GLP-1 RA Use Linked to Increased Residual Gastric Content in Fasted Patients
March 7, 2024
A cross-sectional study involving 124 fasted patients undergoing elective procedures under anesthesia revealed that users of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) had a significantly higher prevalence of increased residual gastric content (RGC) compared to nonusers (56% vs. 19%), despite adhering to guideline-recommended fasting durations. The study underscores the need to reassess fasting guidelines in patients on GLP-1 RA, as the current recommendations may not sufficiently mitigate the heightened risk of aspiration under anesthesia for this group. No correlation was found between the duration of GLP-1 RA interruption and RGC prevalence, indicating the persistent effect of the drug on gastric emptying. This highlights the importance of considering GLP-1 RA use when planning anesthesia due to its association with increased RGC and potential aspiration risk.
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[Source: JAMA Network, March 6th, 2024]
