The Effect of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Total Joint Arthroplasty: Implications, Complications, and
Kristen I Barton1, Riley J Boyle, Douglas A Dennis
1From the Colorado Joint Replacement (Barton, Boyle, Dennis, Jennings), AdventHealth, Denver, School of Physical Therapy (Barton), Western University, London, Canada, the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering (Dennis, Jennings), University of Denver, Denver, Department of Orthopaedics (Dennis), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Department of Biomedical Engineering (Dennis), University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, Department of Physical Therapy (Jennings), University of Delaware, Newark, DE.
Abstract:
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are used in diabetic patients for glycemic control. Yet, there has been a notable rise in their use for weight loss management in obese patients. This review critically appraises current evidence on perioperative implications of GLP-1 receptor agonists in TJA patients. The review discusses GLP-1 RA implications and use (physiology, pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, mechanisms of actions, and commonly used GLP-1 Ras), complications and adverse effects, considerations for the anesthesiologist, considerations for the TJA surgeon, and current clinical practice recommendations in 2025.
Related Concept Videos
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by the...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are typically...

