Guidance from the clinical team at emedspharmacy

This information is provided to support patients prescribed GLP-1 medicines and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Ramadan is a meaningful time of fasting, reflection, and spiritual focus. Each year, many patients using prescription weight-loss treatments ask us the same question:

“Can I continue my GLP-1 weight-loss injections during Ramadan?”

At emedspharmacy, our clinical team regularly supports patients through Ramadan. While many people can continue treatment safely, fasting does introduce important considerations. This guide shares the key points we discuss during consultations, to help you make informed and safe decisions.

This information is general and does not replace personalised medical advice.

What are GLP-1 weight-loss injections?

GLP-1 weight-loss injections are prescription-only medicines used to support weight loss alongside lifestyle changes. They work by:

• Reducing appetite
• Helping you feel fuller for longer
• Slowing digestion

Because these medicines affect hunger and digestion, fasting during Ramadan may feel different compared with other times of the year.

Using GLP-1 injections while fasting

In our clinical experience at emedspharmacy, many patients are able to continue GLP-1 treatment during Ramadan — provided the treatment is well tolerated and carefully managed.

Fasting from dawn (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar) leads to:

• Long periods without food or fluids
• Changes in meal timing
• Increased risk of dehydration
• A higher chance of nausea in some individuals

For this reason, we encourage patients to review their treatment plan ahead of Ramadan.

What we usually ask patients to consider

Hydration is especially important

GLP-1 treatments can reduce appetite and thirst. During Ramadan, this can increase the risk of dehydration.

We often advise patients to:

• Drink water regularly between Iftar and Suhoor
• Avoid drinking large volumes all at once
• Limit caffeine, which can worsen dehydration
• Watch for signs such as dizziness, headaches, or dark-coloured urine

If staying hydrated becomes difficult, fasting may not be safe.

Side effects can feel more noticeable

Some people experience nausea, reflux, or stomach discomfort when using GLP-1 injections, particularly when starting treatment or increasing the dose.

During Ramadan, these symptoms may feel more noticeable, especially:

• Early in treatment
• After large or heavy Iftar meals
• When eating quickly after a long fast

In practice, we often see that eating slowly and keeping Iftar meals lighter helps reduce discomfort.

Injection timing

GLP-1 injections are usually taken once weekly. Some patients find it more comfortable to take their injection:

• After Iftar
• In the evening when they are well hydrated
• On a day when fasting feels easier

Any changes to injection timing should always be discussed with a healthcare professional rather than adjusted independently.

Eating at Suhoor and Iftar

You don’t need to eat perfectly — small adjustments can make a big difference.

Helpful tips we commonly share:

• Include protein at Suhoor to support fullness
• Avoid very large portions at Iftar
• Eat slowly and stop when comfortably full
• Be cautious with fried or very spicy foods

Overeating at Iftar is one of the most common reasons patients experience nausea or discomfort while fasting on GLP-1 treatment.

When fasting may not be advisable

At emedspharmacy, we may advise patients not to fast while using GLP-1 treatment if they:

• Experience ongoing vomiting
• Feel faint, weak, or unwell
• Are unable to maintain hydration
• Notice worsening side effects

Islam provides exemptions from fasting when health may be harmed. Many patients find it helpful to consider both medical advice and guidance from a trusted religious authority.

When to seek medical advice urgently

You should stop fasting and seek medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent vomiting
• Severe or ongoing abdominal pain
• Signs of dehydration
• Confusion or collapse

Your health and safety always come first.

Our commitment to safe weight-loss care

All weight-loss treatments provided through emedspharmacy.co.uk are:

• Prescription-only
• Clinically assessed by UK-registered professionals
• Supplied in line with UK regulatory and clinical guidance

Our Knowledge Hub is designed to support informed decision-making, particularly during periods such as Ramadan when extra care may be needed.

A final word from our clinical team

Many people successfully continue GLP-1 weight-loss treatment during Ramadan. However, this should never involve pushing through symptoms or discomfort.

Listening to your body, staying hydrated, eating mindfully, and seeking advice when needed are key to staying safe.

If you are unsure whether fasting is appropriate for you while using weight-loss medication, we recommend speaking with a qualified healthcare professional before making a decision.

Medical disclaimer

The information provided in the emedspharmacy Knowledge Hub is for general educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Weight-loss treatments are prescription-only and subject to clinical assessment and suitability. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical attention if you experience severe or concerning symptoms.