Does Ozempic Cause Heartburn?

Ozempic, a GLP-1 medication commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management, has gained widespread attention for its effectiveness, but not without side effects. As more people begin using Ozempic, questions about its potential impact on digestive health have surfaced. One concern is whether Ozempic can cause heartburn, a condition marked by a burning sensation in the chest and an acidic taste in the mouth. While gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting are well-documented, heartburn is less frequently discussed.

If you have concerns about heartburn while taking Ozempic, here is everything to know about this side effect and its possible treatments.

What is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a fairly common experience in adults. It’s characterized by a burning pain in the chest that occurs after eating, and it can become worse while lying down or bending over. Heartburn may also include a bitter or acidic taste in the mouth.

This sensation is caused by stomach acid traveling back up into the esophagus. Normally, a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter acts as a valve that closes tightly after food passes into the stomach. When this valve relaxes or weakens, acid can escape from the stomach and irritate the lining of the esophagus, leading to that familiar burning feeling known as heartburn. Certain habits or foods can be responsible for triggering heartburn. Repeated exposure to stomach acid can damage the stomach lining and the esophagus.

Certain foods and lifestyle habits can increase the likelihood of experiencing heartburn. Spicy meals, fatty foods, fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, and even stress are common triggers. Eating large meals or lying down soon after eating can also contribute to symptoms. Making lifestyle changes, such as dietary adjustments and sleep positioning, can help prevent or reduce heartburn. While occasional heartburn is generally not a cause for concern, frequent episodes (especially those that interfere with daily life) may indicate a more serious condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Does Ozempic Cause Heartburn?

While heartburn is not listed as one of the most common side effects of Ozempic, it has been reported by some users. Ozempic-induced heartburn is a recognized side effect, often presenting as a burning sensation in the chest or throat, and typically occurs early in treatment due to changes in gastric function. The medication primarily affects the gastrointestinal system, and many patients experience symptoms such as nausea, bloating, or slowed digestion, which can indirectly contribute to heartburn.

Ozempic works by slowing digestion, which helps regulate appetite and blood sugar but can also increase stomach pressure and lead to acid reflux. Although not everyone taking Ozempic will experience heartburn, it’s worth noting that changes in how your stomach empties can contribute to acid reflux. Clinical trials have documented gastrointestinal side effects, including heartburn, in patients taking Ozempic.

How Ozempic Can Cause Heartburn

Ozempic works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which helps regulate blood sugar by slowing down digestion, increasing insulin release, and reducing appetite. This slowing digestion delays stomach emptying, which can increase the risk of heartburn by causing increased pressure in the stomach. While these effects are beneficial for managing diabetes and supporting weight loss, the delayed gastric emptying can sometimes lead to unwanted gastrointestinal symptoms, including heartburn.

Here’s how it works:

• Delayed Stomach Emptying: One of Ozempic’s known side effects is gastroparesis, or slowed stomach emptying. This means food stays in the stomach longer, increasing the chance of acid backing up into the esophagus. When digestion is slowed, the stomach produces acid to help break down food, and this acid can more easily reflux into the esophagus.
• Increased Abdominal Pressure: The buildup of food and gas in the stomach may create increased pressure, pushing acid upward.
• Nausea and Burping: These side effects, common with Ozempic, can coincide with reflux symptoms, leading to discomfort that resembles or includes heartburn.
• Changes in Eating Patterns: Ozempic often suppresses appetite, and irregular eating habits or skipping meals can also trigger acid production and reflux.

It’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to medications, and what causes side effects in one person may not affect another. However, if you’re experiencing persistent or severe heartburn while taking Ozempic, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider.

4 Ways to Avoid Heartburn While Taking Ozempic

There are multiple strategies you can employ to lessen the effects or even prevent heartburn while taking Ozempic. Making lifestyle changes is especially important, as they can help manage heartburn and alleviate heartburn symptoms. These strategies include

1. Avoid Foods that Trigger Heartburn

Certain foods are well-known for relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter or increasing stomach acid production, both of which can contribute to heartburn. While triggers vary by person, common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, fried foods, fatty foods, caffeine, and carbonated beverages. Fried foods are a major contributor, as they can increase acid production and worsen heartburn symptoms. Try keeping a food diary to help identify your specific triggers and avoid those foods whenever possible.

2. Avoid Lying Down After Eating

Lying down too soon after a meal makes it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. To prevent this, aim to stay upright for at least two to three hours after eating. This is especially important after dinner or your last meal of the day. If you need to rest, consider reclining with your upper body elevated on pillows or using a wedge pillow to reduce acid reflux.

Additionally, sleeping on your left side can help prevent stomach acid from rising into the esophagus. This position is recommended because it can prevent stomach acid from refluxing and making reflux worse at night.

3. Wear Loose Clothing

Wearing tight clothing, especially around the waist, can put pressure on your abdomen and stomach, increasing abdominal pressure and triggering heartburn by pushing acid upward into the esophagus. To minimize this risk, opt for looser-fitting garments that don’t constrict your midsection. This simple adjustment can significantly reduce heartburn symptoms for some people.

4. Drink More Water

Staying hydrated can help dilute stomach acid and support overall digestive health. Drinking a glass of water after meals may help wash down acid that has entered the esophagus. However, avoid drinking large amounts of water quickly during meals, as this may lead to bloating and pressure on the stomach. Sipping water throughout the day is a better approach for most people.

3 Ways to Treat Heartburn While Taking Ozempic

If you’re experiencing heartburn while on Ozempic, there are several safe and effective ways to manage it. Whether your symptoms are occasional or more persistent, the following treatment options can help reduce discomfort and improve your quality of life without interfering with the benefits of Ozempic.

It’s important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan for managing heartburn, especially if you have frequent heartburn. This ensures that your approach is tailored to your needs and that you can safely address symptoms while continuing your medication.

1. Use Over-the-Counter Antacids

Antacids like Tums, Rolaids, or Maalox can provide immediate relief for heartburn symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid. These over the counter medications typically start working in about an hour and provide relief for a short duration, usually lasting about an hour.

Other OTC medications, such as H2 blockers like Pepcid AC, are also available and can provide longer-lasting relief by reducing stomach acid production. While these OTC medications can provide relief, they should be used as directed and in consultation with your healthcare provider.

Antacids are generally safe to use occasionally while taking Ozempic, but they don’t address the underlying cause of heartburn and should not be used excessively. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the label and consult your healthcare provider if you’re using antacids frequently.

2. Eat Smaller, Slower Meals

Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent heartburn by reducing stomach pressure, especially when digestion is slowed by Ozempic. Try eating smaller portions and chewing your food thoroughly. Eating more slowly is important, as it allows your stomach time to signal fullness and helps relieve heartburn symptoms by preventing overeating, a common trigger for reflux. These strategies can relieve heartburn by minimizing acid reflux and reducing discomfort.

3. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

If your heartburn tends to flare up at night, try elevating the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches. This position helps keep stomach acid from rising into the esophagus while you sleep. You can also use a wedge pillow to prop yourself up. Simply adding extra pillows under your head won’t be as effective, as it can bend your body in a way that increases pressure on the stomach.

For longer lasting relief from heartburn symptoms, medications such as H2 blockers (like cimetidine, famotidine, and nizatidine) and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be recommended. H2 blockers and PPIs work by reducing stomach acid production, providing extended relief compared to antacids, and are often used to manage persistent or nighttime heartburn.

Ozempic & Heartburn FAQ

Is Heartburn From Ozempic Temporary?

In many cases, yes. Heartburn or acidic reflux symptoms may be more pronounced during the initial weeks when your body is adjusting. Over time, as your digestive system adapts to the slowed gastric motility, symptoms may lessen. If heartburn persists beyond a few months, it’s a good idea to check with your provider.

How Common is Heartburn Among People Taking Ozempic?

In clinical trials, patients taking Ozempic reported experiences of heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD-like symptoms, with about 1 % to 2 % of users affected. However, observational studies of GLP‑1 medications suggest a somewhat higher relative risk for GERD when compared with other diabetes drugs.

When Should You Talk to a Doctor About Your Heartburn?

You should consult your provider if you experience any of the following:

• Heartburn that lasts more than 2 to 3 weeks
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vomiting of blood or black material
• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent nausea or vomiting (especially given Ozempic’s GI effects)

These could signal complications like esophageal damage, ulceration, or other serious GI issues.

Get the Most From Ozempic Without Heartburn

While Ozempic is highly effective for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss, it can come with digestive side effects, including occasional heartburn. Understanding how the medication affects your digestive system and adopting simple lifestyle strategies can make a big difference in reducing discomfort. If symptoms persist, there are safe treatments available, and it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Do you need help managing your symptoms or adjusting your diet while on Ozempic? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Sign up today to speak with a registered dietitian at no cost to you. Get expert, personalized advice to support your health journey and feel your best while using Ozempic.