Understanding Obesity Treatment Options and Surgical Protocols

By Kelli Ashbeck, service line business development director, Premier Health

The subject of obesity is often associated with shame and guilt, as many people assume that becoming and remaining overweight is simply the result of personal choices. The thought is that if people would just eat less and exercise more, their weight-loss struggles would simply vanish. However, as understanding about obesity has increased, studies have revealed that lifestyle choice is a minor factor for many people. In fact, the American Medical Association (AMA) designated obesity as a complex, chronic disease in 2013.

While diet and exercise remain the core of weight management, these alone won’t result in sustainable long-term weight loss for many people. One tool with rising popularity in a broader arsenal that can help patients lose and keep off weight comes from a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. Popular brands include Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications contain an ingredient that helps produce insulin, lower blood sugar levels, and control appetite.

When GLP-1 medications are included in a patient’s treatment plan, pre-operative protocols are followed for discontinuing the medication before a surgical procedure. It’s crucial for you to communicate to the patient when to stop these medications to avoid canceling their procedure. Below are the timeframes when patients should stop taking GLP-1 medications before surgery.    

• GLP-1 Agonists – Must STOP 7 days prior to surgery; Examples: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro), Dulaglutide (Trulicity), Exenatide ER (Bydureon BCise), Semaglutide (Ozempic)
• SGLT-2 Inhibitors – Must STOP 3 days before surgery; Examples – Bexaglifozin (Brenzavvy), Canagliflozin (Invokana), Dapagliflozin (Farxiga), Empagliflozin (Jardiance)
• Steglatro (ertugliflozin) – must STOP 3 days prior to surgery

Sharing this information promptly will ensure patients have a positive experience and reduce late cancellations in the OR schedule.

Back to the December 2024 issue of Premier Pulse