Managing booze on weight loss drugs
Robert Price | Last update: 1st May 2025
If you’re on weight loss drugs you may have noticed a shift in how your body reacts to booze. For some, the thought of a glass of wine or a pint feels less appealing, while others find the effects of alcohol hit harder than before. Whether you’re looking to reduce your intake or avoid alcohol altogether, here’s how to navigate these changes while keeping your social life and well-being intact.
Why does alcohol feel different?
Weight loss drugs work by altering hunger signals and slowing digestion, which can also impact how alcohol is metabolised in your body. Common experiences include:
- Feeling tipsy much faster, even with smaller amounts of alcohol.
- Worsened side effects like nausea or dizziness.
- Reduced cravings for alcohol, as overall appetite decreases.
Top Tip: If you do choose to drink, start with a smaller amount and see how your body responds before having more.
Read more on side effects of weight loss drugs here The most common side effects of weight-loss drugs and how to deal with them
Ways to avoid alcohol
Whether you’re taking a break or cutting alcohol out completely, it’s helpful to have a plan. Here are some simple strategies:
- Opt for mocktails: Many bars now offer creative alcohol-free cocktails. They look and feel like alcoholic ones but without the side effects.
- Bring your own: If you’re heading to a house party or family event, take sparkling water, flavoured sodas, or non-alcoholic beer.
- Practice your response: If you’re worried about being questioned, try a simple “I’m not drinking tonight”. Most people won’t pry further.
One SlimrChat user shared: “I used to feel awkward saying no to drinks at events as I have always been a big drinker but he truth is that it has lost it’s appeal and when I have had a drink I know that I will not lose any weight so its self-defeating. The fact is that as much as I feel self-conscious not drinking no one bats an eye once you tell people.”
Top Tip: Focus on the occasion, not the drink. Engaging in conversations or enjoying the music can shift the focus away from what’s in your glass.
Managing social pressures
Drinking is often ingrained in social settings, making it challenging to say no. Here’s how to manage:
- Suggest alcohol-free outings: Coffee dates, hiking, or a trip to the cinema can be just as enjoyable.
- Enlist support: Let close friends or family know about your decision to avoid alcohol so they can support you.
- Keep it light: A touch of humour can diffuse any tension. For example, “I’m in training for my new health goals — water’s my secret weapon!”
Top Tip: Remember, it’s your journey. True friends will respect your choices, and those who don’t may not need to be front and centre in your life. Alcohol can be be high in calories so the fact is that if you do drink you won’t lose as much weight and progress will be slower.
Benefits of cutting back
While weight loss is a key goal of the medications, reducing alcohol intake comes with additional perks:
- Improved sleep quality.
- More stable energy levels.
- Lower calorie consumption.
- Enhanced mental clarity and focus.
Top Tip: Track these benefits in a journal or app. Seeing your progress reinforces your decision to drink less.
Getting through celebrations without alcohol
Big celebrations often come with a toast, but you can still join in without the booze. Here’s how:
- Have a go-to non-alcoholic drink: Sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice can look just as celebratory in a fancy glass.
- Offer to be the designated driver: It’s a practical way to avoid drinking and earns you extra appreciation from friends.
Top Tip: Focus on the people and the memories you’re creating. Celebrations are about connection, not the contents of your glass.
Discover more in this article from The Guardian and from SlimrChat in What to be mindful of if you’re taking GLP-1 weight loss treatment
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