Anesthesia-Related Complications Linked to Popular Weight-Loss Medications

Patients taking widely-used weight-loss medications such as Wegovy and Ozempic may face potentially life-threatening complications during surgeries or procedures requiring fasting for anesthesia, according to medical experts.

There has been a notable increase in anesthesia-related issues among individuals taking popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. Despite following standard fasting guidelines of six to eight hours prior to procedures, some patients appear to be at risk of aspirating food and liquids into their lungs due to delayed digestion caused by these medications. This condition, known as pulmonary aspiration, can lead to serious lung damage, infections, and even fatalities, as emphasized by Dr. Ion Hobai, an anesthesiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital.

The gravity of this situation has prompted experts to issue warnings. The American Society of Anesthesiologists has recommended that patients cease taking daily weight-loss medications on the day of surgery and suspend weekly injections for up to a week before undergoing sedation procedures. However, concerns are growing that these precautions might not provide sufficient protection.

The medications in question, such as Wegovy and Ozempic, mimic gut hormones that play a role in post-meal responses, impacting appetite and stomach emptying rates. This can significantly slow down digestion, increasing the risk of aspiration.

Anesthesiologists have observed a surge in cases where patients taking these weight-loss medications experienced aspiration-related complications even when they followed fasting instructions. This issue has prompted medical professionals, including Dr. Hobai, to advocate for an extended cessation period of approximately three weeks before undergoing sedation procedures, considering the duration that semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) remains in the body.

While some medical experts believe further research is necessary to determine the ideal duration for stopping the medication, there is consensus on the importance of heightened caution. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of these medications, has stated that clinical trials and post-market data did not directly associate the drugs with aspiration. Nonetheless, the company acknowledges that delayed stomach emptying is a recognized side effect.

Patients are strongly advised to consult their healthcare providers before undergoing sedation if they are taking Wegovy or similar medications. Dr. Hobai advises individuals to discuss potential risks and benefits with their doctors to ensure appropriate precautions are taken when anesthesia is required. This situation underscores the necessity of tailored medical guidance for patients undergoing procedures while on these medications.