In the body
Heartburn and reflux
When to get care, and what's known about heartburn, reflux and burping.
Heartburn, reflux and burping are more common on these medicines. Chest pain is a different story, so it comes first.
When to get care
Now
If you have chest pain or tightness that may spread to your arm, neck or jaw, call emergency services now. Don't drive yourself.
The same with strong shortness of breath, cold sweat, or pale or grayish skin. It isn't a side effect of these medicines, but it's an emergency for anyone.
Now
If you vomit blood or something that looks like coffee grounds, or your vomit is green, call emergency services now.
The same for confusion, strong shortness of breath, or sudden, intense belly pain.
Now
If you have strong belly pain that won't go away, sometimes reaching your back, with or without vomiting, get emergency care now.
The labels say to stop the medicine and call your doctor. Heavy drinking is one of the most common causes of pancreatitis: if the pain came after drinking, don't wait it out.
Now
If you have pain in your upper belly with fever, or your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow, get emergency care now.
Pale, clay-colored stools can come with it. These can be gallbladder signs.
Soon
If pain in your upper belly comes and goes, without fever, talk to your doctor in the next few days.
Gallstones are more common with these medicines.
Soon
If you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness that won't go away, or trouble swallowing, talk to your doctor in the next few days.
A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 is a reason the labels give not to use these medicines. Make sure your doctor knows.
What's known
In the large trials, reflux affected about 1 in 20 people on these medicines, roughly twice the rate on placebo. Indigestion affected about 1 in 10, and burping up to about 1 in 12.
These medicines slow down how fast the stomach empties. The tirzepatide label says this effect is strongest after the first dose and lessens over time.
What usually helps
- Smaller meals, eaten slowly
- Not lying down right after eating
- Going easy on greasy, fried or very large meals
- Keeping alcohol to a minimum, since it can make reflux worse
To take to your appointment
- I've had heartburn most days since I started. Is there anything we should look at?
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