FDA Updates GLP-1 Label With Pulmonary Aspiration Warning (Medscape)

The FDA has updated the labels for all glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), liraglutide (Victoza), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), adding a warning about the risk of pulmonary aspiration during surgeries requiring anesthesia or deep sedation. The label update cites postmarketing reports of pulmonary aspiration in patients on GLP-1 RAs who adhered to preoperative fasting guidelines but retained gastric contents. Patients are advised to inform their healthcare providers of GLP-1 RA usage prior to any planned surgeries to mitigate risks. This change is reflected across the drugs’ Warnings, Adverse Reactions, and Patient Counseling sections, underscoring the importance of open communication between patients and providers about medication use in surgical settings.