Introduction: In both randomized controlled trials and real-world studies, liraglutide has demonstrated glycemic and body weight benefits in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, persistence with diabetes medication can be challenging. This study compared glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and other outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes who continued treatment with liraglutide for over 12 months with those who discontinued treatment earlier, in a real-life setting.
Methods: This is a retrospective study of adult patients with type 2 diabetes from Maccabi Healthcare Services in Israel, who initiated treatment with liraglutide from 2010 to 2015. Mean HbA1c and body weight change from initiation to after 24 months was compared between patients who received liraglutide for at least 12 months ("continuers") and those who discontinued within the first year ("discontinuers"). Adjustment for HbA1c, body weight, and other potentially confounding factors was performed using 1:1 propensity score matching.
Results: The 3580 patients comprised 2695 continuers and 885 discontinuers; 882 patients per group were matched. A significant (p < 0.001) reduction in HbA1c (- 0.80% vs - 0.32%) was seen in continuers compared with discontinuers, despite higher insulin usage (70.2% vs 59.0%; p < 0.001), and a higher proportion of patients using ≥ 3 oral glucose-lowering drugs (20.6% vs 6.2%; p < 0.001) at 24 months among discontinuers. Mean body weight reduction was greater in continuers than discontinuers (3.57 vs 1.25 kg; p < 0.001).
Conclusion: In a real-world setting, persistent use of liraglutide was associated with good glycemic and body weight control.
Funding: Novo Nordisk Health Care AG.
Keywords: Body weight; HbA1c; Liraglutide; Long-term treatment; Persistence; Type 2 diabetes.