This is typical advice given to anyone undergoing a medical procedure involving general anesthesia. “Don’t eat or drink anything for a period of time before surgery.”
Withholding food and water is a safety measure designed to prevent the patient from becoming ill. Aspiration may occur, making breathing difficult or impossible.
The American Association of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is now providing new guidance along these lines, but specifically addressing individuals with diabetes and taking certain popular medications for weight loss. increase.
ASA guidance recommends refraining from using drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic before surgery to reduce the risk of complications from anesthesia. According to the group, the guidance reflects concerns that patients under anesthesia may experience aspiration, nausea, and vomiting due to delayed gastric emptying.
“Scientific data are currently lacking on how[the drug]affects patients undergoing surgery and how it interacts with anesthesia, but delayed gastric emptying can lead to regurgitation and food cravings.” We have received anecdotal reports that it may be associated with an increased risk of aspiration” invading the airways and lungs during general anesthesia and deep sedation. ” ASA President Michael W. Champeau, M.D., FAAP and FASA said in a statement:Additional guidance includes stopping arbitration before elective proceedings.
Wegovy and Ozempic are brand names for a drug called semaglutide that helps control blood sugar levels in adults with diabetes. These and other glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists like Trulicity can delay stomach emptying, reduce hunger and eat less.
It is currently recommended that people who take daily medications refrain from taking medications on the day of a procedure or surgery. If you take it weekly, do not take it the week before your procedure.
You should also ask your doctor if another drug is recommended prior to surgery to control the condition.
