GLP-1 Users Encouraged to Closely Follow Pre-Operative Instructions to Avoid Potential Complications

Patients should heed guidance from their physician to avoid possible problems or surgical delays

DALLAS, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In light of the exploding popularity of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Inc. (USAP) is encouraging all patients taking GLP-1 receptor medication to consult with their physicians well in advance of procedures involving anesthesia. 

These popular drugs, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management, slow the digestive process—a beneficial effect for blood sugar control and appetite suppression. However, the delayed gastric emptying associated with these drugs can increase the risk of respiratory complications during surgery if pre-operative guidelines are not followed.

Frederick Mansfield, M.D., Chairman of USAP's Clinical Quality Committee, said that patients on a GLP-1 medication should be sure to disclose their use of the medication to their surgeon and/or anesthesia provider well in advance of the scheduled procedure. 

"The pre-operative safety guidelines for GLP-1 medications are changing quickly as new clinical evidence emerges," said Dr Mansfield. "Given the evolving nature of guidance with these medications, it is recommended that patients consult with their physician as early as possible before their surgical procedure.  This will enable the physician to give up-to-the-minute advice on the usage of the GLP-1 prior to surgery and advise the patient on proper dietary restrictions in the 24 hours prior to the procedure."    

While following pre-operative guidance is always recommended, with patients who use GLP-1s it takes on even more importance.  Failure to follow this guidance could result in cancelling the surgery or, if the procedure proceeds, increased risk of significant complications.

Key Recommendations for Patients:

• If you are taking GLP-1 medications, disclose this information to your surgeon/anesthesiologist as early as possible in advance of the procedure.
• Make sure you understand and accurately follow the pre-operative guidelines as given.
• Don't hesitate to contact your physician with any questions.
• If you have been unable to follow the guidelines, make sure you disclose this to your physician so a candid conversation can occur and informed decisions can be made that put your safety and care before anything else.

(Please note: The information provided in this release is for informational purposes only, does not take the place of consultation with one's physician, and does not constitute medical advice or establish a physician-patient relationship)

About U.S. Anesthesia Partners

U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Inc. (USAP) is a physician-owned and clinician-led organization dedicated to providing high-quality anesthesia services. USAP anesthesiologists, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and certified anesthesiologist assistant (CAAs) work in more than 700 facilities across the country to provide anesthesia care for more than 2 million cases annually. USAP's over 4,500 clinicians have expertise in many anesthesia subspecialties, including pediatric, cardiac and OB anesthesia. USAP's data-driven quality metrics enable continuous innovation and improvements that are shared across the organization via its national and local clinical quality network. This network helps facilitate the delivery of consistent, high-quality services for patients, surgeons, facilities, and health plans. To learn more about USAP, visit http://www.usap.com/

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SOURCE U.S. Anesthesia Partners, Inc.