Glycemic Outcomes Associated With GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Shortages in Type 2 Diabetes.

INTRODUCTION

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) are integral in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to glycemic control, weight loss, and cardio-renal benefits. National shortages beginning in 2022 limited access to these medications. This study assessed the effect of GLP-1 RA shortages on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and other outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective pre-post cohort study of patients with T2DM prescribed dulaglutide or semaglutide before March 2022 at Cleveland Clinic Akron General. The primary outcome was HbA1c change from preshortage to shortage periods. Secondary outcomes included prevalence of patients affected, weight change, and provider responses.

RESULTS

Of 177 patients, 55 (31.1%) were affected. Median HbA1c increased by+0.4% (P<0.001), while weight decreased by -4.33 kg (95% CI -6.50 to -2.16, P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

The GLP-1 RA shortage adversely affected glycemic control, underscoring the need for improved management strategies during supply disruptions.