GLP-1 agonists are typically considered safe, but there are a few risks and complications you should be aware of:
- Dangerous for use during pregnancy
- Allergic reactions
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
Allergic Reactions to GLP-1 Agonists
Some people may develop antibodies to GLP-1 agonists which can affect the medication’s effectiveness and lead to allergic reactions at the injection site. In some rare cases, it can cause anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction.
If you experience ongoing itchiness, redness, or other symptoms of an allergic reaction at the injection site, consult your healthcare provider. But if you exhibit symptoms of anaphylaxis, such as shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, wheezing, red rash, hives, chest tightness, abdominal pain or a feeling of doom, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
Tips to Help You Take GLP-1 Medications Safely
Using GLP-1 medications can support weight loss but a lot of your success depends on your own choices. Here are some tips to help you succeed with GLP-1 medications for weight loss safely:
1. Communicate with Your Healthcare Team
Always communicate with your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual symptoms or side effects while using GLP-1 agonists. They can help you manage these effects and adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Make sure to attend your regularly scheduled appointments and know when to contact your provider for other concerns. It’s also important to consult your healthcare team before making any major changes to your diet or exercise routine.
2. Take Your Medications as Prescribed
It’s a must to take your GLP-1 medications exactly as your provider prescribed them. This includes taking them at the right time, at the correct dose, and not skipping doses. If your medication is injectable, it needs to be administered properly.
3. Eat Well
Eating well while on GLP-1 medications can enhance weight loss and minimize the side effects. Be sure to have fiber, eat low fat foods, lots of veggies, and lean meats. Also important to eat slowly.
4. Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated can aid weight loss, prevent dehydration headaches and boost your energy. For those on GLP-1 medications, hydration is especially important to reduce the risk of constipation and other side effects.
5. Be Physically Active
Physical activity enhances both physical and mental health and supports the effectiveness of GLP-1 medications. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week and do some strength training a few times a week too.
6. Plan Your Meals
Meal planning can make eating healthier less stressful. The Plate Method can help. Basically, fill half your plate with veggies, a quarter with lean meat, and another quarter with high fiber carbs. Regularly add foods like healthy fats, fresh fruit, and reduced-fat dairy.
GLP-1 Agonists and Pregnancy
Taking GLP-1 agonists during pregnancy is unsafe. Animal studies indicate that these medications can cause developmental issues in the fetus. You should use effective birth control while taking a GLP-1 agonist. If you find out you are pregnant while on the medication, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
GLP-1 Agonists and Hypoglycemia
There is a low risk of mild low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) episodes when taking a GLP-1 agonist. However, the risk becomes significant if you combine GLP-1s with other blood sugar-lowering medications, like sulfonylureas or insulin. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar drops below 70 mg/dL. Without proper treatment, severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.
To treat hypoglycemia, consume sugar or carbohydrates, such as half a cup of apple juice or half a cup of banana.
Preoperative Management of GLP-1 Agonists
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Task Force on Preoperative Fasting reviewed the literature on GLP-1 agonists and their gastrointestinal side effects, particularly delayed gastric emptying, which can lead to regurgitation and aspiration of gastric contents. Here are their recommendations for managing GLP-1 agonists before surgery:
Days Before the Procedure
Daily Dosing: Hold GLP-1 agonists on the day of the procedure.
Weekly Dosing: Hold GLP-1 agonists a week before the procedure.
Consult an endocrinologist for bridging antidiabetic therapy if the GLP-1 agonists are held for longer than the dosing schedule to avoid hyperglycemia.
Day of the Procedure
If the patient has severe gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, or pain), consider delaying the elective procedure. Discuss potential risks of regurgitation and aspiration with the patient and surgeon.
If no gastrointestinal symptoms are present and GLP-1 agonists have been held as advised, proceed as usual.
If no gastrointestinal symptoms are present but GLP-1 agonists were not held as advised, proceed with “full stomach” precautions or evaluate gastric volume using ultrasound. If the stomach is empty, proceed as usual; if it is full or ultrasound is inconclusive, consider delaying the procedure or manage as a “full stomach.” Discuss potential risks with the patient and surgeon.