Why carry out this study?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are effective for glycemic control, with many also demonstrating cardiovascular (CV) benefit, in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

GLP-1 RAs are underprescribed in people with T2D and high CV risk or established cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Spain.

This study investigated the potential barriers to and strategies for the optimal use of GLP-1 RAs in people with T2D with high CV risk or established CVD in Spain.

What was learned from the study?

The traditional stepwise approach to T2D management, the costs for patients not meeting required medical criteria to obtain funded GLP-1 RA prescriptions, the administrative procedures for obtaining prescription authorization, and not considering CV risk as a switching treatment factor, were the main barriers that limited the use of GLP-1 RAs in people with T2D and high CV risk or established CVD.

Potential solutions include establishing simple protocols that integrate awareness of CV risk monitoring, training professionals and patients, and the use of new technologies.

It is important to integrate the use of therapies with CV benefit into the treatment of patients with T2D in accordance with clinical practice guidelines.