Semaglutide is a new type of injectable medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, an intestinal hormone that stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells. This leads to better control of blood glucose levels. Some key points about semaglutide:
- Recently approved by the FDA as an adjunct treatment for type 2 diabetes
- Can be used alone or added to other diabetes medications like metformin
- Available as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection (under the skin)
- Shows superior A1c reduction compared to other GLP-1 drugs in clinical trials
- Also causes moderate weight loss as a side effect
Doctors are likely to prescribe semaglutide for the following reasons:
- Highly effective at lowering A1c based on robust clinical data
- In the SUSTAIN trials, semaglutide reduced A1c by 1.5-1.8% on average
- Has additional benefits like weight loss (average 6 lbs) and blood pressure reduction
- Once weekly dosing improves compliance compared to daily injections
- No increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events based on safety data
- Well-tolerated overall with main side effects being mild GI symptoms
However, there are some barriers to widespread semaglutide prescription:
- Requires subcutaneous injection which some patients dislike
- High cost - currently over $700/month without insurance coverage
- May require prior authorization or appeals process
- Gastrointestinal side effects like nausea occur in 5-10% of users initially
- Safety and efficacy during pregnancy is unknown
In summary, endocrinologists and diabetes specialists are most likely to prescribe semaglutide due to their familiarity with injectable GLP-1 drugs. Primary care physicians may prescribe it selectively for motivated patients not achieving goals with oral medications. Cost and insurance coverage varies based on plan. Self-insured plans may require additional paperwork or appeals. Public health clinics with budget restrictions are less likely to prescribe newer specialty medications.
Informed patients who understand the risks, benefits and costs of semaglutide are most likely to access this medication.
- Our hormone clinic, Hormone Wellness Center, provides comprehensive care including the latest diabetes treatments like semaglutide. Our endocrinology team stays on top of emerging research to offer patients cutting-edge medical therapies for optimal health and wellbeing. We handle insurance appeals and billing to make these innovative treatments accessible. Contact us today to see if semaglutide is right for your diabetes care plan!