Navigating Surgery While Taking Mounjaro: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Undergoing surgery can be a significant life event, often accompanied by a myriad of questions about preparation, recovery, and how existing health regimens might intersect with the procedure. For many individuals on a journey toward improved health, especially those managing their weight or type 2 diabetes with GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a crucial question often arises: can you take Mounjaro before surgery? This isn’t just a clinical query; it’s a deeply personal one that touches on the delicate balance between managing ongoing health goals and ensuring surgical safety.

The landscape of pre-surgical guidance for GLP-1 medications has evolved rapidly. Just a few years ago, the default recommendation was often a blanket cessation of these medications for a prolonged period before surgery. However, as our understanding of these powerful drugs deepens and clinical experience grows, expert medical societies are refining their advice, leading to a more nuanced, patient-centric approach. This dynamic environment can, understandably, create confusion. We understand that you’re looking for clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance.

At TrimRx, our journey began with a shared vision to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles by merging cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective weight loss solutions. We believe that sustainable weight loss should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach, providing a user-friendly and supportive space where individuals receive personalized, medically supervised care. It’s with this commitment to your well-being that we approach topics like navigating medications before surgery, ensuring you have the most current, authoritative information to discuss with your healthcare team.

This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the most recent recommendations regarding Mounjaro and other GLP-1 medications in the context of surgery. We will delve into why these medications garnered pre-surgical caution, explore the updated guidance from leading medical bodies, and provide actionable steps to ensure a safe and smooth surgical experience. Together, we’ll navigate the intricacies of preparing for your procedure, discussing the benefits of pre-surgical weight management, and outlining how TrimRx supports you every step of the way, making sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to your individual needs. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to confidently approach your surgical preparation while continuing your health journey.

The Evolving Landscape of GLP-1 Medications and Surgery

The introduction of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide), has revolutionized the management of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. These medications work by mimicking natural hormones in the body, which helps regulate blood sugar, reduces appetite, and significantly slows down the movement of food through the digestive system. While these mechanisms are highly beneficial for achieving health goals, they raised important considerations in the context of surgery.

Understanding the Initial Concerns: The Risk of Pulmonary Aspiration

One of the key concerns initially identified with GLP-1 medications revolved around their impact on gastric emptying. The slowed movement of food and liquids through the stomach means that a patient might not have an “empty stomach” even after adhering to traditional pre-surgical fasting guidelines. This delayed gastric emptying poses a potential risk during procedures requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation.

When a person is under anesthesia, their protective reflexes, such as the ability to cough or gag, are diminished. If there are still contents in the stomach, there’s a risk of pulmonary aspiration – meaning stomach contents could be vomited and accidentally enter the lungs. Pulmonary aspiration is a serious complication that can lead to severe lung infections, breathing difficulties, and in some rare cases, even fatal aspiration pneumonia. This concern led medical professionals to initially recommend stopping GLP-1 medications for a significant period before surgery to ensure the stomach was as empty as possible.

Recent Developments and FDA Warnings

Recognizing the growing number of patients on GLP-1 medications, and in response to post-marketing reports of pulmonary aspiration incidents, the medical community began to gather more data and refine its recommendations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has, in turn, added warnings to the labels of GLP-1 medicines about the risk of pulmonary aspiration, applying to the entire class of drugs, including Ozempic®, Rybelsus, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound®. These warnings highlight that, in rare instances, patients receiving these medications have experienced pulmonary aspiration despite reporting adherence to preoperative fasting recommendations. It is important to remember that these are rare occurrences, but they underscore the need for careful patient management.

This heightened awareness and the FDA’s warnings served as a critical catalyst for further research and the development of updated guidelines, aiming to strike a balance between patient safety and the continuity of essential medical treatments.

The Game-Changing Guidance: What the Experts Say Now

The landscape of pre-surgical management for patients on GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro has seen a significant and encouraging shift. What was once a cautious, often blanket recommendation to discontinue these medications has evolved into a more individualized, risk-stratified approach.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists’ Updated Recommendations

In a pivotal development in November 2024, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) issued updated guidance that has reshaped how many healthcare providers approach patients on GLP-1 receptor agonists before elective surgery. This new guidance represents a substantial departure from previous recommendations, offering a more flexible and often less disruptive path for patients.

The core of the ASA’s updated stance is that most people taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss or diabetes no longer need to stop taking them before elective surgery. This is great news for many, reflecting a growing body of evidence and clinical experience that supports managing potential risks through other means rather than automatic cessation.

However, this updated guidance is not without its important caveats. It still emphasizes the need for caution in specific scenarios, particularly when individuals are starting these drugs or undergoing dose adjustments. These periods are when gastrointestinal side effects might be more pronounced, and the body is still adapting to the medication’s effects on gastric emptying.

A Consensus Across Medical Specialties

The ASA’s recommendations haven’t emerged in isolation. This updated approach has been broadly endorsed by numerous other professional doctor groups, encompassing specialists from gastroenterologists to bariatric surgeons. This widespread acceptance underscores a growing consensus within the medical community: with proper planning and communication, the benefits of continuing optimal blood sugar control for individuals with diabetes, or supporting ongoing weight management, can often outweigh the risks, especially when appropriate precautions are taken.

The collaborative endorsement from diverse medical specialties reflects a balanced understanding of managing both the benefits of GLP-1 therapies and the potential, albeit rare, risks during surgery. It’s a testament to the dedication of healthcare providers to ensure the safest and most effective care for their patients.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

This shift in guidance exemplifies a more nuanced approach to patient care, focusing on a careful assessment of individual circumstances. For many, continuing GLP-1 medications can be crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels or continuing on a positive weight loss trajectory. Interrupting therapy can sometimes disrupt progress, potentially leading to fluctuations in blood sugar or a temporary regain of weight, which could, in some cases, indirectly impact surgical readiness or recovery.

Anaesthesiologists are highly skilled and experienced in managing patients with various conditions that can affect gastric emptying. They possess a repertoire of techniques and protocols designed to minimize the risks associated with residual gastric contents during anesthesia. This expertise forms the foundation for the confidence behind the updated guidelines, allowing for a more tailored approach that prioritizes patient safety while respecting their ongoing health management needs.

This evolution means that instead of a one-size-fits-all rule, the focus is now on proactive communication, thorough pre-operative assessment, and individualized risk mitigation strategies. It empowers patients to have informed discussions with their healthcare team to determine the best course of action for their unique surgical journey.

Understanding the “Why”: How GLP-1s Interact with Surgical Procedures

To fully appreciate the updated guidance on GLP-1 medications and surgery, it’s helpful to delve deeper into the specific ways these drugs interact with the body, particularly in a surgical context. While the recent recommendations lean towards continuation for most elective surgeries, understanding the underlying physiological effects empowers you to have a more informed discussion with your healthcare providers.

Delayed Gastric Emptying: The Primary Consideration

As we’ve touched upon, the hallmark effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Mounjaro is their ability to slow down gastric emptying. This means that food and liquids remain in the stomach for a longer duration than usual. For individuals managing type 2 diabetes, this helps in more gradual glucose absorption, leading to better blood sugar control. For weight management, it contributes to increased satiety and reduced caloric intake.

However, in the context of surgery requiring general anesthesia or deep sedation, an empty stomach is traditionally paramount. The longer food stays in the stomach, the higher the theoretical risk of pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia when protective airway reflexes are compromised. Even if you follow standard fasting instructions (e.g., no food for 6-8 hours), the slowed emptying caused by Mounjaro could mean your stomach isn’t as empty as it would be if you weren’t taking the medication. This is why transparent communication with your surgical team is so vital.

Implications for Anesthesia

The anaesthetist’s primary goal is to ensure your safety throughout the procedure. Knowing that you are on a GLP-1 medication allows them to anticipate and plan for the possibility of delayed gastric emptying. They may employ specific techniques during the induction of anesthesia to further minimize aspiration risk. These might include:

• Modified Fasting Protocols: While traditional fasting remains important, your team might discuss additional pre-operative measures.
• Rapid Sequence Induction: A specific, rapid method of inducing anesthesia that aims to secure the airway quickly, often used when there’s a higher risk of aspiration.
• Careful Airway Management: Employing advanced techniques to protect your airway.

It’s crucial to remember that anaesthetists are highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in managing diverse patient profiles, including those with conditions that naturally slow gastric emptying. Their expertise is a key factor in the confidence behind the updated guidelines.

Blood Sugar Management and Surgical Stress

For individuals taking Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes, blood sugar control is another critical factor. Surgery places physiological stress on the body, which can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate significantly. Continuing Mounjaro might help maintain more stable blood sugar levels leading up to the procedure, which is generally beneficial for surgical outcomes and recovery. Uncontrolled blood sugar can increase the risk of infection and impair healing.

However, if a temporary cessation is recommended, your endocrinologist or primary care provider will work with your surgical team to create an alternative plan for managing your blood sugar during the pre-operative fasting period and immediately after surgery, often utilizing shorter-acting medications like insulin if necessary. This individualized plan ensures your diabetes is well-managed, even in the absence of your usual medication.

Hydration and Nutritional Status

Some people on GLP-1 medications may experience mild dehydration or reduced food intake due to decreased appetite or gastrointestinal side effects. Proper hydration and adequate nutritional status are crucial for surgical preparation and recovery. If you are experiencing significant nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea due to your medication, this could lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which might warrant a temporary pause or special considerations to optimize your condition before surgery. Your healthcare team will assess your overall health and hydration status to ensure you are in the best possible condition for your procedure.

Personalized Planning: When to Exercise Caution and How to Prepare

While the updated guidelines suggest that many individuals can continue their GLP-1 medications before elective surgery, a personalized approach is always paramount. There are specific circumstances where extra caution, modified preparation, or even a temporary pause in medication might be recommended. This is where open communication with your entire healthcare team becomes indispensable.

Situations Requiring Special Consideration or Potential Temporary Cessation

The decision to continue or pause Mounjaro before surgery is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Your healthcare team will consider several factors:

• Initiation or Dose Adjustment Periods: If you have recently started Mounjaro or are in the midst of a dose escalation (the first four to eight weeks of increasing doses), your body may still be adapting to the medication. During these phases, gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, or constipation can be more pronounced. Undergoing surgery during these periods might increase the risk of aspiration. Your team might recommend delaying the procedure or temporarily pausing the medication until you are on a stable dose with fewer side effects.
• Significant Gastrointestinal Side Effects: If you are experiencing persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, or constipation, these could indicate a higher likelihood of retained stomach contents. In such cases, your anaesthetist and surgeon may advise a temporary discontinuation of Mounjaro to mitigate risks.
• Other Medical Conditions Affecting Gastric Emptying: Certain pre-existing conditions, such as gastroparesis (even mild forms), diabetic neuropathy affecting the stomach, or neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, can independently slow gastric emptying. If you have any of these conditions in addition to taking Mounjaro, your risk profile is higher, and a more conservative approach regarding medication cessation may be necessary.
• Type of Surgery: While the new guidance applies to most elective surgeries, the specific type and complexity of the procedure might influence recommendations. For example, procedures that might inherently pose a higher risk of aspiration or involve extensive manipulation of the gastrointestinal tract could warrant closer consideration.

Pre-operative Precautions and Risk Mitigation Strategies

If you are on Mounjaro and scheduled for surgery, your healthcare team will likely implement specific strategies to enhance your safety:

• Transparent Communication: This cannot be stressed enough. Always inform your pre-assessment team, surgeon, and anaesthetist about ALL medications you are taking, including Mounjaro and any other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Be explicit about the dosage and how long you’ve been on it. Don’t assume they will know from your general medical records.
• Modified Fasting Guidelines: Your anaesthetist may provide specific, potentially altered, fasting instructions. This could include a liquid-only diet for 24 hours leading up to the procedure, rather than just the standard 6-8 hours of no food.
• Pre-operative Assessment: In some cases, your anaesthetist might perform an ultrasound of your stomach just before the procedure to visually assess stomach contents. This real-time information can guide their decision-making.
• Delayed Procedure: In rare instances, if significant risk factors are present (e.g., active GI side effects, recent dose increase, or clear evidence of retained gastric contents), your team might recommend delaying the elective procedure until your condition is optimized.

Emergency Surgery Scenarios

What about emergency surgeries where there’s no time for pre-operative adjustments? Anaesthetists are highly adept at managing these urgent situations. For emergency cases, specific techniques like rapid sequence induction are employed to secure the airway as quickly as possible, regardless of the patient’s stomach contents. While these situations present unique challenges, protocols are in place to manage the associated risks effectively.

At TrimRx, we emphasize that your safety and well-being are always the top priority. Our empathetic approach means we encourage you to engage fully with your medical team. If you’re on one of our personalized weight loss programs, which might include medications like Compounded Semaglutide, Oral Semaglutide, Ozempic®, Compounded Tirzepatide, Oral Tirzepatide, Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, or Wegovy®, we empower you to have these crucial discussions with your surgical team. For those exploring their options, taking our free assessment quiz is the first step toward a personalized plan and expert guidance.

The Benefits of Pre-Surgical Weight Management with Mounjaro

Beyond the immediate considerations of medication safety during anesthesia, Mounjaro and other GLP-1 medications can play a profoundly beneficial role in pre-surgical preparation, especially for individuals considering weight-loss surgery or other procedures where a lower body mass index (BMI) can improve outcomes.

Improved Surgical Outcomes and Reduced Complications

Pre-surgical weight loss, whether achieved through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination, is increasingly recognized as a vital component of optimizing patient readiness for surgery. Research, including insights presented at the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) 2024 Annual Scientific Meeting, highlights that medications similar to Mounjaro, when used appropriately before surgery, can significantly improve surgical outcomes and reduce the likelihood of complications.

For individuals with a higher BMI, even a modest reduction in weight before surgery can lead to numerous advantages:

• Reduced Anesthesia Risks: A lower BMI can make anesthesia administration safer by reducing the complexity of airway management and improving respiratory function.
• Decreased Surgical Site Infections: Excess body fat can increase the risk of infections at the surgical incision site. Weight loss helps mitigate this risk.
• Improved Wound Healing: Better blood flow and reduced tension on surgical sites contribute to more effective healing.
• Easier Surgical Access: For surgeons, a reduction in abdominal fat, for example, can make procedures technically easier and potentially reduce operative time.
• Lower Risk of Blood Clots: Weight loss is associated with a reduced risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), common post-surgical complications.

Some data suggests that pre-surgical use of medications like Mounjaro can help patients achieve a significant total body weight reduction, potentially enhancing surgical safety and recovery outcomes. This proactive approach underscores our belief at TrimRx that preparing your body for surgery is as important as the procedure itself.

Enhanced Recovery and Long-Term Success

The benefits of pre-surgical weight loss extend well into the recovery phase and contribute to long-term health. Patients who enter surgery in a healthier state often experience:

• Faster Recovery: With fewer complications and a stronger physiological baseline, recovery times can be shorter.
• Reduced Post-operative Pain: Less inflammation and stress on the body can lead to a more comfortable recovery.
• Greater Mobility: Improved fitness and reduced body mass can aid in earlier mobilization, which is crucial for preventing complications like pneumonia and blood clots.
• Foundation for Sustainable Habits: Engaging in a structured weight loss program before surgery helps individuals develop and reinforce healthy lifestyle habits—such as balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and stress management. These habits are not just for surgery; they are foundational for maintaining long-term health and preventing weight regain.

How TrimRx Supports This Journey

At TrimRx, our innovative approach merges cutting-edge telehealth with effective weight loss solutions, creating a supportive ecosystem for your entire health journey. We understand that medical weight loss, especially with medications like Mounjaro, is more than just a prescription; it’s a comprehensive process.

Our personalized weight loss programs are designed to help you achieve significant health improvements, whether as preparation for surgery or as part of an ongoing commitment to well-being. We offer compassionate care that respects every individual’s unique journey, combining advanced medical science with modern technology. Our comprehensive service includes doctor consultations, necessary lab work, medication provided through FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies (for branded medications like Ozempic® and Zepbound®, these are FDA approved; for compounded medications, they are prepared in FDA-registered and inspected facilities), unlimited support from our team, and convenient shipping, all with no hidden fees.

If you are considering surgery and believe pre-surgical weight management could benefit you, we encourage you to begin by taking our free assessment quiz. This quiz helps us determine your eligibility for our prescription weight loss medications, including options like Compounded Semaglutide, Oral Semaglutide, Ozempic®, Compounded Tirzepatide, Oral Tirzepatide, Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, and Wegovy®. This is the first step toward a personalized plan that can support your pre-surgical goals and set you on a path to a healthier future.

Post-Surgical Recovery and Resuming Your GLP-1 Journey

The period immediately following surgery is a critical phase focused on healing and recovery. Just as pre-surgical preparation requires careful consideration, so does the decision of when and how to resume your GLP-1 medication like Mounjaro.

When to Restart: A Doctor-Guided Decision

The timing for restarting Mounjaro after surgery is highly individualized and depends on several factors, most notably:

• Type and Extent of Surgery: A minor procedure with a quick recovery will likely allow for an earlier restart than a major abdominal surgery.
• Rate of Recovery: Your body’s response to surgery, including the resolution of any post-operative nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal discomfort, is a primary indicator.
• Return of Normal Digestive Function: Since Mounjaro slows digestion, it’s essential not to restart it until your digestive system is functioning normally. This typically means waiting until you can tolerate solid foods without significant nausea, vomiting, or discomfort. For many, this might be 24 to 48 hours after surgery, but it can vary widely.
• Your Doctor’s Specific Instructions: This is the most crucial point. Always consult with your surgeon and the doctor who prescribes your Mounjaro before restarting the medication. They may want to adjust your dose or have you ease back into the medication more slowly than you were taking it before surgery. If you experienced any complications during surgery or have a longer-than-expected recovery, your doctor might recommend a longer pause.

Monitoring Blood Sugar and Digestive Function

If you are taking Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes, your blood sugar levels will be closely monitored before, during, and after surgery. It’s possible you may need short-acting insulin or other diabetes medications in the immediate post-operative period to keep your blood sugar in check, especially if you had to pause Mounjaro. Once your blood sugar stabilizes and your regular eating habits resume, your doctor will guide you on how to safely restart your medication.

Throughout the recovery period, pay close attention to your body. Report any persistent nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits to your healthcare team. These symptoms could indicate that your digestive system isn’t quite ready for the medication, or they could signal other post-operative concerns that need attention.

At TrimRx, our commitment to transparent service means we are there to support you through every phase of your weight loss journey, including post-surgical recovery. While TrimRx partners with FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies for medication shipping and does not provide actual medical supervision, our holistic approach to care emphasizes education and empowering you to make informed decisions in consultation with your medical team. Our comprehensive service ensures that you have access to the resources and guidance to navigate these transitions smoothly, fostering confidence in your path to sustained health.

Beyond the Operating Room: Sustaining Weight Loss with TrimRx

Undergoing surgery, whether for weight loss or other medical reasons, can be a transformative experience. The preparation and recovery phases, especially when incorporating GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro, are integral parts of a larger health journey. At TrimRx, we are dedicated to supporting you not just through specific junctures like surgery, but in cultivating a sustainable, healthier lifestyle for the long term.

Our Commitment to Your Health Journey

Our brand is built on being empathetic, innovative, trustworthy, supportive, results-oriented, and personalized. We understand that sustainable weight loss is a marathon, not a sprint, and it requires a multi-faceted approach. Our platform is a user-friendly and supportive space where individuals receive personalized, medically supervised care, all designed to make sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to the individual. We believe that achieving and maintaining a healthy weight goes beyond just medication; it involves a commitment to holistic well-being.

TrimRx offers a comprehensive service designed to remove barriers and provide consistent support. This includes:

• Doctor Consultations: Personalized assessments and ongoing medical guidance.
• Medication: Access to clinically proven prescription medications, including options like Compounded Semaglutide, Oral Semaglutide, Ozempurs® (branded, FDA approved), Compounded Tirzepatide, Oral Tirzepatide, Mounjaro® (branded, FDA approved), Zepbound® (branded, FDA approved), and Wegovy® (branded, FDA approved). We partner exclusively with FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies for the shipping of these medications, ensuring quality and safety. We are transparent that while branded medications are FDA-approved, compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
• Lab Work: Essential blood tests to monitor your health and progress.
• Unlimited Support: Ongoing access to our care team to answer questions and provide encouragement.
• Shipping: Convenient, discreet delivery of your medications.
• No Hidden Fees: A transparent approach to all aspects of our service.

This comprehensive approach ensures that you have the tools and support needed to not only prepare for surgery but also to integrate the positive changes into your everyday life, fostering lasting results.

Continuing Your Path to Wellness with TrimRx

For those considering our personalized weight loss programs that involve prescription medications, the first step is always to take our free assessment quiz. This quiz helps us understand your unique health profile and determine if you qualify for medications such as Compounded Semaglutide, Oral Semaglutide, Ozempic®, Compounded Tirzepatide, Oral Tirzepatide, Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, or Wegovy®. It’s a crucial step in receiving a treatment plan that is precisely tailored to your needs and goals.

Beyond prescription medications, we recognize that overall wellness requires ongoing support. That’s why we also offer quick-access supplements designed to complement your weight loss journey and support overall health:

• GLP-1 Daily Support: A supplement crafted to support the body’s natural processes and enhance well-being.
• Weight Loss Boost: Designed to provide additional support to help optimize your metabolism and energy levels.

These supplements do not require the quiz and can be purchased immediately to integrate into your daily routine, providing foundational support for your continued health.

Our commitment extends to providing compassionate care that respects every individual’s unique journey. By combining advanced medical science with modern technology, we aim to be your trusted partner in achieving and maintaining a healthier, more vibrant life. Your journey to wellness is unique, and we are here to walk it with you.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of surgery while managing an ongoing medication regimen, especially with powerful GLP-1 agonists like Mounjaro, can feel daunting. However, the landscape of medical guidance is continuously evolving, now offering more nuanced and often less disruptive pathways for patients. The key takeaway from recent expert recommendations, particularly from the American Society of Anesthesiologists, is a significant shift: for most elective surgeries, the automatic cessation of GLP-1 medications is no longer universally required. This reflects a deeper understanding of these medications and the advanced capabilities of modern anesthetic care.

The cornerstone of a safe and successful surgical journey remains open and transparent communication with your entire healthcare team—your surgeon, anaesthetist, and prescribing physician. It is through these collaborative discussions that a personalized plan, accounting for your unique health profile, medication regimen, and the specific surgical procedure, can be formulated. Whether it involves specific pre-operative precautions, modified fasting instructions, or a temporary pause in medication, individualized care is paramount.

Moreover, we’ve seen how pre-surgical weight management with medications like Mounjaro can offer substantial benefits, from reducing surgical complications to enhancing recovery and laying a robust foundation for long-term healthy habits. At TrimRx, we are deeply committed to supporting you at every stage of this journey, merging cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective, personalized, and medically supervised weight loss solutions.

Our comprehensive service, which includes doctor consultations, necessary lab work, medication sourced from FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies, and unlimited support, is designed to empower you with the tools and guidance needed for sustainable weight loss. If you’re considering surgery or simply aiming for a healthier lifestyle, we invite you to take our free assessment quiz to explore our personalized prescription weight loss programs. For immediate support, our quick-access supplements, GLP-1 Daily Support and Weight Loss Boost, are readily available.

Your health journey is unique, and with science, empathy, and a transparent approach, we are here to support you in achieving your wellness goals, before, during, and after any surgical considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most up-to-date general recommendation for taking Mounjaro before elective surgery?

According to updated guidance from the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) (November 2024), most people taking GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro for weight loss or diabetes generally no longer need to stop taking them before elective surgery. However, this is a general recommendation, and personalized advice from your surgical team is essential.

Why was there concern about GLP-1 medications before surgery in the past?

The primary concern stemmed from GLP-1 medications, including Mounjaro, slowing down gastric emptying. This means food and liquids remain in the stomach for longer, increasing the theoretical risk of pulmonary aspiration (stomach contents entering the lungs) during general anesthesia or deep sedation, when protective reflexes are diminished.

In what specific situations might I still need to pause Mounjaro before surgery?

You might be advised to pause Mounjaro if you are newly starting the medication, are undergoing a dose adjustment period (the first 4-8 weeks), or are experiencing significant gastrointestinal side effects like persistent nausea, vomiting, or constipation. Additionally, if you have other medical conditions that independently slow gastric emptying, your surgical team may recommend a temporary cessation. Always discuss your specific situation with your doctor.

When can I restart Mounjaro after surgery?

The timing for restarting Mounjaro after surgery is highly individualized and depends on your recovery, the type of surgery, and your digestive system returning to normal function. It’s crucial to consult with both your surgeon and the prescribing doctor before resuming your medication. They will provide specific instructions based on your recovery progress and overall health.