Right Side Chest or Back Pain on GLP-1: When to Worry (UK Guide)
Author context: After losing 6 stone on Mounjaro (GLP-1), I experienced right-side abdominal and back pain that escalated into emergency NHS gallbladder surgery. This guide explains what right-side pain can mean — and when to seek urgent care.
Short answer: Mild right-side chest or back discomfort on GLP-1 can sometimes be digestive. However, persistent upper right pain lasting more than 1–2 hours — especially with nausea, fever, or jaundice — may indicate gallbladder issues and requires urgent assessment.
If you’re Googling this in discomfort, read calmly and check your symptoms against the guide below.
Read my full emergency surgery story here →
Start here: If you’re dealing with gallbladder symptoms (or recovery after removal) and want the full UK guide — symptoms, red flags, A&E triggers, surgery, recovery, diet and GLP-1 context — use the mega hub below.
GLP-1, Gallstones & Gallbladder Removal (UK): Mega FAQ Guide →
Where is gallbladder pain usually felt?
Gallbladder pain is typically felt in the upper right abdomen under the ribs. It may radiate to the back or right shoulder blade and can sometimes feel like chest discomfort.
- Upper right abdominal pain
- Right shoulder blade pain
- Mid-back pain
- Occasionally chest tightness
Chest pain vs digestive pain on GLP-1
GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying. This can sometimes cause bloating or discomfort.
However, gallbladder pain behaves differently.
| Feature | Digestive Discomfort | Gallbladder Pain |
|---|---|---|
| Pain type | Bloating, pressure | Steady, intense |
| Duration | Fluctuates | 1–6 hours |
| Radiation | Rare | Back / shoulder blade |
| Improves with movement | Often | Usually no |
When to worry
- Pain lasting more than 1–2 hours
- Fever or chills
- Yellowing of eyes
- Persistent vomiting
- Worsening right-side pain
If these apply, seek urgent medical care.
Why GLP-1 users should be aware
Rapid weight loss can increase gallstone risk. If right-side pain develops during GLP-1 treatment, it should not automatically be dismissed as “just wind.”
Read the science behind GLP-1 and gallstones →
My experience
I initially thought the pain was trapped wind. It wasn’t. It persisted, radiated to my back, and did not improve with movement.
FAQs
Can GLP-1 cause chest pain?
GLP-1 may cause digestive discomfort, but persistent right-side pain should be assessed medically.
Is shoulder blade pain linked to gallstones?
Yes, referred pain to the right shoulder blade is common in gallbladder attacks.
Should I go to A&E for right-side chest pain?
If severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever or jaundice, seek urgent care.
How long does gallbladder pain last?
Typically 1–6 hours and does not improve with position changes.
Can rapid weight loss trigger pain?
Rapid weight loss can increase gallstone risk, which may lead to pain episodes.
Disclaimer: This article shares lived experience and educational context. It does not replace professional medical advice.
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