Abstract:
Glucagon-Like-Peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1) and dual receptor agonists targeting Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide (GIP) present a novel treatment approach for obesity. Insight into the GLP-1 patient experience is limited.
Aim: To explore the perspectives of individuals using GLP-1s for weight loss.
Methods: An email survey (1) targeting individuals currently using GLP-1s (semaglutide, tirzepatide) was conducted. In parallel to this, a separate survey (2) sent to former MedExpress customers analysed the reasons for treatment discontinuation. This was followed by an 8 week diary study, where individuals currently using GLP-1s used video diary entries to provide deeper insights into their weight loss journey by answering questions each week. The surveys were analysed using descriptive statistics, while the diary study was analysed using thematic analysis.
Results: Survey (1) (n=1659, 1489 female), aged 20-75, demonstrated 55% had attempted weight loss for over 10 years before trying GLP-1s. Key barriers to weight loss recognised by customers were eating habits (n=923), menopause (n= 579), stress (n=567), lack of movement (n=528), age (n=442), genetics (n=370), other medical conditions (n=350) and income and finances (n=108). Motivators to weight loss were: reduction in weight-related health risks (n=731), improved body satisfaction (n=559), improved symptoms of current health conditions (n=230) and increase in daily energy (n=125). The treatment discontinuation survey (n=301) demonstrated 30% had discontinued treatment due to cost (43%),not reaching weight loss goals (14%) side effects (12%).
The diary study (n=18) aligned with the email survey findings, with barriers identified including emotional eating, menopause, and obesity-related mobility issues. In particular patients reported GLP-1s dampened ‘food noise’ and increased satiety, improving their eating habits and thus overcoming the biggest perceived barrier to weight loss. Novel insights revealed deterrents to GLP-1s included stigma, and cost. Some people built lifestyle changes around GLP 1 use, while others relied entirely on the medication for results.
Discussion: Top perceived barriers to weight loss were eating habits, menopause and stress. Potential to reduce weight related health risks was the primary motivator identified and clinicians should integrate these factors into obesity consultations.
Audience take away notes:
- Understand patient perspectives on why they aren’t losing weight/why they want to
- Bring these areas into the consultation including reference to menopause, eating plan etc
- Sharing the experiences of patients accessing obesity medication in a virtual setting
