Abstract 17701: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Weight Loss Results from an Allied Health-Led Atrial Fibrillation Risk Factor Modification Clinic

Abstract

Introduction: Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is a global health threat associated with embolic stroke, heart failure, and death. Modifiable risk factors play a role in preventing and slowing the progression of AF. Obesity is one such modifiable risk factor with a strong association with AF. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA), semaglutide and liraglutide, are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for weight loss. Prescribing semaglutide and liraglutide for weight loss in AF patients seen in an allied health professional (AHP) risk factor modification clinic can potentially improve patient outcomes. Hypothesis: This study aims to determine weight change, side effects, and comorbidities for patients prescribed GLP1-RA in the AHP AF clinic. Methods: Following Institutional Review Board approval and exempt status, a retrospective chart review was conducted using the AF clinical registry for 95 consecutive patients followed over 90 days in the AHP clinic from January 1 to November 30, 2022, who were prescribed GLP1-RA by the AHP or had an existing prescription from a primary care provider or endocrinologist. Results: Patients totaled (n=95), aged 26-86 years, (36.8%) women, (80%) identified as white, (51.6%) persistent or (38.9%) paroxysmal AF, and (44.2%) underwent prior ablation. Comorbidity prevalence hyperlipidemia (55.8%), DM (33.7%), CHF (16.8%), and left ventricular ejection fraction >50% (85.3%). Patients receiving a GLP1-RA, either semaglutide (n=78, 82.1%) or liraglutide (n=17, 17.9%), experienced significant reductions in weight (Kg, 116.44 vs. 111.49, p<.001), (BMI, 38.54 vs. 36.68, p<.001), with no significant differences found in the reduction of weight (Kg/BMI) by GLP1-RA prescribed. Patients without DM experienced significantly greater reductions in weight than those with DM (Kg, p<.012, BMI, p<.07). Those without CHF also experienced significantly greater reductions in weight, (Kg, p<.05, BMI, p<.05), than those with CHF. Side effects experienced by 10.5% included nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Conclusion: GLP1-RA has shown significance for weight loss for AF patients seen in the AHP AF lifestyle clinic. The next steps should include evaluating AF burden before and after weight loss on the medication.