Research Recap: GLP-1 Access & Clinical Outcomes for Obesity Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Kristin Baier, MD

Obesity and overweight significantly increase the risk of type-2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic diseases, making effective treatment crucial for overall health. At Calibrate, we offer a holistic, science-backed weight loss program that combines FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist medications with intensive lifestyle interventions (ILI). 

In June 2024, Calibrate published a research poster that focused more narrowly on the program's efficacy in light of ongoing challenges related to GLP-1 medication access (both related to supply chain as well as insurance coverage). These challenges have impacted prescribers nationwide since 2022, and our clinical team was curious to understand how they might affect patient results. 

This research was presented as part of the 2024 annual Endocrine Society meeting. Read on for a summary of the research and its significance for patients, providers, and health plans in 2024 and beyond. 

How the Calibrate program works

By addressing the underlying metabolic factors that influence weight, the Calibrate program offers a sustainable solution for patients struggling with obesity and overweight.

The program includes: 

• Synchronous physician visits: Patients attend virtual appointments with certified physicians who oversee and tailor the treatment plan.
• Personalized coaching: One-on-one coaching sessions every two weeks help patients stay accountable, motivated and on track.
• Proprietary lifestyle change curriculum: The curriculum includes evidence-based strategies that address hormonal, microbiome, and behavioral impacts on weight and metabolic health.
• Remote monitoring and behavior tracking: Patients use connected devices and the Calibrate app to track progress, working with their accountability coaching and clinical teams to make adjustments where necessary. 

While GLP-1 medication is prescribed as a part of the program, we aim to overcome the common challenges associated with these medications—such as insurance coverage limitations, supply chain disruptions, and high costs—by providing holistic interventions that enable patients to continue making progress even when they may not have access to medication. 

Since our launch in June 2020, Calibrate’s member base has grown substantially; meanwhile, our results have confirmed the program’s efficacy. Key findings include:

• Clinically significant average weight loss: Patients experienced 16% weight loss at 12 months, 17.3% at 18 months, and 17.9% at 24 months, with an average waist circumference reduction of 6 inches at 12 months.
• Metabolic health improvements: 98% of patients improved at least one metabolic marker, and 78% of those with prediabetes or diabetes normalized their hemoglobin A1c levels at 12 months.
• Satisfaction: 9 out of 10 find Calibrate the most effective program they've tried. 

Research and results

For this June 2024 study, researchers analyzed data from 7,622 individuals who had completed at least 12 months in the program and filled at least one GLP-1 prescription. 

The selection of medications, including semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®), liraglutide (Saxenda®, Victoza®), tirzepatide (Zepbound®, Mounjaro®), and dulaglutide (Trulicity®), was based on clinical appropriateness, insurance coverage, and availability.

Research methods:

Patient weights were collected using cellular-connected scales, with weight analysis continuing beyond the first year for those who stayed in the program. 

The ILI curriculum incorporated evidence-based strategies for hormonal, microbiome, and behavioral impact on weight and metabolic health, including principles from the carbohydrate-insulin model of obesity. Participants met with a coach every two weeks and received additional support through online community events.

Medication access: 

About 67.1% of the cohort accessed only one GLP-1, while 25.9% accessed two distinct GLP-1 medications, and 7% accessed three or more. A coverage gap was defined as at least 13 weeks without a GLP-1 fill, affecting 33.65% of patients in the first year and 54.33% at any point during the program.

Weight loss outcomes:

The overall study population saw an average weight loss of 16.2% at 12 months and 17.2% at 24 months.

When comparing differing levels of patient access to medication,

• Patients without medication disruptions achieved even greater results, with average weight loss of 17.28% at 12 months and 21.46% at 24 months. 
• Those with disruptions saw average weight loss of 14.96% at 12 months and 16.36% at 24 months. 
• For those with frequent GLP-1 fills (10 or more), we observed an average weight loss of 17.6% at 12 months.

Key findings: Significant weight loss despite GLP-1 shortages 

Despite challenges that impacted GLP-1 medication access—such as insurance coverage limitations and supply shortages—patients in the Calibrate program achieved significant weight loss.

Our research underscores the transformative potential of integrating GLP-1 receptor agonist medications with intensive lifestyle interventions (ILI) in a virtual setting. This approach not only addresses the clinical and logistical challenges of obesity treatment but also demonstrates the efficacy and scalability of digital health solutions. 

Potential impact on health plans & providers

The success of Calibrate's program signals a shift towards more personalized, technology-driven healthcare solutions. 

Health plans and providers can leverage these findings to offer more effective, accessible, and comprehensive weight management options. By incorporating such programs, they may reduce the long-term costs associated with chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, improve patient adherence and satisfaction, and ultimately enhance overall population health. 

Benefits of Calibrate for employers:

1. Improved employee health: By addressing obesity and associated risks, your employees will experience better overall health, leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
2. Cost savings: Investing in our program can reduce long-term healthcare costs by preventing and managing chronic conditions associated with obesity.
3. Enhanced employee wellbeing: Offering Calibrate as part of your benefits package shows your commitment to your employees' health and wellbeing, potentially boosting morale and retention.

Whether on a GLP-1 or not, Calibrate members lose weight—and keep it off, for good. Join us in transforming health outcomes for your employees: Partner with Calibrate to provide the support they need for sustainable, effective weight loss and improved metabolic health. 

Click here to learn more about how Calibrate can benefit your organization.