Accepted for/Published in: Interactive Journal of Medical Research
Date Submitted: Jun 10, 2024
Date Accepted: Feb 24, 2025
GLP-1 receptor agonists combined with personalized digital healthcare for the treatment of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults with obesity : Retrospective Observational Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) represents a complex and multifaceted health condition characterized by a clustering of interconnected metabolic abnormalities, including central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Effective management of MetS is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.
Objective:
This study aimed to assess the efficacy of combining GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists with a continuous, digitally delivered behavioral change methodology by an integrated care team, in reversing MetS among obese individuals.
Methods:
The six-month Zone Health weight loss program involved 51 participants (mean age 45 ± 10 years; BMI 35 ± 5 kg/m²), categorized by gender, and treated with either Tirzepatide or Semaglutide. Participants received continuous support via a digital health platform, which facilitated real-time monitoring and personalized feedback from an integrated care team. Engagement levels with the digital platform, measured by the frequency of inbound interactions, were tracked and analyzed in relation to health outcomes.
Results:
The study found a MetS reversal rate of 52.2% in males and 46.4% in females. Among participants treated with Tirzepatide, 55% achieved MetS reversal compared to 45% with Semaglutide. Higher engagement with the digital health platform significantly correlated with improved outcomes in key MetS parameters. Specifically, waist circumference showed a mean reduction of 10 cm (P < 0.001), triglycerides a mean reduction of 25 mg/dL (P < 0.05), and diastolic blood pressure a mean reduction of 8 mmHg (P < 0.001). Participants in the highest quartile of digital engagement had a 60% greater likelihood of MetS reversal compared to those in the lowest quartile. Additionally, adherence to the prescribed pharmacological regimen was higher in the high-engagement group, indicating the effectiveness of the digital platform in promoting treatment compliance.
Conclusions:
The findings underscore the feasibility of using MetS as a clinical endpoint to monitor the effectiveness of obesity treatments involving GLP-1-based therapies. The study highlights the effectiveness of integrating pharmacological treatment in combination with a hybrid companion care model to achieve substantial benefits in managing and potentially reversing MetS.
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