Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, first approved 20 years ago for type 2 diabetes, have recently revolutionized the treatment of obesity, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Emerging research indicates that these medications may offer further therapeutic advantages.
These medications are currently being studied for use in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), neurodegenerative diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and even gastrointestinal disorders and mental health conditions.
A recent study from the Evernorth Research Institute, published in the Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research, has found that GLP-1s could significantly reduce mental health outpatient hospital and office visits for adults with type 2 diabetes. The research, which analyzed data from nearly 775,000 adults, examined the association of mental health care utilization for comorbid depression and anxiety among patients with type 2 diabetes who were prescribed GLP-1s, compared with similar patients who were prescribed another class of diabetes medication called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4is).
Key findings revealed that GLP-1 patients had a 4% reduction in outpatient hospital visits and a 13% reduction in office visits for depression, as well as a 15% reduction in office visits for anxiety, compared to those prescribed DPP-4is. There was no significant difference in emergency or inpatient visits.
The study also noted that the reductions were more pronounced with specific GLP-1s, including semaglutide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide.
Reduction in depression-related health care resource utilization with GLP-1s compared to DPP-4is
Reduction in anxiety-related health care resource utilization with GLP-1s compared to DPP-4is
These findings suggest that GLP-1s may offer benefits beyond managing blood sugar; benefits for depression and anxiety in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additional research exploring the long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness of GLP-1s for managing mental health conditions among patients with type 2 diabetes, with a focus on accessibility across diverse patient populations, is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for optimizing the use of GLP-1s in type 2 diabetes treatment plans.
Guidance and support throughout the GLP-1 journey is paramount
Offering guidance and support throughout a person’s GLP-1 journey is crucial for several reasons:
- Proper usage: Ensuring that patients understand how to correctly use GLP-1 medications helps maximize their effectiveness and minimizes potential side effects.
- Adherence: Ongoing support encourages patients to stick to their treatment plan, which is vital for achieving desired health outcomes.
- Education: Providing information about lifestyle changes, such as nutrition and exercise, can enhance the benefits of GLP-1 therapy.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ins allow health care providers to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
- Emotional support: Managing a chronic condition can be challenging, and emotional support can help patients stay motivated and positive.
Evernorth cares for many patients prescribed GLP-1 therapies through its Evernorth EnGuide Pharmacy, powered by CHD. This home delivery pharmacy is focused exclusively on dispensing GLP-1s and is staffed by clinicians with specialized knowledge in these therapies, including how to best manage comorbid conditions. EnGuide Pharmacy also offers extended payment plans and available manufacturer coupon options to eligible patients to help them manage their out-of-pocket costs.
“Like any medication, any new and existing benefits of GLP-1s are only valuable when people can access these medications and properly take them as prescribed,” said Dr. Anna Evans, clinical counseling pharmacist at Express Scripts. “As more indications of GLP-1s emerge, EnGuide Pharmacy will continue to ensure patients receive the most appropriate care and achieve the best outcomes possible.”
