Hormonal
GLP-1 receptor agonists are associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) and rare serious adverse events (gallbladder disorders, pancreatitis), as well as emerging risks related to delayed gastric emptying affecting anesthesia and endoscopy.
Be aware that nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common when starting GLP-1 medications, but they often improve over time. Serious side effects like gallbladder issues or pancreatitis are rare but require medical attention. If you need surgery or a colonoscopy, inform your provider, as they may need to adjust your medication schedule to prevent complications like aspiration.
Common side effects were predominantly gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Rare serious adverse events included gallbladder disorders and acute pancreatitis. In, addition, multiple studies identify new risks associated with GLP-1RAs including increased aspiration risk during anesthesia due to delayed gastric emptying and challenges with bowel preparation for colonoscopies.
Why this rating
Supported by extensive data from RCTs, meta-analyses, and real-world database studies cited in the review.
Source
Glucagon-like Receptor-1 agonists for obesity: Weight loss outcomes, tolerability, side effects, and risks
Wissam Ghusn et al. · Obesity Pillars · 2024
DOI 10.1016/j.obpill.2024.100127
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