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Ozempic sulfur burps and diarrhea: Causes and treatment

Of the people taking Ozempic, about around 3% of people taking it experience sulfur burps, and 9% experience diarrhea
Gerardo Sison medical writer headshot
By | Nov. 12, 2024
A torso of a person holding their belly: Ozempic sulfur burps and diarrhea

Key takeaways

  • Sulfur burps and diarrhea are potential side effects of Ozempic, often linked to changes in digestion.

  • Staying hydrated, eating smaller meals, and avoiding sulfur-rich foods may help manage these symptoms.

  • Starting with a lower dose or adjusting the dosage with a healthcare provider may reduce digestive discomfort.

  • Consult a healthcare provider if severe diarrhea, stomach pain, or other serious side effects persist while on Ozempic.

In this article:

Starting a new medication can sometimes lead to unexpected side effects. For some people taking Ozempic (semaglutide), that might mean dealing with sulfur burps and diarrhea. These side effects can arise because Ozempic changes how fast food moves through your stomach and intestines, leading to the unpleasant smell of sulfur burps and more trips to the bathroom. 

There are different ways you can manage these side effects and make them less bothersome. For example, changing your diet by avoiding foods high in sulfur, like eggs and cheese, might help reduce sulfur burps. In most cases, you should consult a healthcare professional about ongoing stomach problems. 

Read on to learn more about Ozempic sulfur burps and diarrhea and how to manage these side effects. 

What are sulfur burps, and why do they happen?

Sulfur burps are unpleasant burps that smell like rotten eggs. They happen when hydrogen sulfide gas builds up in the digestive system. People may often notice these burps more after eating foods high in sulfur, such as eggs, meat, or certain vegetables. 

Several factors may contribute to sulfur burps. Digestive problems, like slow stomach emptying, can cause food to ferment and produce gas. Changes in gut bacteria, which can happen with some medications or diets, might also be a factor. 

Another possible cause of sulfur burps is food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, which may lead to stomach issues and sulfur-smelling gas. In addition, certain underlying conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), may disrupt digestion and increase gas.

People who experience sulfur burps may also notice other symptoms, such as bloating, nausea, or diarrhea. If these symptoms worsen, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider.

RELATED: Why does Ozempic cause nausea?

Does Ozempic cause sulfur burps?

Sulfur burps can occur in some people who take Ozempic. This medication, which is used to manage Type 2 diabetes, has been shown to cause eructation, or belching, according to clinical trials. Specifically, one study found that around 3% of patients on the 0.5 mg dose and about 1% of those on the 1 mg dose reported experiencing this side effect. 

Ozempic may lead to these unpleasant burps because of how it affects the digestive system. It contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is part of a drug class called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. One effect of Ozempic is delayed gastric emptying, which means food stays in the stomach longer. As a result, Ozempic may lead to a buildup and release of hydrogen sulfide gas. 

Ozempic may also cause sulfur burps because when combined with changes in gut bacteria or the consumption of certain foods. If sulfur burps are a concern while taking Ozempic, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help determine whether the medication is the cause and discuss potential solutions. 

Does Ozempic cause diarrhea?

Diarrhea is a well-documented Ozempic side effect. Around 9% of people experience diarrhea while on Ozempic, according to controlled trials in people with Type 2 diabetes. 

Ozempic works by slowing down the digestive process, which changes how the stomach and intestines work. Therefore, Ozempic may affect how food is absorbed, sometimes leading to diarrhea. In some cases, changes in gut movement may trigger a reflex that causes more frequent bowel movements.

Gastrointestinal side effects can vary from person to person. By paying attention to these symptoms, you may be able to better recognize how your body reacts to the medication.

How to get rid of sulfur burps from Ozempic

Getting rid of sulfur burps from Ozempic often requires dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes, but it may require over-the-counter (OTC) medications if those don’t work.

Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is important for digestion. Staying hydrated helps food move through your stomach and intestines, which can stop gas from building up and causing sulfur burps. 

Carrying a water bottle with you may make it easier to drink water throughout the day. Herbal teas, like peppermint or ginger tea, can also count for increasing your fluid intake. These teas can act as home remedies that may help calm your stomach and reduce burping.

Eat smaller meals

Eating smaller meals can help prevent your digestive system from getting overwhelmed. Large meals make the stomach work harder, which can produce more gas and lead to sulfur burps. Smaller, more frequent meals are easier to digest and reduce pressure on the stomach. 

It’s also important to choose balanced meals that are rich in nutrients. Try to include a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats in each meal. Eating slowly and chewing your food well may also help you break down food before it reaches the stomach.

Avoid carbonated drinks

Carbonated drinks can contribute to gas because they contain carbon dioxide. This gas can make you feel fuller and lead to more frequent burping. To reduce sulfur burps, it’s a good idea to avoid drinks like soda, sparkling water, and beer. 

If you enjoy fizzy drinks, switching to flat options may help. Choose non-carbonated beverages, like water or juice, to reduce the amount of extra gas you’re consuming and reduce burping episodes.

Limit high-sulfur foods

High-sulfur foods, like garlic, onions, and certain vegetables, may cause sulfur burps. These foods break down into compounds that create a strong odor. To help manage this issue, you might want to identify and reduce these foods in your diet. 

Try keeping a food diary to find out which foods cause sulfur burps. You can also try swapping these foods for lower-sulfur options, like zucchini or salad greens. Cooking your vegetables makes a difference, too; steaming or boiling them instead of eating them raw may help reduce their sulfur content.

Try OTC medications 

OTC medications may help relieve Ozempic burps. Gas-X (simethicone) is a common option that helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach, making it easier to pass gas and reduce discomfort. It can be particularly helpful if you experience bloating along with sulfur burps. 

If you struggle with acid reflux, heartburn, or indigestion alongside burping, antacids are another option to consider. These medications work by neutralizing stomach acid to help relieve symptoms. In addition, some people may find that digestive enzymes or probiotic supplements help improve digestion and keep their gut healthy. Digestive enzymes can make it easier for your body to break down food, while probiotics can support the good bacteria in your gut. 

How to prevent and treat Ozempic diarrhea

If you’re experiencing diarrhea while using Ozempic, there are some simple ways to help manage it. Certain dietary changes and medications might help reduce symptoms and make the treatment more manageable.

Consume a bland diet

Eating a bland diet may help calm an upset stomach and reduce diarrhea symptoms. Foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—often called the BRAT diet—are easy on the digestive system. These foods can help firm up stools and provide important nutrients without irritating the stomach. 

If you have a sensitive stomach, try to keep meals simple. Avoid spices and sauces, as they can cause more digestive problems. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help, as doing so may allow the digestive system to adjust gradually. Staying hydrated is also helpful for preventing diarrhea.

Avoid high-fat and high-fiber foods

High-fat foods can make diarrhea worse by causing the colon to secrete extra fluid. You might want to limit or avoid fried foods, fatty meats, and rich desserts. Instead, choose lean proteins like chicken or fish, which are easier to digest. 

Foods that are high in fiber can also worsen diarrhea. While fiber is important for digestion, too much can overstimulate the gut. You may want to cut back on raw vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Choosing easily digestible foods, like white bread or pasta, may help manage diarrhea. 

Track food intolerances

Some people have food intolerances that can make diarrhea worse. Common triggers include dairy products, especially for those who are lactose intolerant. Keeping a food diary can help you identify these intolerances. By tracking what you eat and your symptoms, you may notice patterns. If certain foods consistently cause problems, you might want to try cutting them out for a while to see if your symptoms improve.

RELATED: 5 foods to avoid while taking Ozempic

Use OTC anti-diarrheal medications

Anti-diarrheal medications like Imodium (loperamide) or Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) may help control diarrhea. Imodium works by slowing down how quickly the gut moves, which allows the body to absorb more fluids and form firmer stools. Pepto-Bismol forms a protective coating in the large intestine where it absorbs water and toxins.

It’s important to use these medications as directed. Using too much can lead to constipation or other problems. Always read the labels and follow the dosage instructions. A healthcare professional can confirm if Imodium is safe for you based on your health conditions and any other medications you may be taking.

Consider dose adjustments

Starting Ozempic gradually and making dose adjustments may help reduce diarrhea. Some people find that lowering the dose allows their body to adjust without experiencing strong side effects. But it is very important to discuss any dose changes with a healthcare provider beforehand. Trying to adjust the dose on your own might make the medication less effective or cause other problems. You can work with your healthcare provider to maximize the medication’s benefits while minimizing discomfort.

RELATED: Ozempic chart: Dosage & frequency

Not every method will work for everyone who experiences diarrhea from Ozempic. People can respond differently based on their diet, lifestyle, and health, and finding the best way to manage these symptoms may take some time.

Alternative treatments without Ozempic side effects

You might want to look for alternatives to Ozempic to avoid side effects like sulfur burps and diarrhea, especially if they persist or worsen. However, keep in mind that other GLP-1 receptor agonists often cause stomach issues like nausea and diarrhea as well. Therefore, finding another medication that doesn’t come with these side effects may be difficult.

Still, as everyone reacts differently to medications, you may be able to try a different GLP-1 agonist to see how it works for you. Other GLP-1 agonists include:

Other diabetes medications are also available. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend medications like Glucophage (metformin), Januvia (sitagliptin), Invokana (canagliflozin), or Farxiga (dapagliflozin) to control blood sugar levels. 

Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice on the best treatment for your condition. They can recommend diabetes drugs that may work better for you.

Consult a healthcare provider

If you have sulfur burps and diarrhea while taking Ozempic, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider. These side effects can be uncomfortable, but they may improve as your body gets used to the medication. 

Similarly, if these side effects continue to affect your daily life or get worse, a healthcare provider can help determine whether the symptoms are related to Ozempic or whether there’s another cause.

If you experience severe or ongoing diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever, seek medical attention. These signs, along with sulfur burps, may indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate care.