Anti-Obesity Med Side Effects Misidentified as Surgical Complications: A Warning for Anesthesiologists
Blamed but not at fault: Anti-obesity medication adverse effects misidentified as perioperative complications - a comprehensive review and medicolegal warning for anesthesiologists.
Background
The global rise in obesity has led to increased use of anti-obesity medications (AOMs), including GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are highly effective but carry known gastrointestinal side effects. In the perioperative period (the time around surgery), these AOM-related adverse effects can present symptoms that closely mimic surgical complications. This review addresses the critical knowledge gap regarding the potential for misidentifying AOM adverse effects as true perioperative complications, which can lead to inappropriate patient management and significant medicolegal risks for anesthesiologists.
Study Design
Population
This review addresses a critical knowledge gap regarding patients using anti-obesity medications in the perioperative period.
Intervention
The review focuses on anti-obesity medications (AOMs), including GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Outcome
The primary outcome is the potential for misidentifying AOM adverse effects as true perioperative complications.