Transforming diabetes and obesity treatment: GLP-1’s

GLP-1’s have been surging in popularity because of their potential in helping people with diabetes as well the possibility of having weight-loss benefits. A recent research study conducted by Optum Rx sheds light on this growing impact of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists in the management of diabetes and obesity. This study highlights the efficacy, safety and market trends associated with GLP-1’s, and provides valuable insights for health care professionals and plan sponsors. 

Insight 1: GLP-1’s may be a paradigm shift in treatment

Traditionally, anti-obesity medications were excluded from many plans due to concerns about efficacy and their perception as lifestyle medications. However, the emergence of GLP-1’s has changed this perspective, as these medications have not only demonstrated significant weight loss but have also shown cardiovascular benefits. Combined, it makes this class of medications a promising option for chronic disease management.

Insight 2: Advantages of different approved GLP-1’s

The Optum study offers an overview of seven GLP-1’s approved for diabetes management, with three of them demonstrating cardiovascular benefits. Among these, Mounjaro, a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) / GLP-1, has shown greater A1C reduction compared to other GLP-1’s. However, data on its cardiovascular benefits are yet to be available.

When it comes to obesity treatment, two GLP-1’s stand out: Wegovy and Saxenda. Wegovy has shown superior weight loss results (8% to 15% of body weight) compared to Saxenda (5% to 7% of body weight). Both medications are considered safer than earlier non-GLP-1 obesity medications, making them potential replacements for these older weight loss therapies.

Insight 3: Impact on overall and traditional trends

GLP-1’s have emerged as the top drivers of therapy class trends in both the overall and traditional (non-specialty) drug categories. Combined, diabetes and obesity GLP-1’s contributed to 53% of the overall trend and a staggering 97% of the traditional trend. This highlights the significant influence of GLP-1’s on health care costs and utilization.

Insight 4: Trend and spend overview

The study emphasizes the importance of measuring both the trend and spend associated with GLP-1’s. While the trend of obesity GLP-1s increased at a higher rate compared to diabetes GLP-1s, the spend for diabetes GLP-1s was significantly higher. This indicates the greater utilization and cost burden of diabetes GLP-1’s in comparison.

Insight 5: Demographic profiles of obesity GLP-1 utilizers

Analyzing the demographic profiles of individuals using obesity GLP-1’s, the study found that approximately 82% of utilizers were female. Additionally, nearly half of all utilizers fell within the age range of 35–54, revealing the target population for obesity GLP-1’s.

With their demonstrated efficacy, cardiovascular benefits, and potential for weight loss, GLP-1’s are reshaping the landscape of chronic disease management. However, the Optum study also reveals the need for careful evaluation of the associated costs and utilization patterns. By understanding the market trends and demographic profiles, health care professionals and plan sponsors can make informed decisions to optimize patient outcomes and manage health care costs effectively, making the most of the possible impact of GLP-1’s in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. 

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