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In a recent multisociety statement, authors addressed glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)–receptor agonist use just prior to procedures involving sedation or general anesthesia (NEJM JW Gen Med Dec 1 2024 and Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024 Oct 29; [e-pub]). The statement reflected concerns that these drugs, which delay gastric emptying, can predispose patients to retained gastric contents and raise risk for pulmonary aspiration.
In this retrospective study, researchers from four U.S. medical centers identified 815 patients (82% with type 2 diabetes) who were using GLP-1 agonists and were scheduled for upper endoscopy. Patients were instructed not to eat for at least 8 hours before endoscopy. The following findings were noted:
9% of patients — ne…