(0321) Ozempic-Otolaryngology Perspective

Introduction: Ozempic and the new GLP-1 agonists draw significant attention. While being an instant hit and serving as an additional tool in OSA, side effects are mounting, including in otolaryngology. We would like to add a new side effect, specific to otolaryngology, asides GERD and thyroid cancer, namely patulous eustachian tube.

Methods: This was a retrospective case review. A chart review was performed on a patient prescribed Ozempic for diabetes. No other intervention was recorded. As a result of the medication, the patient lost 80 pounds.

Results: Patient experienced increasing aural pressure, discomfort autophony, and hearing own breathing. A nasal endoscopy showed patulous eustachian tube (PET)

Conclusions: Weight loss is a known cause of PET. By loss of Ostman fat pad located at the superior and posterior portion of the Eustachian tube opening, the tensor veli palatini fails to fill in the open space, thus leaving the tube open. It is important to educate on this possible side effect and shout a dire warning for those who might attempt treating this condition with dilation of the Eustachian tube. We believe that whether a patient is treated with GLP-1 agonists should be a routine for the otolaryngologist due to the mounting side effects in this specialty.