"Risks of GLP-1 Drugs: Endoscopy Complications and Aspiration Pneumonia"
A study suggests that patients taking weight management drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which are GLP-1 agonist drugs, should suspend their intake before undergoing endoscopy procedures to reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. These drugs slow down digestion and food retention in the stomach, increasing the chance of aspiration during sedation for procedures. While the overall risk of aspiration is low, temporarily holding these medications prior to procedures can significantly reduce the risk, potentially saving lives and hospitalizations.