Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly used for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity, yet real-world data from German outpatient care are limited. This study aims to characterize prescribing patterns of GLP-1 RAs among adults in German outpatient care.
METHODS: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive analysis using data from the Honic data platform, which integrates electronic health records from primary care providers across Germany. Adults (≥18 years) with at least one GLP-1 RA agent (ATC codes A10BJ and A10BX16) prescribed between 2018 and 2024 were included. Baseline patient demographics, BMI, comorbidities, and participation in Disease Management Programs (DMPs) were assessed using descriptive statistics.
RESULTS: Among 26,746 adults receiving GLP-1 therapy, semaglutide was most frequently prescribed (n=14,035), followed by dulaglutide (n=10,243) and tirzepatide (n=5,623) . Most patients had obesity at baseline (median BMI = 34.2kg/m2) and 51.1% had a documented T2DM diagnosis. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (40.6%) and hyperlipidemia (29.5%). 57.1% of patients were enrolled in a T2DM DMP. The utilization of GLP-1 RAs increased substantially after 2020, in parallel with the availability of newer agents.
CONCLUSIONS: This study provides an overview of GLP-1 RA utilization in German outpatient care, offering insight into patient characteristics and comorbidities at baseline. The observed patterns reflect evolving strategies in managing metabolic conditions. As indications and use continue to expand, real-world data is essential to monitor real-time trends, assess outcomes, and support evidence-based clinical and policy decisions.