By now we have all heard about the ongoing popularity of the diabetes and weight loss medications commonly referred to as GLP-1’s (Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists). GLP-1 receptor agonists were initially approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetes and subsequently to help with weight loss. Since then, many questions have been raised about management of these medications perioperatively. Are they safe to use? Should these medications be held prior to a procedure? Should you reschedule the procedure? What’s best for patient safety?

In this week’s newsletter, we answer questions related to management for GLP-1s perioperatively and provide our clients with the most recent guidance from the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), as well as the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA). What is your facility doing to keep your patients safe? Let us help you enhance patient safety. If you need help of have questions, reach out to us.

The Consultant Pharmacists at OctariusRx provide guidance on safe medication management, survey readiness and cost savings to ambulatory healthcare facilities/surgery centers, senior care facilities and pharmacies. We also help individual patients optimize their medications to improve their quality of life and save money. Contact us for assistance.