Navigating GLP-1 Medications in Anti-Obesity Treatment

Brian Laird

In recent years, the healthcare landscape has witnessed a transformative shift in the management of obesity, particularly with the advent of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These medications, initially designed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, have emerged as potent tools in the fight against obesity. As a healthcare and pharmacy leader, it is crucial to explore the implications, trends, and opportunities presented by GLP-1 medications in the anti-obesity space.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications mimic the natural hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. By increasing feelings of fullness and reducing hunger, they can lead to average weight loss of 10-15% in clinical trials. This effectiveness has drawn interest from both healthcare providers and patients seeking long-term weight management solutions.

Industry Trends

  1. Rising Obesity Rates: Over 42% of U.S. adults are affected by obesity, highlighting the need for effective treatments like GLP-1 medications.
  2. Broadened Indications: The FDA now recognizes GLP-1 medications for obesity treatment, allowing their integration into comprehensive weight management programs.
  3. Increased Awareness: There’s growing recognition of obesity as a chronic disease, driving demand for pharmacological treatments.
  4. Supply Shortages: Over 70% of patients have had to skip doses over the last 2 years as manufacturers struggle to keep up with the growing demand for GLP-1 medications.
  5. High Costs: The expensive nature of these medications often leads to reduced adherence and therapy discontinuation, with over 25% of therapy discontinuation being caused by cost.*

Opportunities for Healthcare Leaders

As we navigate this evolving landscape, several opportunities arise for healthcare and pharmacy leaders to enhance the impact of GLP-1 medications in anti-obesity treatment.  It is important to have an integrating multidisciplinary approachA collaborative approach to obesity management that includes dietitians, psychologists, and exercise specialists can enhance the effectiveness of GLP-1 medications. By creating multidisciplinary teams, we can address the multifaceted nature of obesity and provide patients with holistic support. Additionally, developing personalized treatment plans based on patient needs, preferences, and comorbidities can lead to better adherence and outcomes. Utilizing pharmacogenomics and patient history can guide decisions about which GLP-1 medication may be most effective for a particular individual. Finally, leveraging data and technology can help healthcare organizations track patient progress and outcomes. By analyzing treatment data, we can identify trends and areas for improvement, ultimately refining our approach to obesity management. Additionally, technology tools can be used to manage the patient experience, and access to medications.

Creating a comprehensive solution that starts with the patient, and walks them through treatment, support education, access to drugs, and provides all available pharmaceutical assistance to discount prices is imperative.  Most solutions currently in the market do not provide such a comprehensive solution.  

Waltz X Noom are partnering on the first end-to-end weight loss management solution.

We recently announced our partnership with Noom in their launch of SmartRx, a pharmacy solution that offers transparent, discounted pricing for GLP-1 medications. This collaboration provides:

Powered by Waltz Connect, the collaboration offers a model that supports employers and payers, while focusing on individualized patient care through proprietary protocols and carefully designed treatment pathways. On average, patients are matched with their medications in under 1 day, offering fast and reliable access with clear pricing. This means members get the treatment they need without delays or surprises.

The rise of GLP-1 medications offers a substantial opportunity for healthcare leaders to drive meaningful change in obesity treatment. By leveraging industry trends and prioritizing patient-centered care, we can enhance the effectiveness of these innovative therapies. Embracing these opportunities will help redefine obesity treatment and improve patient health and well-being.

Smart Solutions with Waltz Connect

Waltz Connect helps patients find the best pharmacy option based on cost and availability. Our technology ensures a smooth process and reduces costs for plans and patients. We offer full support for the GLP-1 journey, addressing cost, access, and eligibility issues proactively and connect with patients in a way they prefer to ensure they stay on track and manage their treatment effectively.

Interested in learning more about how Waltz Connect can work for your organization? Send us a note at waltzhealth.com/contact-us.

Brian Laird

Senior Vice President


*Waltz Health GLP-1 User Research, Q3 2024