Delayed gastric emptying raises aspiration risk during anesthesia. Current ASA guidance for elective procedures.
About this article
Reviewed byDr. Richard Allen, M.D.
RoleEndocrinology Reviewer
First publishedMay 20, 2026
Last reviewedMay 20, 2026
Page typeIn-depth editorial guide
Sources15+ cited sources
Why GLP-1 affects anesthesia
GLP-1 RAs slow gastric emptying — a benefit for satiety but a risk during anesthesia because residual gastric contents can be aspirated during induction.
ASA 2023 guidance (still current)
- Weekly GLP-1 (sema, tirz, dula): hold ≥1 week before elective procedures requiring anesthesia.
- Daily GLP-1 (liraglutide): hold ≥1 day.
- Emergency procedures: proceed with anesthesia, treat as full stomach.
- Coordination required: tell anesthesiologist and surgeon about GLP-1 use during pre-op visit.
Resuming after surgery
Resume at next regular weekly dose if <1 week missed. If >2 weeks missed, re-titrate from the dose below your maintenance to avoid severe nausea.