NEW APPROACHES IN THE TREATMENT OF TYPE 2 DIABETES - TRANSITION FROM GLUCOSE-CENTRED TO PATIENT-CENTRED MODEL

Objective: The high prevalence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) all over the world cause a high demand of searching for new antidiabetic drugs. The present study aims to identify the consumption of three new classes of antidiabetic drugs (DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT-2 inhibitors), analyzing the use of these drugs prescribed for the treatment of T2D. In this retrospective observational study, we analyzed consumption data for the period 2015–2020, obtained from National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) database only. Results: The NHIF expenditure of DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT-2 inhibitors in Bulgaria for the period 2015-2020 is increasing. Although last introduced into clinical practice, SGLT-2 inhibitors were preferred by clinicians, over GLP-1 agonists, during the considered period. Conclusions: DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT-2 inhibitors consumption in Bulgaria indicates progressive changes in the prescription of antidiabetic drugs. We have highlighted the market uptake of drugs approved during the last 15 years. To ensure the optimal benefits to the patient, we feel it is necessary to implement guidance to assist prescribers in choosing the most appropriate therapy based on drug and patient characteristics. Further monitoring of the effect of the pharmacotherapeutic changes on additional cardiovascular and renal benefits of these drugs is needed