How Alcohol Interacts with GLP-1s
GI side effects: GLP-1s slow stomach emptying; alcohol can irritate the stomach. Together they may increase nausea, vomiting, or heartburn—especially after a recent dose change.
Blood sugar: If you also use insulin or sulfonylureas, alcohol can contribute to low blood sugar. Plan food, spacing, and monitoring.
Weight loss: Alcohol calories add up quickly (7 kcal/gram) and lower inhibitions with food. Even “just weekends” can slow progress.
Practical Guidance (When, What, How Much)
Timing: If you’re in dose titration or experiencing side effects, consider skipping alcohol until you stabilize. On maintenance, choose low-symptom days.
Amount: Follow safe drinking guidelines—for most adults, up to 1 standard drink per day for women and 2 for men (not to be “saved” for one night). Less is better for weight loss.
Pace & pair: Sip slowly, pair with protein (not on an empty stomach), and drink water between drinks.
Hydrate: Aim for 2–3 L fluids/day; add electrolytes on travel or hot days.
“Better” and “Not-So-Great” Choices
Lower-calorie options: Dry wine (5 oz), light beer (12 oz), spirits (1.5 oz) with seltzer or diet mixers, hard seltzers with 0–2 g sugar.
Not-so-great: sugary cocktails (margaritas, piña coladas), full-sugar mixers, large craft beers—these stack calories and can worsen nausea and reflux.
Pro tip: Stop at pleasantly relaxed, not “stuffed or queasy.” If you’re starting to feel symptoms, switch to water or herbal tea.
Times to Skip Alcohol Entirely
During or right after a dose increase (highest side-effect days)
If you’ve had recent nausea, vomiting, or reflux
If you need to drive, operate machinery, or have an early training session
If your clinician has advised against alcohol for medical reasons (e.g., pancreatitis history, liver disease, pregnancy)
Red Flags—Contact the Care Team
Persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain (especially with fever), black/tarry stools, signs of low blood sugar (shakiness, confusion) if on other glucose-lowering meds, fainting, or yellowing of skin/eyes. When in doubt, don’t drink and reach out to you can reach us anytime through the Messenger widget in the bottom-left corner or by emailing [email protected].
Quick Decision Checklist
Am I past the titration phase and feeling stable?
Do I have a protein-forward meal planned with my drink?
Can I keep it to 1 drink (or less) and sip slowly?
Do I have water (and possibly electrolytes) on hand?
If I notice nausea or reflux, will I stop and switch to water?