# The Role of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonists in Acute Cholecystitis After a Routine Colonoscopy: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 66-year-old woman on semaglutide developed acute cholecystitis after a colonoscopy, suggesting a possible link between GLP-1 receptor agonists and this rare complication.

## Contribution

This case report highlights a potential association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and acute cholecystitis following colonoscopy.

## Key findings

- A patient on semaglutide developed acute cholecystitis within 72 hours of a colonoscopy.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists may affect gallbladder motility, potentially increasing the risk of acute cholecystitis.
- Further research is needed to determine if a washout period for GLP-1 agonists before colonoscopy is necessary.

## Abstract

Colonoscopy (CLN) is a common procedure for colon cancer screening and diagnosing various conditions. Acute cholecystitis (AC), though rare, has been reported as a complication. We present a 66-year-old female on semaglutide for obesity who developed AC within 72 hours post-CLN. Considering the increasing use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and their impact on gallbladder motility, these medications may contribute to this complication. Future research is crucial to investigate whether a washout period for GLP-1 agonists before CLN is needed to reduce the risk of AC, if such a risk exists.