Mounjaro and Alcohol

Yes, you can drink alcohol while using Mounjaro (tirzepatide), but it is best to do so in moderation, particularly when starting treatment.

There is no direct interaction between Mounjaro and alcohol, however, heavy drinking is not advised.

Alcohol can worsen common side effects such as nausea and dehydration, add extra calories that may slow weight loss, increase food cravings, and affect blood sugar levels.

For most people, occasional light drinking is safe.

It is important to stay well hydrated, pay attention to how your body responds, and speak with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about drinking while on treatment.

Both Mounjaro and alcohol can affect how your body processes food and regulates blood sugar, so using them together can make certain reactions more likely to occur.

These include:

Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)

Mounjaro and alcohol can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, and the following symptoms may occur:

• Shakiness or trembling
• Sweating
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Feeling hungry or anxious
• Blurred vision
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

This is more likely if you are also taking other diabetes medications, skip meals, or exercise heavily.

Always keep an eye on your symptoms and treat low blood sugar promptly.

Increased side effects

Mounjaro can cause nausea, vomiting and other stomach issues. Alcohol can intensify these side effects.

Dehydration and fatigue

Alcohol is a diuretic, as it makes you urinate more, stopping your body from holding onto water. Combining Mounjaro and alcohol can increase the risk of dehydration and make side effects worse.

Slower weight loss

Alcohol contains extra calories that can work against your weight loss goals and increase cravings for high-calorie foods. Because the body focuses on breaking down alcohol first, it can also slow the process of burning fat.

If you choose to drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro, it’s important to do so safely.

• Empty Calories: Alcohol is high in calories but offers no nutritional value. A pint of beer can have around 180-200 calories, and a glass of wine about 150 – extra energy that the body must burn before fat.
• Slower Fat Burning: The body prioritises breaking down alcohol over fat, which temporarily stops fat burning and reduces weight-loss efficiency.
• Increased Appetite: Alcohol affects blood sugar and hunger hormones, often leading to cravings for high-fat or sugary foods.
• Poor Sleep and Energy: Even small amounts can disturb sleep, leaving you tired and less likely to make healthy choices or exercise.
• Reduced Motivation: Alcohol lowers self-control, making it easier to overeat or skip workouts.

You do not have to give up alcohol completely on Mounjaro, but moderation and timing matter.

Drink slowly, eat beforehand, and always listen to your body.

If you are unsure how alcohol affects you on this medication, speak with your pharmacist or prescriber before drinking.