Why Electrolytes Are Essential for Wegovy & Mounjaro Users

Weight-loss medications such as Wegovy and Mounjaro are a game-changer for people who have not responded to diet changes and exercise as a means to lose weight. They work by suppressing the appetite and slowing down the digestive process, and are regarded as a safe and effective alternative to invasive weight-loss surgery. 


However, even when taken under clinical supervision, weight-loss drugs can cause side effects, including nausea, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. This is why clinicians recommend that Mounjaro and Wegovy users should proactively manage their fluid balance through regular water intake and electrolyte supplements such as O.R.S hydration tablets.


Why Dehydration And Electrolyte Loss Happen

Wegovy and Mounjaro have different formulations, but they both work on the same principle: by imitating a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is produced by the intestines after eating, signalling to the body that we are full. 


This means that individuals want to eat and drink less than usual, increasing their risk of dehydration and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Additionally, common side effects of weight loss drugs are nausea, vomiting, and increased urination, which can further contribute to dehydration and electrolyte loss


Why Do Electrolytes Matter?

Electrolytes are essential vitamins and minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which keep the body’s cells, nerves and muscle fibres functioning properly. They also help the body to maintain the correct fluid balance, heart rate and blood pressure. 


When levels are depleted, it can increase the risk of nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, brain fog, lack of energy and fatigue. Electrolytes also help the body to regain fluid balance more quickly after an episode of dehydration, which can help to counter the side effects of weight-loss drugs, such as nausea, sluggish digestion and reduced fluid intake.


This is why clinicians recommend that anyone taking medications such as Mounjaro and Wegovy should carefully manage their electrolyte levels. ORS tablets have been scientifically formulated to provide the correct amount of mineral supplementation, supporting the body’s essential functions. 


Tips For Staying Hydrated When Taking Wegovy or Mounjaro

 

Drink At Regular Intervals

The most effective way to stay well hydrated is to drink smaller amounts of fluids at regular intervals, rather than waiting until you are really thirsty and then drinking a large volume at once. The body isn’t able to make the most effective use of sudden influxes of water, and the majority of it will be processed as urine. 


If you find that weight-loss drugs have reduced your thirst levels and you are forgetting to drink as much as you previously did, set reminders on your phone and keep a portable water bottle with you at all times. You can dissolve an O.R.S rehydration tablet into your water to boost its effectiveness. 


Match Fluid Intake To Your Activity And Environment

When we are in a warm environment or undertaking strenuous physical activity such as a gym workout, our bodies sweat in an effort to cool down. Electrolytes are transported in the bodily fluids such as sweat, meaning that both fluids and minerals are lost. Therefore match your fluid intake to physical exertion levels and the external temperature. 


Adding an electrolyte supplement to a glass of water before and after an exercise session can help you to stay energized and reduce the risk of muscle cramps, light-headedness and fatigue. 


Can Electrolytes Reduce Wegovy Side Effects?

As we have seen, the electrolyte balance in the body is closely related to fluid and nutritional intake, which can both be depleted by weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy. This can make the side effects such as nausea, dry mouth and dizziness worse. Therefore, electrolyte supplements are recommended to counter these side effects.