Key Points:
- Some patients acquire GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic from markets not regulated by the FDA, which can lead to undisclosed use that poses health risks.
- Due to the effects of GLP-1s like Ozempic on gastric emptying, the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology advises additional preoperative screenings, such as a point-of-care ultrasound, to assess stomach contents before surgery.
- Ozempic can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and delayed gastric emptying, which can escalate to gastroparesis—a condition significantly more common with GLP-1s compared to other diabetes and weight loss treatments.