BOSTON – Popular weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegobee are disappearing from stores, but as more people take them, doctors warn of the risks to patients who need surgery.
“This is a very dangerous complication and there are potential complications,” said Dr. Ion Hovey, an anesthesiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Pulmonary aspiration – can be fatal. Ozempic and similar drugs work by slowing digestion.
Dr. Mark Lewis, an anesthesiologist at Tufts Medical Center, said, “On the day of surgery, it prevents the stomach from emptying, exposing patients to the risk of aspirating food and gastric secretions while they fall asleep.”
Mr. Horby was one of the first to report such a complication in a patient here in Boston.
“Food got into his mouth and into his lungs. He had to be put in a breathing tube and taken to the intensive care unit. There he stayed overnight. Eventually. It worked out, but it was a very scary moment,” Hoby explained. “It was such a terrifying moment.”
This is likely related to Ozempic use, Hobai added, urging other doctors and patients to be warned.
“The risk is someone could get pneumonia from it and it could be severe,” Lewis said.
of American Society of Anesthesiologists issued guidance on these weight loss drugs.
“They advise to put this drug on hold … Ozempic, Wigoby, hold off the dose for a week before surgery. I don’t think that’s enough. I need to hold off the dose for 3 weeks. I think,” Hobai said.
These experts are not criticizing Ozenpitch. They just want patients to be open and honest about their use as more data about the drug is collected.
“It’s a great drug. It’s a great development and a big accomplishment for the medical community in treating obesity. Like any drug, it has certain side effects. There are a few things to watch out for,” Horby said. Told.
