Episode 336: 335. Do GLP-1 Cause Residual Gastric Contents

Because glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists can slow gastric emptying, they might confer risk for residual gastric contents — and possibly aspiration!!!! Should we stop the glp-1

Should we stop the glp-1-- Anesthesiologists and gastroenterologists have weighed in on this concern and on QM I say just do whatever the anesthesiologist want because they have the final say!!

Sen S et al. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use and residual gastric content before anesthesia. JAMA Surg 2024 Jun; 159:660.

per American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] guidelines; Prior to surgery, patients had fasted at least 2 hours for clear liquids, 6 hours for light meals, and 8 hours for full meals

researchers performed gastric ultrasound just prior to elective surgery in 62 patients who were using weekly injected GLP-1 agonists (semaglutide, dulaglutide, or tirzepatide) and in 62 nonusers (controls).

The prevalence of residual gastric contents was significantly higher in the GLP-1 group than in the control group (56% vs. 19%). After adjustment for confounders, GLP-1 users remained significantly more likely than controls to have residual gastric contents.

Sen S et al. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use and residual gastric content before anesthesia. JAMA Surg 2024 Jun; 159:660.

We still don't know the overall clinical consequences of residual gastric contents in GLP-1 users who undergo elective surgery under anesthesia. For now, clinicians who provide preoperative consultation should try to find out policies of local anesthesiology groups.