Skip to main content

Other weight-loss treatments, antibiotics and alcohol: what to check before use

Overview

Other weight-loss treatments, medicines and alcohol may affect how you respond to Mounjaro® or Wegovy®.

This article explains what to consider before:

  • Using another weight-loss treatment

  • Taking antibiotics

  • Drinking alcohol

Always tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements and treatments you use.


Can I use another weight-loss treatment at the same time?

Mounjaro® and Wegovy® are generally intended to be used as individual weight-loss treatments alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Do not combine an injectable weight-loss treatment with another weight-loss medicine unless a qualified prescriber has specifically instructed you to do so.

This includes:

  • Another injectable weight-loss treatment

  • Weight-loss tablets

  • Medicines that affect appetite

  • Weight-loss supplements or herbal products

  • Weight-loss treatment obtained from another provider

Using multiple weight-loss treatments at the same time may increase the risk of side effects and may not be clinically appropriate.

Tell your prescriber about every medicine, supplement and weight-loss treatment you use. They will assess what is safe and suitable based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

Do not start, stop or combine weight-loss treatments without clinical guidance.


Can I take antibiotics during treatment?

Tell the doctor or pharmacist prescribing your antibiotics that you are using Mounjaro® or Wegovy®.

Antibiotics and the illness being treated can sometimes cause digestive symptoms. These may overlap with common side effects of weight-loss injections, including:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Reduced appetite

Follow the instructions provided with your antibiotic and drink enough fluids unless a healthcare professional has advised you otherwise.

Ask your doctor, pharmacist or prescriber for advice if:

  • You are unsure whether to administer your next injection

  • You cannot eat or drink normally

  • Vomiting or diarrhoea continues

  • Your symptoms become worse

  • You are concerned about a possible interaction

Do not stop taking prescribed antibiotics without speaking to a healthcare professional.


Can I drink alcohol during treatment?

There is not necessarily a complete restriction on drinking alcohol while using Mounjaro® or Wegovy®. However, alcohol may worsen side effects such as:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Indigestion or heartburn

  • Dizziness

  • Dehydration

Alcohol also contains calories and may make it more difficult to achieve your weight-management goals.

Consider avoiding alcohol if you are experiencing side effects or cannot eat and drink normally.

Ask your doctor, pharmacist or prescriber for individual guidance, particularly if you have diabetes or use medicines that affect your blood-sugar levels.


When should I seek urgent medical help?

Call the emergency services on 112 or attend an emergency department if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat

  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain

  • Severe vomiting or an inability to keep fluids down

  • Fainting, confusion or significantly reduced consciousness

  • Signs of severe dehydration

Do not wait for a routine response if your symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening.


Key takeaway

Do not combine weight-loss treatments unless a qualified prescriber has specifically advised you to do so.

Tell healthcare professionals that you use Mounjaro® or Wegovy® before starting antibiotics or other medicines.

Alcohol may worsen digestive side effects and dehydration, so consider avoiding it if you feel unwell.


Additional Assistance

If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.

Did this answer your question?