Heartburn on Wegovy, Ozempic or Zepbound? Here is why reflux happens on GLP-1s, what helps, and which symptoms mean you should call.
When your stomach empties more slowly, it stays fuller for longer, which puts pressure on the valve at the top of the stomach.
| Try | Why |
|---|---|
| Smaller meals | Less pressure on the stomach |
| Eat 3 hours before bed | Less in your stomach when you lie down |
| Raise the head of your bed | Gravity keeps acid down |
| Go easy on trigger foods | Fatty food, spicy food, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, citrus |
| Don’t lie down after eating | Stay upright for a while |
| Loose waistbands | Less pressure on your stomach |
Antacids and other over-the-counter reflux medicines are widely used. Ask your pharmacist which is right for you, and whether any affect your other medicines — it matters more than usual on a GLP-1, because slowed stomach emptying already affects how other things you swallow are absorbed.
Paula, 53, woke with heartburn most nights on Wegovy. She moved dinner to 6 pm, added a wedge pillow, and cut back on late-night wine. Within two weeks, most nights were heartburn-free.
It’s a known side effect for some people. Tell your prescriber if it’s frequent.
Many people do. Check with your pharmacist about timing with other medicines.
Only your prescriber can decide. Mention it at your next check-in.