Why You Should Stop GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic One Week Before Surgery

If you’re scheduled for surgery, your surgeon or anesthesiologist may ask you to stop taking your GLP-1 medication—such as Ozempic—at least one week prior to your procedure. But why is this necessary? The answer lies in how these medications affect digestion and the risks they pose under anesthesia.

How GLP-1 Medications Affect Digestion

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. These medications work by slowing gastric emptying, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes a feeling of fullness. However, this delayed digestion can become a concern when undergoing surgery.

When anesthesia is administered, there’s a risk of aspiration—where stomach contents enter the lungs, potentially leading to serious complications such as pneumonia or airway obstruction. Normally, patients fast before surgery to reduce this risk, but GLP-1 medications can cause food to remain in the stomach longer than expected, increasing the chance of aspiration even after fasting.

Common GLP-1 Medications and Their Generic Names

If you take any of the following GLP-1 receptor agonists, your surgical team may advise you to pause them before your procedure:

• Ozempic (semaglutide)
• Wegovy (semaglutide)
• Rybelsus (semaglutide, oral tablet)
• Trulicity (dulaglutide)
• Bydureon BCise (exenatide extended-release)
• Byetta (exenatide)
• Victoza (liraglutide)
• Saxenda (liraglutide, used for weight loss)
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist)

What You Should Do Before Surgery

If you are taking a GLP-1 medication and have an upcoming surgery, follow these steps:

1. Inform your surgical team. Let your doctor and anesthesiologist know about all medications you take, including GLP-1 receptor agonists.
2. Follow your provider’s instructions. Some surgery centers require stopping GLP-1 medications one week before surgery, while others may have different guidelines.
3. Discuss alternative diabetes management. If you take a GLP-1 for diabetes, your doctor may recommend alternative methods to keep your blood sugar levels stable while pausing the medication.
4. Monitor for symptoms. During the medication break, watch for any changes in blood sugar levels or other effects and communicate with your healthcare team if needed.

The Bottom Line

Stopping GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Trulicity before surgery is a precautionary step to reduce the risk of aspiration under anesthesia. If you are taking one of these medications and have a procedure planned, talk to your doctor as soon as possible to ensure a safe and smooth surgery.

Do you have questions about GLP-1 medications and eye surgery? Contact our team at Laser Eye Surgery of Erie to learn more about preparing for your procedure.

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