Effectiveness, Safety, and Patient Satisfaction of Liraglutide in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Background and Objectives Liraglutide, an analog of human glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), has been approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Pakistan since 2016. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown promising results in terms of not only glycemic control but also weight loss. Our study aimed to provide evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of liraglutide in Pakistan and to look at the adherence rate and treatment satisfaction of patients using liraglutide. Methods This is an observational retrospective study that recruited patients who were treated with liraglutide. Data were collected at the first visit and follow-up. Morisky Green Levine Adherence Scale and Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM-9) were used for the determination of adherence and satisfaction with the treatment. Results A total of 70 patients were recruited in the study, The mean difference in weight, body mass index, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure from baseline to follow-up was -5.36 kg, -2.14 kg/m(2), -1.76%, -12.38 mmHg, and 5.55 mmHg, respectively. Nausea was the main side effect reported. TSQM-9 scores were compared from baseline, and it was found that patients are satisfied with the treatment and its effectiveness. Conclusions Our study has demonstrated the effectiveness of liraglutide as a monotherapy or combination therapy in the Pakistani population. Liraglutide led to reduction in HbA1C and weight. This is associated with high treatment satisfaction rate and adherence rate. Thus, liraglutide remains an effective though expensive treatment option in a country like Pakistan.