Outcomes in GLP-1 RA-Experienced Patients Switching to Once-Weekly Semaglutide in a Real-World Setting: The Retrospective, Observational EXPERT Study

TLDR: In this paper, the authors investigated the effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists on glycaemic control and weight loss in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) using US electronic health records and prescription data.

Abstract: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are highly effective for glycaemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In this retrospective, observational study, we analysed glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and weight following switching to semaglutide from any other GLP-1 RA, using US electronic health records and prescription data. Adults (≥ 18 years old) with T2D required at least one prescription for injectable semaglutide at index date (treatment switch), at least one prescription for any other GLP-1 RA in the previous 365 days, a baseline HbA1c and/or weight measurement in the 90 days pre-index and a follow-up measurement at 180 and 365 days post-index. HbA1c and weight cohorts were analysed separately using an ANCOVA model. Sensitivity analyses were conducted in patients with at least two prescriptions for pre-switch GLP-1 RA. A secondary analysis compared subgroups receiving different GLP-1 RAs pre-switch. Patients with HbA1c (n = 710) and weight (n = 921) data had similar baseline characteristics. Significant reductions in HbA1c at 6 months (0.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] − 0.8, − 0.6) were sustained at 12 months. Weight reductions were significant at 6 months (− 2.1 kg; 95% CI − 2.6, − 1.6) and greater at 12 months (− 2.8 kg; 95% CI − 3.9, − 1.8). These patterns were consistent with the two-prescription sensitivity analysis and independent of the pre-switch GLP-1 RA. Switching to injectable semaglutide from any other GLP-1 RA was associated with significant improvements in glycaemic control and weight. Our findings support decision-making in clinical practice in patients with an indication to switch between GLP-1 RAs.