Endocrine Abstracts

Background: Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists have been used in treating type 2 diabetes and, more recently, in promoting weight loss in high-risk obese patients without diabetes. This audit aimed to assess the effectiveness of Saxenda (Liraglutide 3.0 mg) on clinical parameters of patients in a Weight Management Clinic in a District General Hospital in the UK and determine the impact of the national shortage of Saxenda on these patients.

Methods: A total of 19 patients who attended the clinic between 2022 and 2023 and were treated with Saxenda in line with NICE guidelines were included. Data on weight, BMI, HbA1c, lipids, and co-morbidities were collected from clinical records before and after starting Saxenda to evaluate its efficacy and detect weight regain following the drug shortage. T-tests were used to compare the findings.

Results: The mean baseline characteristics (range) were as follows: weight 130.0 kg (92.7–171.0), BMI 44.97 kg/m² (31.70–60.59); HbA1c 41.4 mmol/mol (28-47). These patients were at high cardiovascular disease risk with 12/19 diagnosed with cardiac co-morbidities. Following Saxenda, significant weight loss of -9.58 kg or 7.37% (3.15%–27.35%; P < 0.001); a significant BMI reduction was observed: -3.52 kg/m², P < 0.05. There was a borderline significant reduction in HbA1c levels: -2.44 mmol/mol, P < 0.05. Minor improvements in cholesterol were observed.

Conclusion: This audit highlights the effectiveness of Saxenda for weight loss in a real-world setting on high-risk pre-diabetic patients with obesity. It also underscores the need for consistent drug supply and better documentation of key clinical parameters in patient records. Recommendations include the reintroduction of Saxenda or an alternative such as Wegovy or Mounjaro alongside creating a standardized template for clinic letters.