Real-World Effectiveness of Oral Semaglutide in Indian Adult Diabetic Patients: Evaluation of EMR-based Data

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Diabetes is increasingly becoming a significant health concern globally, including in India, where its prevalence continues to increase. Being overweight often acts as a catalyst for developing diabetes, exacerbating the condition and increasing the risk of other serious health complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage. Peptide-based molecules like semaglutide have proved their efficacy in controlling glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and body weight in diabetic patients. Objective: The present study aims to determine the effectiveness of oral semaglutide in a real-world setting. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included patients ≥18 years of age prescribed oral semaglutide with a follow-up visit between 80 and 160 days post-prescription and had baseline body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2 and HbA1c levels ≤10.0%. The primary endpoints were to assess changes in HbA1c level, BMI, and body weight from the baseline. The secondary endpoints were to determine the changes in postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), fasting blood sugar (FBS), and blood pressure. The analysis also encompassed data on comorbid conditions and concomitant medications prescribed. Results: A total of 188 patients met the study eligibility criteria. At the follow-up visit, a statistically significant mean reduction of 0.34% in HbA1c levels and a weight loss of 1.83 kg were observed. The average duration between baseline and follow-up visit was 114.14 ± 21.5 days. The mean reduction in the BMI was 0.73 kg/m2 (P < 0.001). During the follow-up visit, the PPBS level decreased by 9.95 mg/dL and the FBS level decreased by 5.02 mg/dL. Additionally, the effect of semaglutide on blood pressure was evident, with a reduction in systolic blood pressure by 1.69 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 1.30 mm Hg. The most common comorbid condition was dyslipidemia (66.49%), followed by hypertension (51.60%) and obesity (39.36%). Conclusion: Semaglutide demonstrated significant reductions in glycemic parameters, body weight, and blood pressure.