Combining GLP-1s with Other Treatments - FAQs

GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide should not be combined with other prescription weight loss drugs unless specifically advised by a clinician. Using two appetite-suppressing or metabolic agents together can increase side effects and make dosing unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

Medicspot clinicians do not co-prescribe GLP-1s with other pharmacological weight loss treatments such as orlistat, naltrexone/bupropion, or phentermine. If you have recently used another medication, a washout period may be required before starting GLP-1 therapy.

Many people with type 2 diabetes already take oral antidiabetic medicines or insulin. GLP-1 receptor agonists can be safely combined with several of these under close medical supervision:

• Metformin: commonly continued; no dose change usually needed.
• SGLT2 inhibitors (for example, empagliflozin, dapagliflozin): may be continued alongside GLP-1s for complementary benefit under careful supervision.
• Sulfonylureas or insulin: may require dose reduction to avoid low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) or DKA. Medicspot clinicians are not able to prescribe GLP-1 receptor agonists alongside these treatments, and need to be reviewed by the same clinician managing these medication.

Your prescriber will review your medications and adjust them as needed to keep blood glucose within safe limits.

GLP-1 medicines slow digestion, which can affect how some oral contraceptives are absorbed. If you use the combined pill or progestogen-only pill, it is best to:

• Take it at the same time each day.
• Use additional protection (such as condoms) during the first four weeks after starting or increasing your GLP-1 dose.

Other hormonal treatments such as HRT are generally safe to continue, but the efficacy of oral HRT treatments can be impacted. If you have concerns then speak to your clinician who is prescribing the HRT (your Medicspot clinician will review all current medications before prescribing GLP-1’s).

Most over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used safely with GLP-1s in standard doses. 

However, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be used carefully if you have stomach irritation, ulcers, or kidney problems, as GLP-1 medicines can slow gastric emptying.

Always take NSAIDs with food and check with your pharmacist or clinician if you use them regularly especially if you develop any new stomach pains, acid or change in your bowels.

Moderate alcohol consumption is not contraindicated, but any alcohol, especially heavy drinking, can worsen nausea, dehydration, and cause blood sugar instability. It is best to:

• Avoid drinking around the time of your injection.
• Stay well hydrated.
• Avoid alcohol completely if you experience significant nausea or low appetite.

There is no direct interaction between GLP-1s and most vitamins or minerals. However, certain supplements marketed for “fat burning” or appetite suppression even herbal remedies may interact and increase side effects. Always share a full list of supplements with your clinician so they can check for safety.

Advice from Laura Reed, Health Coach:
“Focus on whole-food nutrition first. Supplements can help plug small gaps, but they are not a substitute for consistent eating habits, hydration, and sleep.”

GLP-1 therapy works best when combined with regular physical activity and behavioural support. Exercise improves muscle preservation and metabolic rate, while coaching helps maintain motivation and structure. Medicspot integrates these components into its aftercare programme to build long-term weight stability. For more information see our Exercise Article Hub.

GLP-1 medications can be used safely alongside many common treatments when clinically supervised, but combining multiple weight loss drugs or making unmonitored changes can be risky.

Medicspot clinicians review every patient’s medications, supplements, and lifestyle factors before prescribing to ensure complete safety and coordination of care.

You can complete an online health assessment if you would like to explore whether GLP-1 treatment may be clinically appropriate for you – start the assessment.

Dr Abby Hyams completed her medical training in Bristol and has been a GP for 19 years, spending many of those as a partner in an NHS practice in Hemel Hempstead. She has a particular passion for supporting patients with weight loss and promoting positive behaviour change, helping individuals build sustainable habits that improve their long-term health and wellbeing.

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire alongside other independently validated medical information about you and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases, the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.