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Patients' experiences with GLP1-RAs - a systematic review
Christoffer Kraul Ibsen1, Marius Brostrøm Kousgaard1, Sofie Olsen1
1Center for General Practice, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Background:
Obesity is a complex condition and a recognized public health challenge. Previous treatment options were associated with high failure rates, but recent trials have shown that significant weight loss can be achieved with GLP1-RAs. However, little is known about the patient's experiences with GLP1-RAs.
Objectives:
This paper systematically reviews research on patients' experience with GLP1-RAs.
Methods:
A literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase and Sociological Abstracts included studies on adults' experiences with GLP1-RAs, regardless of methodology. Exclusions of studies: mental illness, pregnancy, former bariatric surgery, PCOS. Study quality and transparency were assessed according to design, using thematic analysis for synthesis.
Results:
Nine studies, selected from 7,607 records, encompassed three qualitative studies (semi-structured interviews), three RCTs, two narrative reviews and one survey study. The analysis identified five key themes: (1) Patients are willing to accept adverse events, like gastrointestinal disorders, for successful weight loss, (2) Patients experience improved physical functioning, well-being, and active daily living as a result of weight loss, (3) Patients express diverse opinions and skills regarding the medication's usability, (4) Patients believe that the medication improves their ability to manage sweet cravings, (5) Gender seems to affect patients' experiences with the medication, with females reporting more benefits than males.
Conclusion:
Despite a huge demand and usage of GLP1-RAs, qualitative research on patients' experiences is scarce. Further studies are crucial for understanding short and long-term patient experiences.
Insights
Patients using glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) for obesity accept side effects for weight loss and report improved well-being. Understanding patient experiences with these popular obesity medications is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic disorders
- Pharmacology
- Patient-reported outcomes
Background:
- Obesity is a significant public health issue with limited effective treatments.
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) show promise for significant weight loss.
- Patient experiences with GLP1-RAs are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing research on patient experiences with GLP1-RAs.
- To synthesize qualitative and quantitative data on patient perspectives regarding GLP1-RAs for obesity management.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search across major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, Sociological Abstracts).
- Inclusion of studies on adult GLP1-RA users, excluding specific conditions like mental illness or PCOS.
- Thematic analysis of nine selected studies (qualitative, RCTs, reviews, survey) to synthesize findings.
Main Results:
- Patients tolerate adverse events, such as gastrointestinal issues, for successful weight loss.
- Weight loss achieved with GLP1-RAs leads to improved physical functioning and daily living.
- Patient experiences vary regarding medication usability, craving management, and gender-specific benefits.
Conclusions:
- Qualitative research on GLP1-RA patient experiences is limited despite high demand.
- Further research is essential to fully comprehend short- and long-term patient journeys with GLP1-RAs.
- Understanding patient perspectives can optimize obesity treatment strategies.
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