Does Ozempic Cause Heartburn?

Many people iike Elaine begin their health journey with Virta Health because they want to address their diabetes and weight concerns without relying solely on medications, like Ozempic or other GLP-1s, that can come with uncomfortable side effects.

In fact, one of the most commonly reported GLP-1 side effects are digestive issues. Take so-called “Ozempic heartburn” as an example. This term is often used by people to refer to a burning sensation in the chest that can make eating and sleeping uncomfortable after taking Ozempic or another GLP-1.

But is heartburn a side effect of Ozempic and other GLP-1s? Here's what you need to know about Ozempic heartburn and how to manage it effectively.

Does Ozempic cause heartburn?

Is it normal to have heartburn on semaglutide? Unfortunately yes; heartburn is a documented potential side effect of Ozempic and other semaglutide medications. 

While not everyone experiences this side effect, studies show that gastrointestinal symptoms—including heartburn—are among the most frequently reported side effects when people start taking GLP-1s. 

How long do GI symptoms last with Ozempic? The severity of this side effect can range from mild discomfort to more persistent burning that affects daily activities. It can also be a temporary issue or something consistent.

Why Ozempic might trigger heartburn

Understanding why GLP-1s like Ozempic (semaglutide) might cause GI symptoms, including heartburn, can help better manage the symptoms and make strategic choices about your help. Several factors contribute to this semaglutide side effect:

Delayed stomach emptying: Some people experience delayed gastric emptying when using Ozempic. This can cause food and stomach acid to remain in your stomach longer, increasing the likelihood of acid reflux and heartburn.

Relaxation of lower esophageal sphincter: Some medications and GLP-1s can affect the lower esophageal sphincter, causing it to relax more than usual. Because of this stomach acid may flow back up into the esophagus, in this case, causing semaglutide heartburn.

Diet changes or weight loss: You might find yourself eating differently on Ozempic. Maybe you’re eating larger meals less frequently, or altogether eating different types of foods. This could lead to Ozempic heartburn. Additionally, rapid weight loss itself can sometimes increase stomach acid production.

Several lifestyle factors can worsen semaglutide heartburn. For example, lying down too soon after taking your injection or after eating meals or poor meal timing in relation to your injection schedule may significantly increase the potential you’ll experience heartburn. Dietary choices may also naturally increase acid production. 

How to manage heartburn while taking Ozempic

If you're dealing with Ozempic heartburn, several strategies can help reduce your discomfort:

1. Adjust your eating habits

Try eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions, which can put less pressure on your digestive system. Avoid trigger foods like spicy, acidic or fatty choices that are known to worsen heartburn. Chewing your food thoroughly and eating slowly can also help your digestive system process meals more effectively.

2. Consider your meal timing

Pay attention to when semaglutide heartburn occurs in relation to your meals and injection timing, as this can help you identify patterns. Many people find that eating their largest meal earlier in the day, when digestion tends to be more efficient, can reduce evening heartburn episodes. Additionally, stop eating at least two to three hours before bedtime to give your stomach time to empty before lying down. 

3. Stay upright after eating or taking medicine

Remaining sitting or standing for at least 30 minutes after meals will help prevent Ozempic heartburn. Doing this allows gravity to assist with digestion and prevents acid from flowing back up into your esophagus. However, if it is necessary  to lie down, make sure to prop yourself up with pillows to keep your upper body elevated. 

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps with overall digestion, and it will also help with Ozempic heartburn. Just make sure to avoid drinking large amounts of liquid with meals, which can dilute digestive acids and slow the digestion process. 

Another option to water are herbal teas like ginger or chamomile, as both have been known to help relieve gastrointestinal issues. 

What to ask your doctor about Ozempic heartburn

It’s important to make informed choices if you’re on Ozempic or considering using it to help with diabetes or weight loss. Here is a list of questions you can ask your doctor if you’re worried about semaglutide heartburn:

• Knowing my medical history, do you think I’ll experience Ozempic heartburn?
• How long do GI symptoms last with Ozempic?
• Should I lower my Ozempic dose if I experience heartburn?
• Are there alternative GLP-1’s with fewer gastrointestinal side effects?
• Can I take Tums while on semaglutide?

The Takeaway

If you're experiencing uncomfortable side effects from GLP-1 medications and want to explore a different approach to managing your diabetes and weight loss, Virta Health may be able to help. Our comprehensive support system focuses on lifestyle modifications that can help you regain control of your health without the digestive discomfort from medications like Ozempic. See if you’re eligible for Virta Health here.