ABSTRACT
While glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as semaglutide, are among the most effective drugs for treating people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), they are clinically under-utilised. Until recently, the only route for semaglutide administration was via subcutaneous injection. However, an oral formulation of semaglutide was recently licensed, with the potential to address therapy inertia and increase patient adherence to treatment, which is essential in controlling blood glucose and reducing complications. The availability of oral semaglutide provides a new option for both clinicians and patients who are reluctant to use an injectable agent. This has been of particular importance in addressing the challenge of virtual diabetes care during the COVID-19 pandemic, circumventing the logistical problems that are often associated with subcutaneous medication administration. However, there remains limited awareness of the clinical and economic value of oral semaglutide in routine clinical practice. In this article, we present our consensus opinion on the role of oral semaglutide in routine clinical practice and discuss its value in reducing the burden of delivering diabetes care in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period of chronic disease management.
ABSTRACT
Remote consultations offer opportunities to deliver essential care and support during coronavirus restrictions. Jane Diggle and Pam Brown provide the key information to enable the identification of patients for whom this approach is appropriate, and how to conduct a remote diabetes review safely and effectively.
ABSTRACT
As the acute phase of the pandemic recedes, teams face significant backlogs of diabetes reviews. This how-to guide outlines how to stratify people with diabetes according to their risk of COVID-19 and diabetes complications, so that the most urgent cases for review can be prioritised.