GLP-1 receptor agonists—such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and tirzepatide—represent a true therapeutic breakthrough in the fight against obesity and type 2 diabetes. Their benefits, including significant weight loss and protection against comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, are well-documented. However, as independent data from studies in the US and Canada shows, the biggest challenge lies not in the drug’s effectiveness, but in patient adherence.
Studies reveal high discontinuation rates: nearly 65% of non-diabetic and 46.5% of diabetic participants discontinued their medication within the first year in one major US study. A smaller Canadian study found that approximately 15% of patients stopped after just one month due to adverse effects and high cost.
At Centrum Pharmacy, we believe limited adherence is a failure of support, not of the medication itself. Our commitment to Complete, Comprehensive, Caring, and Connected Care (the 4 C’s) places the pharmacist at the forefront of tackling the two primary barriers to long-term success: side effects and high costs.
Mitigating Adverse Effects: The Pharmacist’s Role
The most common reason for early discontinuation is often temporary, but debilitating, gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation). In a corporate pharmacy setting, patients may feel isolated when symptoms arise, leading them to abandon the drug. At Centrum Pharmacy, our accessible and experienced pharmacists provide crucial, immediate interventions under the Minor Ailment Care Model:
| Side Effect | Centrum Pharmacist Intervention | The 4 C’s Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea/Vomiting | Advise on slowing dosage titration (staying on a lower dose longer than the standard schedule), and recommend appropriate over-the-counter antiemetics (anti-nausea drugs). | Caring & Comprehensive support to manage symptoms and prevent discontinuation. |
| Constipation/Diarrhea | Recommend fibre supplements (like psyllium or PEG 3350) or dietary adjustments (e.g., adequate protein/water intake) to manage GI motility changes. | Complete care addressing lifestyle changes necessary for medication success. |
| Injection Site Issues | Provide detailed, hands-on training for proper pen technique and storage to ensure efficacy and reduce waste/discomfort. | Connected Care through ongoing monitoring and education. |
Pharmacist counselling also includes crucial anticipatory guidance—preparing the patient for what to expect and emphasizing that the side effects are often temporary and manageable, thereby improving confidence and persistence.
Innovative Cost Reduction Strategies: Fighting the Barrier
With treatments costing $5,000–$6,000 per year, cost is a major hurdle. While we fight for better societal recognition and coverage of obesity as a chronic disease, Centrum Pharmacy takes proactive, innovative steps to help you manage the financial burden:
- Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): We actively identify and help patients apply for manufacturer co-pay cards or patient assistance programs for eligible Canadians who meet specific income requirements.
- Benefits Coordination: As your local independent pharmacy, we specialize in coordinating complex benefits—stacking private insurance coverage with any applicable provincial coverage (like ODB in Ontario or Quebec’s public plan for certain indications) to maximize savings and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
- Bulk Pricing/Price Shopping: Unlike large chains with rigid pricing, independent pharmacies often have the flexibility to offer bulk purchase discounts or provide transparent pricing comparisons, allowing patients to find the most cost-effective solution.
- Prior Authorization Support: We work proactively with the Orleans Family Health Clinic (OFHC)—our Connected Care partner—to prepare and submit detailed prior authorization requests to your insurer, advocating for coverage based on clinical necessity.
Centrum Pharmacy: A Multidimensional Approach
The data shows weekly treatments (like semaglutide) promote better adherence than daily ones (like liraglutide). We use this information to inform patient recommendations, always considering what is the most Complete plan for long-term use. We support the chronic disease model for obesity, emphasizing that the medication must be combined with crucial nutritional and exercise support.
Centrum Pharmacy is more than just a dispenser; we are your most accessible healthcare professional, dedicated to ensuring your GLP-1 journey is effective, affordable, and sustainable.
Don’t let side effects or cost derail your treatment. Visit your Centrum Pharmacist for a private, dedicated GLP-1 consultation on side effect management, cost reduction strategies, and adherence support.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
