MeRIT Primer Participants – Proposed Research
Sunday, October 13, 2024
12:45 PM–02:15 PM
Abstract
Introduction: Novel, costly anti-obesity medication (AOM) treatments, such as semaglutide, have demonstrated significant weight loss in clinical trials. Data on real-world use of this AOM is lacking, especially regarding how persistent use can maximize weight loss and justify cost.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Evaluate real-world use of semaglutide for obesity treatment. The primary outcome will be persistence and its impact on weight loss. Secondary outcomes will be adherence to therapy, adherence to approved dosing strategy, and impact on weight loss.
Study Design: Retrospective, cohort, observational study
Methods: Data from 2021-2024 will be collected and include prescription claims data along with demographic and clinical data extracted from the electronic medical record (EMR) of a single health-system. Adult beneficiaries with a BMI of =30 and at least one prescription claims for semaglutide within the collection period will be included. Index date will be defined as the first claim filed, all refill data obtained up to 12 months and EMR data subsequently collected at 6 and 12-months. Persistence will be defined as the absence of a therapy gap exceeding 60 days within 12-months and adherence will be defined as proportion of days covered (PDC) =80%. Adherence to approved dosing strategy will be assessed by coding of claims data based on doses of semaglutide used in titration to approved maintenance doses. Codes will be translated to categories of adherence based on alignment with titration schedule, and real-world use will be compared by these categories.
Results: A minority of patients are expected to meet criteria for persistence or adherence. Weight loss is anticipated to be less than that demonstrated in clinical trials.
Conclusion: Low persistence of semaglutide use may negatively impact weight loss yet describe real-world use. Persistence, adherence to therapy, and adherence to approved dosing strategy may yield greater weight loss.
Presenting Author
Angela Baalmann PharmD, BCACPHigh Point University
Authors
Sean Avedissian PharmD, PhD, MSc
University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Pharmacy
Julie Cooper PharmD
High Point University
Karen Farris R.Ph., Ph.D.
Univeristy of Michigan College of Pharmacy