Various GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Preference Use with a Special Focus on Oral and Subcutaneous Forms in Poland

Background: Since the introduction of the first GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) in 2005, there has been a steady increase in the number of drugs available in this group, as well as an expansion of their indications and routes of administration. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the clinical characteristics of patients treated with GLP-1 RA in Poland in 2018-2024, with particular emphasis on the disease entities constituting indications for treatment (like obesity and diabetes), and to analyse the frequency of use of individual drugs during the study period. Methods: A cohort study was conducted based on anonymised medical data from 300 outpatient clinics the largest private healthcare facilities in Poland (Luxmed), on consecutive patients who had at least one prescription for GLP-1 RA. The analysis covered the period from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2024. Results: The number of patients using GLP-1 RA increased from 212 in 2018 to 12,836 in 2024. Obesity was diagnosed in 78% of all patients, most often in the groups using liraglutide and tirzepatide. The highest percentage of patients with type 2 diabetes was observed in the dulaglutide group (67%), while the lowest was in the tirzepatide group (15%). From 2022, the share of oral semaglutide steadily increased, reaching 50% of all semaglutide applications in 2024 in Poland. Conclusions: In the analysed group, GLP-1 RAs were most commonly used to treat obesity. The oral form of semaglutide was more frequently used in younger females with less aggravating medical history.