Mounjaro Diarrhoea: Is it common & how can I manage it?

In this article, we’ll look at whether diarrhoea is a common side effect of Mounjaro and what you can expect if it occurs. We’ll discuss when diarrhoea is most likely to happen, whether it tends to get better on its own and practical steps you can take to manage it effectively. We’ll also explain when it’s important to speak to your doctor if you’re concerned about diarrhoea while using Mounjaro.

Mounjaro is a specialised weight loss medication that is self-administered once a week. It helps you to lose weight by influencing your appetite to make it easier to consume less calories. Mounjaro works best when used alongside a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about diarrhoea and Mounjaro:

• While not everyone will experience it, diarrhoea is one of the most frequently reported side effects when using Mounjaro.

• The likelihood of diarrhoea increases when you first start Mounjaro or when your dose is adjusted.

• For most people, diarrhoea from Mounjaro goes away within a few days as the body builds tolerance.

• You can manage Mounjaro-induced diarrhoea by staying hydrated, avoiding certain foods and drinks, eating smaller meals, taking over-the-counter medication (with approval), getting rest and using pain relievers if necessary.

• If your diarrhoea lasts for several days, you’re unable to keep fluids down, the diarrhoea contains blood, or you experience severe abdominal pain, it’s important to speak to your doctor for advice.

Is diarrhoea a common side effect of Mounjaro?

Yes, diarrhoea is listed as a common side effect of Mounjaro [1]. As with all other medications, some users may experience side effects when they are using Mounjaro. Some side effects are more common than others. The most common side effects of Mounjaro include:

• Diarrhoea

• Nausea

• Reduced appetite

• Abdominal pain

It is important to note that side effects will vary from person to person. Just because diarrhoea is listed as a common side effect does not mean that you are going to experience it. Being aware of potential side effects is important as it helps you to know what to expect when using a new medication.

When is diarrhoea most likely to occur during Mounjaro treatment?

Diarrhoea is most likely to occur during the early stages of Mounjaro use, especially as your body adjusts to the medication. Many people experience gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhoea when starting a new medication, particularly those affecting hormones involved in digestion [1]. 

The likelihood of diarrhoea may also be more likely as your dosage increases as your system adapts to the changes. Diarrhoea often settles over time as your body gets used to the treatment.

Will diarrhoea from Mounjaro go away on its own?

Diarrhoea caused by Mounjaro typically gets better within a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. Most people find that side effects ease over time as they build tolerance to each dose. If your diarrhoea persists for an extended period or becomes severe it’s important to stay hydrated and consult a doctor for further advice.

How can I manage Mounjaro-induced diarrhoea?

If you are experiencing diarrhoea whilst you are using Mounjaro there are some ways that you can manage it. Below are different things you can do to try and ease Mounjaro-induced diarrhoea. If your diarrhoea persists or is severe then it is important to stay hydrated and consult with your doctor.

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you're experiencing diarrhoea. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration and supports your body in managing the side effects more effectively.

Avoid fatty foods, spicy foods and high-fibre foods

These types of foods can irritate your digestive system and may worsen diarrhoea. It’s best to stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like plain rice, toast and bananas until your symptoms improve.

Avoid caffeine, soft drinks and alcohol

Caffeine, sugary soft drinks and alcohol can all worsen diarrhoea and irritate the stomach. It’s best to avoid these while you’re managing Mounjaro-induced side effects.

Eat regular smaller meals

Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help reduce stress on your digestive system, preventing overeating and allowing your stomach to process food more easily.

Take over-the-counter medicine (if approved by your pharmacist)

If approved by your pharmacist or healthcare provider, you may consider using over-the-counter medications like loperamide to help manage diarrhoea. Always check for approval before taking any medication.

Get plenty of rest

Your body needs time to recover, so make sure to get enough rest. Taking it easy helps your system to focus on adjusting to the medication and helps you feel better faster.

Take pain relievers like paracetamol

If you experience abdominal discomfort taking a mild pain reliever such as paracetamol can help ease the pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

When should I speak to my doctor if I'm concerned about diarrhoea from my Mounjaro treatment?

If you find that your diarrhoea persists for several days without getting better it’s important to speak with your doctor. Prolonged symptoms could indicate that your body is not adjusting to Mounjaro as expected.

Another sign that you should consult your doctor is if you are unable to take in any fluids. Severe diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, and if you’re struggling to keep fluids down, it’s crucial to get medical advice to prevent further complications.

If you notice that your diarrhoea contains blood, this could indicate a serious issue. You should contact your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation if this is the case.

If your stomach issues become severe or cause significant discomfort, it’s important to get medical help. Intense abdominal pain or distress can be a sign that something more serious is happening and your doctor will be able to provide guidance on the next steps to take.

Sources

[1] How long do Mounjaro side effects last? | UK Meds

Further Reading

MHRA authorises diabetes drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management and weight loss - GOV.UK

Mounjaro Side Effects - WebMD

Mounjaro side effects you need to be aware of - drugs.com