Researchers from the Evernorth Research Institute in St. Louis conducted a study to understand the prevalence of discontinuation of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists among new users with either type 2 diabetes or obesity. They also explored the patient characteristics associated with discontinuation. Here are the main points:
- Prevalence of Discontinuation:
- GLP-1 agonist discontinuation rates were as follows:
- Three months: 26.2%
- Six months: 30.8%
- Twelve months: 36.5%
- Patients with obesity had a higher prevalence of discontinuation at 12 months compared to those with type 2 diabetes only or both conditions.
- GLP-1 agonist discontinuation rates were as follows:
- Factors Associated with Discontinuation:
- Patients who were Black or Hispanic, male, and Medicare or Medicaid enrollees had higher odds of discontinuation.
- Living in areas with very high levels of social needs was associated with increased discontinuation.
- Patients with obesity only, heart failure, or other cardiovascular conditions at baseline were more likely to discontinue.
- New gastrointestinal adverse effects at follow-up also increased the odds of discontinuation.
- Older patients had lower odds of discontinuation.
- Financial Impact:
- Each one-percentage point increase in out-of-pocket cost per a 30-day supply of GLP-1 agonist was associated with increased odds of discontinuation.
The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to improve medication adherence.
Discontinuation could have implications for policy and medication coverage, especially if weight reduction is not sustained after medications are discontinued1
