The demand for GLP-1 agonists, such as Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy (semaglutide), continues to soar. Initially developed for type 2 diabetes, these drugs have gained immense popularity for their weight management benefits. The FDA’s approval of Wegovy for cardiovascular indications and its potential use for chronic kidney disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) further highlights the promising future of these treatments.
However, a closer look at real-world data reveals a different picture. While clinical trials demonstrated significant weight loss with GLP-1s, real-world evidence suggests a more modest impact. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that patients achieved an average weight reduction of only 3.7% after one year on the drugs, lower than the results reported in controlled trials. This discrepancy highlights the challenge of translating clinical trial success into everyday medical settings.
Persistence with GLP-1 medications is a significant factor influencing treatment outcomes. Data from pharmacy benefit manager Prime Therapeutics indicates that only 15% of patients who started GLP-1 drugs for weight loss remained on them after two years. Discontinuation rates were high, with just 29% continuing treatment after one year and a mere 15% after two years. Other studies, including findings from Blue Cross Blue Shield, show a similar trend, with many patients stopping GLP-1 therapy early, often within the first month, before achieving meaningful weight loss.
Several factors contribute to this high discontinuation rate. Patients may experience side effects, struggle with medication adherence, or face financial barriers. Additionally, the perceived slow pace of weight loss compared to expectations built upon clinical trial data can lead to frustration and abandonment of treatment.
Despite these challenges, the research suggests that those who persist with GLP-1 therapy see results comparable to those observed in clinical trials. However, the need for consistent and long-term adherence for optimal outcomes remains a crucial aspect of managing expectations and treatment success. This underlines the importance of ongoing patient education and support to ensure adherence and optimize the benefits of GLP-1 therapy.
