How pharmacists can boost GLP-1 adherence

In this article:

• How to support patient adherence to GLP-1s
• The bottom line

In this article

• How to support patient adherence to GLP-1s
• The bottom line

GLP-1 receptor agonists—such as Ozempic and Wegovy—have become extremely popular over the last few years. Initially approved by the FDA for Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1s have shown efficacy and soared to popularity for their weight loss benefits. In a KFF poll, one in eight adults reported ever taking a GLP-1 agonist. 

While GLP-1s are effective at lowering weight, hemoglobin A1C levels, and cardiovascular risk, their effects are only sustained if taken continuously. According to a 2025 study published in JAMA Network, more than half of patients who are overweight or have obesity discontinued GLP-1 therapy within one year, and almost three-fourths of patients discontinued therapy by two years. Knowing how important medication adherence is, here are four ways pharmacists can help boost adherence with GLP-1s. 

How to support patient adherence to GLP-1s

There are several ways pharmacists can help patients improve their adherence to GLP-1s. 

Discuss potential adverse effects

Tolerability can affect medication adherence. In fact, a recent study found adverse effects were one of the most frequent reasons for discontinuation of GLP-1s.

GLP-1s commonly cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects are most common when patients first start the medication or increase the dosage. 

Pharmacists can discuss potential side effects with patients before they start treatment and provide ways to manage them. This can help patients be more prepared to manage side effects should any develop during treatment. For example, you can suggest that they avoid trigger foods—such as spicy or greasy foods, alcohol, and carbonated drinks—until they know how their medication affects their bowel movements. You may also recommend staying hydrated if they experience diarrhea.  

It’s also important to discuss serious side effects, such as pancreatitis and gallstones, their associated symptoms, and when side effects warrant a trip to a healthcare provider.  

Provide ways to lower medication costs

Many patients have to take GLP-1s long-term, especially if they want sustained effects. High treatment costs are often a barrier to medication adherence, and according to a study published in JAMA Network, cost is one of the most frequent reasons for discontinuation of GLP-1s. 

Pharmacists can recommend ways to lower the cost of GLP-1s to boost adherence. Cost-saving strategies can include: 

• Prescription drug savings coupons, such as a SingleCare prescription discount card
• Manufacturer-sponsored copay cards
• Patient assistance programs

Educate patients on proper administration

Most GLP-1 agents are self-administered injectables. Many patients feel hesitant about giving themselves injections, especially if they aren’t sure how to do so.  

As frontline healthcare providers, pharmacists have a unique opportunity to demonstrate how to properly use GLP-1 medications. When patients come to pick up their prescription, you can take the medication out of the box and show them step-by-step how to administer the injection. It may also help to print out the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use so they can follow along. Several GLP-1 manufacturers have administration videos on their websites that can be helpful for patients as well. 

Curb expectations for results

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have been in the news because of their dramatic weight loss effects. While these drugs are extremely effective for weight management and blood glucose control, they are not “miracle drugs.” 

Studies have shown that semaglutide can help individuals lose as much as 16% body weight after 68 weeks of treatment. However, other GLP-1 agents, such as liraglutide, may help patients lose only 6.4% of their body weight. There are many factors that can affect a drug’s effectiveness, including dosages, side effects, comorbidities, and duration of treatment. Additionally, most patients’ weight loss can plateau at some point. Not achieving “miracle” results or plateauing weight loss could lead to discontinuation of GLP-1s for some patients. 

Reviewing average results, warning patients about potential weight loss plateaus, and discussing the length of time it takes for weight loss to occur can help patients curb their expectations. They may be more open to continuing treatment even if they have not achieved their desired weight loss results right away. 

The bottom line

GLP-1 receptor agonists have soared in popularity in recent years, mainly because of their weight loss benefits. However, studies have shown that almost 75% of patients discontinue GLP-1 therapy within two years. Pharmacists can help boost adherence to GLP-1 therapies by addressing potential barriers, such as side effects, cost, administration difficulties, and unrealistic expectations, with patients.