Matthew Dellaquila, MD, president of the Michigan Society of Anesthesiologists and chief and medical director of anesthesiology services at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital, has published an article on news site Michigan Advance called “Physician anesthesiologists need to know if you’re taking Ozempic or another GLP-1 drug.”
Perioperative providers are grappling with the explosion in use of the drugs and their potential impact on patient safety before, during and after surgeries.
“There is still much to learn about these medications, but we know they present challenges when patients undergo anesthesia, and we adjust patient care to keep patients safe,” writes Dr. Dellaquila. “That’s why it’s so important to tell your care team you’re taking a GLP-1 medication prior to surgery.”
Of particular concern is intraoperative aspiration, which is mitigated by asking patients to fast so their stomachs are empty going into surgeries. “GLP-1 medications work in part by slowing stomach emptying, which keeps the stomach fuller longer,” he writes. “That can change how physician anesthesiologists prepare you for a procedure. You may have to fast for a longer period before a procedure. An ultrasound also may be used to see whether your stomach is empty. And if the risk of aspiration is too high, an elective surgery may be delayed.”
The “good news,” writes Dr. Dellaquila, is that “the overwhelming majority of patients taking GLP-1 medications undergo surgery safely,” and that patients don’t need to stop taking them preoperatively unless directed by their care team. “Each patient is evaluated individually,” he writes. “To do that well, your anesthesiologist needs to know your medication, dose, and phase of treatment along with any gastrointestinal symptoms or other medical conditions that slow digestion.”
He concludes by telling patients, “You are your own best advocate. Be open with your care team before any procedure and ask questions so you understand exactly how medications can impact your procedure. Careful communication between patients, surgeons, and anesthesiologists is what ensures the best possible outcome.”
Read Dr. Dellaquila’s full article here.
