Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) and diarrhoea: causes, tips and when to get help
Diarrhoea on Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic): why it happens, self-care measures and the warning signs that need medical help.
Get urgent medical help if:
- you have signs of severe dehydration, such as confusion, fainting or passing very little urine
Call 999 or go to A&E in an emergency. For urgent advice, call NHS 111.
About diarrhoea on Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic)
Loose or more frequent stools are commonly reported with GLP-1 medicines and usually improve as the body adjusts. Persistent diarrhoea can cause dehydration.
Diarrhoea is listed among the commonly reported side effects of Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) in our reference data.
Things that may help
- Drink plenty of fluids to replace what you lose
- Eat smaller meals and limit very fatty or spicy foods
- Ask a pharmacist about oral rehydration sachets
A pharmacist can advise on suitable over-the-counter options.
Speak to your prescriber if
- diarrhoea lasts more than a few days or is severe
- you notice blood in your stools
- you take oral contraception or other medicines whose absorption could be affected
Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. Reports help the MHRA monitor the safety of medicines.