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Diabetes Therapy
Published in: Diabetes Therapy 4/2019

Open Access 01-08-2019 | Sulfonylurea | Review

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Type 2 Diabetes and Their Role in Primary Care: An Australian Perspective

Authors: Roy Rasalam, John Barlow, Mark Kennedy, Pat Phillips, Alan Wright

Published in: Diabetes Therapy | Issue 4/2019

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Abstract

The ever-increasing number of drugs available to treat type 2 diabetes and the complexity of patients with this condition present a constant challenge when it comes to identifying the most appropriate treatment approach. The more recent glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are non-insulin injectable options for the management of type 2 diabetes. Effective at improving glycaemic control with a low intrinsic risk of hypoglycaemia and the potential for weight reduction, this agent class is an important addition to the prescribing armamentarium. However, understanding their place in therapy may prove confusing for many primary care practitioners, especially given the common belief that ‘injectables’ are a last-resort treatment option, which puts them at risk of being niched alongside insulin. This review summarises the clinical evidence for GLP-1RAs and how they compare to other glucose-lowering agents in managing type 2 diabetes. It also provides practical and case-driven opinions and recommendations on the optimal use of GLP-1RAs by discussing important patient factors and clinical considerations that will help to identify those who are most likely to benefit from this class of agents.
Funding: Eli Lilly Australia.
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Metadata
Title
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Type 2 Diabetes and Their Role in Primary Care: An Australian Perspective
Authors
Roy Rasalam
John Barlow
Mark Kennedy
Pat Phillips
Alan Wright
Publication date
01-08-2019
Publisher
Springer Healthcare
Published in
Diabetes Therapy / Issue 4/2019
Print ISSN: 1869-6953
Electronic ISSN: 1869-6961
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13300-019-0642-2

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WHO estimates that half of all patients worldwide are non-adherent to their prescribed medication. The consequences of poor adherence can be catastrophic, on both the individual and population level.

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