Vomiting on GLP-1: Fixes and Strategies

Putting this together involved looking at a couple of things: the valuable social wisdom that comes from real people, and the findings generated by scientific studies and research data. This material brings those two sources together. And remember, as always talk to your doctor for your personal needs!

Basic Strategies

• Urgent hydration: Small, frequent sips of clear fluids to prevent dehydration

• Medication timing: Take GLP-1 injections at bedtime to sleep through initial effects

• Injection site: Use thigh or arm instead of abdomen to reduce digestive disturbance

• Empty stomach hazard: Never let your stomach remain empty - keep bland snacks available

• Stop-resume eating: Wait 30 minutes after vomiting before eating again

• Food choices: Plain, bland foods like rice, toast, bananas

• Posture: Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after eating

By Severity Level

Occasional Vomiting

• Ice chips: Slowly suck on ice chips when fluids won't stay down

• Electrolyte replacement: Diluted sports drinks or pediatric electrolyte solutions

• Cold compresses: Apply to forehead or back of neck during episodes

• Ginger protocol: Ginger tea, candies, or capsules taken preventatively

• Acupressure: Sea-bands or pressure on P6 point (inner wrist)

• Deep breathing: Practice controlled breathing when feeling nauseated

Recurrent Vomiting

• OTC antiemetics: Non-drowsy Dramamine, Emetrol, Nauzene

• Dose adjustment: Consult doctor about temporary dose reduction

• Clear liquid diet: When actively vomiting, temporarily switch to clear liquids only

• Alcohol pad technique: Sniff alcohol prep pads at first sign of nausea

• Split dosing: Ask doctor about splitting the dose (half dose twice weekly)

• Pre-medication: Take approved anti-nausea medication 30-60 minutes before GLP-1 dose

Severe/Persistent Vomiting

• Medical attention: Seek immediate care for dehydration signs (dark urine, dizziness)

• Prescription antiemetics: Zofran (ondansetron), especially dissolvable tablets

• IV hydration: May be necessary if unable to maintain fluid intake

• Medication pause: Temporary suspension of GLP-1 (only with medical supervision)

• Alternative GLP-1: Discuss switching to different GLP-1 medication with physician

• Rule out complications: Medical evaluation to ensure no other issues like bowel obstruction

Warning Signs (Seek Immediate Medical Care)

• Inability to keep down any fluids for 12+ hours

• Signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dry mouth, little/no urination, dizziness)

• Blood in vomit or stool

• Severe abdominal pain

• Fever with vomiting

• Rapid heartbeat or breathing

Make sure to check out my guide on what causes vomiting and what to eat afterward.

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