6 days Ago By [email protected] (Steven Smith)
Weight loss medications remain incredibly popular and show no signs of slowing down. For those taking treatments over Christmas , there can be many unanswered questions about how to travel and use it safely. That’s why Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has answered these queries, revealing his guide to using Mounjaro and similar jabs over the festive period.
Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy said: “Christmas is upon us and for individuals taking treatment such as Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro for weight loss , it’s important to understand how to manage the medication correctly throughout the festive season." It must be noted that Ozempic is not currently licensed in the UK as a weight loss medication - it is a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy and Mounjaro are licensed for weight loss in the UK.
Can you drink alcohol on weight loss medication? Dr Grant said: “For many weight loss medications, there are no known interactions between the treatment and alcohol. However, alcohol consumption can affect blood sugar levels and is a significant source of calories. Therefore, excessive drinking could limit progress and may also increase the intensity of side effects such as nausea.
"Excessive alcohol intake has been linked with pancreatitis, an extreme side effect of weight loss medication, therefore remaining within recommended alcohol guidelines is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Despite this, moderate drinking over the festive period is generally safe, but people should monitor intake and keep in mind that drinking may interfere with the effectiveness of weight loss medication." Travelling with weight loss medication Dr Grant said: “Medications such as Mounjaro should be kept refrigerated, so if you’re going away over the Christmas break, you’ll need to think about how you travel and store your medication.
This treatment should be stored in a refrigerator (2C to 8C), but can also be left unrefrigerated (so long as it is not above 30C) for up to 30 days. If it has been longer than 30 days since it reached more than 8C, or it has reached over 30C, you must throw it away. “If you’re travelling by plane, you should pack your Mounjaro in your hand luggage and declare it at security.
I recommend travelling with it in its original packaging with the prescription label attached, and with your patient information leaflet in case you need to refer to it while you are away." Festive foods to avoid on weight loss medication Dr Grant said: “It’s important to limit sugary snacks such as mince pies and chocolates, as tempting as they may be. These foods can instigate blood sugar level spikes and are high in calories, so it’s best to avoid overindulging in these festive treats.
“On weight loss medications, around 30% of the fat you eat passes through your stomach undigested. However, this doesn’t decrease your total calorie intake, so you still need to be mindful of this when taking weight loss pills. “Additionally, greasy foods and high-fat meals should be avoided as they may increase side effects like diarrhoea and cause bloating.
Instead, I recommend prioritising whole grains, lean proteins and low-glycemic fruits and vegetables, these three food types can provide long-lasting energy without impacting blood sugar levels." Manage portion sizes carefully Dr Grant said: “I also suggest that those on weight loss medication avoid large meals and instead eat smaller plates, more frequently. This can help manage weight gain over Christmas and avoid overindulging.
It’s important to strictly manage portion sizes and practice mindful eating, helping negate any unnecessary weight gain. “Create and stick to a regular meal plan, this can be a great way of managing food intake. It doesn’t mean people have to miss out on meals - but limiting portions is a great way of maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
" The best time to take weight loss medication over Christmas Dr Grant said: “During the festive season, people should avoid altering the time they take the weight loss medication and retain a regular schedule. If people pause their treatment over Christmas, not only will this cause appetite to return and people may consume more calories than usual and gain weight, but when they restart treatment after an extended break, they’re generally recommended to start back on the lowest dose. “Therefore, to avoid stunting progress, maintain a clear and regular schedule, taking treatment at the same period each day, despite changes in routine due to Christmas plans.
“Overall, by sticking to their GP’s advice and being mindful of overindulging in the wrong foods or alcohol, people can remain safe while taking weight loss medication throughout the festive period. Should individuals experience any extreme side effects, I strongly advise that they seek medical attention immediately.” Dr Grant qualified as a Doctor in Bristol in 1985.
He has wide clinical experience as a GP in and around Bristol..
