Utilization of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists

A number of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), are now indicated for conditions outside of T2DM (e.g., weight management). Currently, reimbursement of a GLP-1 RA in Canada is only available for patients with T2DM and is conditional upon its use as part of an antidiabetic regimen involving combination pharmacological therapy. However, as the T2DM formulations of GLP-1 RAs are already on the market, it is possible that physicians may already be prescribing these medications to patients for other indications. More specifically, lixisenatide (Adlyxine) and semaglutide (Ozempic) are listed as an open or a general benefit on some public drug plan formularies. Therefore, there was a need to understand how GLP-1 RAs are used across Canada and ensure their use is appropriate. This analysis assessed the market share, dosing patterns, drug expenditures, and prior and concurrent antidiabetic drug use of GLP-1 RA claimants in Canada.