HCPs Hope GLP-1s will be Approved for Sleep Apnea and Other Conditions, New Survey Reveals

Stock.adobe.com

GLP-1s are the most discussed drug of 2024. While they were initially developed to treat diabetes, the drug’s ability to help with weight loss has made them extremely popular. So much so that in 2023, some companies had to limit the amount of new prescriptions in an attempt to match the demand. While the supply chain performed better in 2024, GLP-1s remain highly popular and have been approved for use in new indications.

According to a new survey, many HCPs are anxiously awaiting the medicine to be approved for even more uses, such as sleep apnea and heart failure.¹

Sermo conducted the survey, which included 1,150 healthcare professionals across the globe. The results show that GLP-1s potential to treat sleep apnea is receiving the most excitement.

In a press release, Sermo medical advisory board member Dr. Kyle Lee, BMLSc, BMBS, MPH, CCFP, said, “The expanding role of GLP-1 medications beyond weight loss, such as their potential to treat conditions like sleep apnea or chronic heart failure, represents an exciting shift in healthcare. For primary & family care, this evolution offers immense potential to address complex, interrelated conditions more effectively. However, it also underscores the need for comprehensive training and systems to support safe prescribing practices and close patient monitoring. As these therapies evolve, primary care will be at the forefront of integrating them into holistic, patient-centered management.”

The survey also looked into other aspects of GLP-1s. As previously stated, the drugs are very popular, which has strained the supply chain. While the supply has improved, the survey revealed that the vast majority of HCPs are concerned about patients adjusting the dosage of GLP-1 that they are taking.

There are reports that some patients are reducing their dosage without telling their prescribing doctors. Aside from attempts to stretch the limited supply, patients are also reportedly micro-dosing GLP-1s to reduce side effects. According to Sermos, the most commonly reported side effects for GLP-1s are nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Another troubling insight from the survey is the impact that Hollywood celebrities and other influencers are having on patients’ expectations for the medication. These weight loss drugs are extremely popular among celebrities, who are often using them to achieve weight loss goals beyond the norm. Patients are reportedly seeing the results celebrities are achieving and crediting to GLP-1s and then expecting similar results within unrealistic timetables.

The survey also revealed that only about a third of HCPs are reporting that they are actively weaning patients off of these drugs once they reach their weight loss goals.

Source

1. Sermo Barometer 35 Reveals HCPs Are Eager for GLP-1 Medications to Be Approved for New Uses, with Sleep Apnea Leading Over Chronic Heart Failure and MASH. Sermo. December 12, 2024. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212347886/en/Sermo-Barometer-35-Reveals-HCPs-Are-Eager-for-GLP-1-Medications-to-Be-Approved-for-New-Uses-with-Sleep-Apnea-Leading-Over-Chronic-Heart-Failure-and-MASH