HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – Weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy can be problematic when a person undergoes anesthesia.
That is according to a new study published in the journal JAMA Surgery.
In their study, researchers noted that the medications, called GLP-1 Agonists, can create potentially serious health issues when mixed with drugs used in anesthesia during surgery and other medical procedures.
Because the drugs slow the emptying of gastric contents from the stomach, they increase the risk of aspiration, which is when stomach contents enter the lungs.
In June 2023, The American Society of Anesthesiologists released new guidance about screening for the use of these medications before surgery, informing patients of the risk of possible adverse outcomes, and recommending the medications be stopped prior to procedures.
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL RECEIVES GRANT
Once again, this year, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital has received $25,000 from the toy foundation as part of the organizations 2024 Children’s Hospital Play Grants Program.
The funding has helped purchase items like an interactive robot and other play items that can help with healing.
“As child life specialists our job is to help reduce the stress and anxieties of kids in the hospital and we do that through play. most fears are fears of the unknown and so our job is to use the medical tools and play to help them to explore, learn and understand why they’re here in the hospital,” said Shannon Bajwa, the hospital’s Child Life Manager.
Bajwa said this year’s grant will allow them to purchase items that will support infants in the intensive care unit.