Gastric Emptying scan protocol restrictions added

GLP-1 agonists and marijuana can skew results, see restrictions

The Salem Health Nuclear Medicine Gastric Emptying scan protocol was updated to include additional restrictions on June 19. 

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists have become popular in the treatment of diabetes and are used to support weight loss as well. Part of the mechanism of these medications includes slowing gastric emptying.

Accurate results of a gastric emptying study would be skewed in patients with GLP-1 agonists on board and the use of a gastric emptying study to evaluate the efficacy of GLP-1 agonist therapy is not well-studied and cannot be relied upon for diagnostic value.

• GLP-1 agonists will need to be held prior to a Gastric Emptying study 72 hours for daily therapies and four weeks for weekly therapies.

Marijuana use for medical and recreational use is becoming increasingly common. Evidence shows that marijuana use can slow gastric emptying. To provide an accurate gastric emptying result, abstaining from marijuana use will be required.

• Marijuana use will need to be held prior to a gastric emptying study for 48 hours.

Questions? Contact Kaleb Mccann, Nuclear Medicine tech lead, at 503-814-1343 or kaleb.mccann@salemhealth.org.