GLP-1s & Alcohol: What You Need to Know Before You Drink

GLP-1 receptor agonists, called semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza) which are commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and can help patients to lose weight. These drugs make use of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist to reduce the quantity of food taken, lower the speed at which stomach contents enter the small intestines, and increase insulin production in the body. Alcohol consumption is not uncommon among GLP-1 users. However, incorporating alcohol into the story raises a lot of questions.

If you're wondering about the effects of alcohol on GLP-1 or whether occasional drinking is safe, here's what you need to know.

How GLP-1 Medications Work

Exenatide, also known as GLP-1 receptor agonist, reduces blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin release and suppressing glucagon release, and delaying gastric emptying time. These also help to favour better glycemic control and to reduce appetite and this is why the said medications are prescribed for the treatment of obesity in non-diabetic clients.

Effects of Alcohol on GLP-1 Medications

Understanding the effects of alcohol is very important, knowing the impact of alcohol on the GLP-1 medications so that one can manage their health as well as their lifestyle should they choose to indulge in drinking. There is no chemical affinity between alcohol and GLP-1 drugs, however, both of them similarly affect the body, particularly regarding the levels of glucose, the digestive system, and the metabolic system in the human body. 

Such cross-interaction leads to the possibility of side effects of combining the drugs or complications that arise from the use of two different drugs simultaneously.

GLP-1 and Alcohol Interaction: What You Should Know

The GLP-1 and alcohol interaction doesn't typically trigger dangerous reactions in the body. However, combining them can increase your chances of experiencing certain side effects:

1. Risk of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia)

Although GLP-1s independently lead to a low blood glucose level only if combined with insulin or sulfonylurea, alcohol impairs the release of glucose by the liver. Although GLP-1s independently don’t usually cause hypoglycaemia, when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas—common diabetes medications—the risk increases. Adding alcohol to this mix, especially on an empty stomach, can further heighten the chance of low blood sugar

2. Nausea and Gastrointestinal Discomfort

It is noteworthy that GLP-1 medications slow down gastric emptying and bring about nausea. Alcohol, particularly in excess, can further worsen your gastrointestinal tract, and they are proven to exacerbate most of the conditions that it influences. Alone, they may make the symptoms severe, such as swelling, vomiting, or even acid reflux.

3. Alcohol Tolerance on GLP-1

It is assessed that many patients feel very different levels of alcohol tolerance on GLP-1. This could be attributed to such factors as slow gastric emptying or a change in metabolism rate. Whereas it would not have been strange to take one or two drinks when the option presented itself, individuals on GLP-1s might get tipsy much sooner or with lesser quantities.

How Much Alcohol is Safe on GLP-1?

A typical question that may be asked, for instance, is how much alcohol is safe on GLP-1. In the CDC RDT approach, the guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) explain the capacity for both men and women. The following are:

• Up to one drink per day for women

• Up to two drinks per day for men

However, everyone reacts differently. Avoid it for the first few days, then consult your doctor about the appropriate duration of abstinence to build tolerance to the drug.

Tips for Drinking Responsibly While Taking GLP-1s

In case you are using any of the GLP-1 medications and you want to consume alcohol, then there are certain things you should follow. Some of the best practices that you should take of are as follows:

• Do Not Drink: Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach sets many complications that include nausea, low blood sugar levels, among others.

• Avoid Sweetened Mixers: this means that any mixers you drink may increase your blood sugar and you keep adding calories that are not useful.

• Monitor Symptoms: Check yourself for signs of change. Those with problems such as discomfort or dizziness it is recommended to stop drinking it.

Conclusion

There are no specific instructions that recommend avoiding alcohol consumption while being on GLP-1 drugs, but there are some guidelines that one should follow. The effect of alcohol on GLP-1 may be based on your overall health conditions, the particular dosage of the drug, as well as the extent of your alcohol consumption. 

The positive aspect of moderate alcohol consumption is usually safe for your treatment. Interested in how it affects GLP-1 medications? Always follow the guidance from Body Good Studio for the best outcomes.

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