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Weighing the Risks: Small Bowel Obstruction Associated With Semaglutide Use in the Postoperative Abdomen
Natalie Nagib1, Daniela Avila1, Joanna Partyka2
1Medicine, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton, USA.
Cureus
|August 27, 2025
Summary
Semaglutide, a weight loss drug, can cause serious gastrointestinal issues like small bowel obstruction in patients with prior abdominal surgery. Caution is advised when prescribing this GLP-1 agonist to at-risk individuals.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is widely used for weight management.
- While generally safe, potential gastrointestinal complications require further investigation.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old female with a history of extensive abdominal surgeries developed small bowel obstruction.
- The obstruction occurred shortly after initiating semaglutide treatment.
Findings:
- Semaglutide's known effects on gastric motility may contribute to SBO.
- This case highlights a potential link between semaglutide and SBO in susceptible patients.
Implications:
- Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing semaglutide to patients with a history of abdominal surgeries.
- Consideration of intra-abdominal adhesions is crucial in patients at risk for SBO.
- Further research is needed to fully understand GLP-1 agonists' gastrointestinal risks.
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