Hormonal
Evidence regarding the impact of GLP-1 RAs on total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) outcomes is limited, heterogeneous, and contradictory, with some studies showing reduced mortality and adverse events while others show increased complications.
For shoulder replacement surgery, the data on GLP-1 RAs is mixed. Some studies show benefits like lower mortality, while others show higher risks of blood clots and pneumonia. Because the evidence is weak and contradictory, your surgical team will likely evaluate your specific case carefully. Do not assume the benefits seen in hip/knee surgery apply here without explicit guidance from your surgeon.
In contrast, evidence relating to shoulder arthroplasty outcomes was limited and showed greater variability.
Why this rating
Only 4 studies, all retrospective, with high heterogeneity and conflicting results.
Source
Systematic Review Evaluating the Effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist Use on the Postoperative Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Arthroplasty Procedures
Hannah Tabor et al. · Cureus · 2026
DOI 10.7759/cureus.105269
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