Experiences of general practitioners in Germany with incretin mimetics: a qualitative study

Background Incretin mimetics are increasingly used to manage diabetes and to support weight loss in people with obesity. However, their application in primary care settings by general practitioners (GPs) remains underexplored.

Aim This study aimed to investigate GPs’ healthcare experiences in relation to incretin mimetics such as semaglutide.

Design & setting Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with GPs from Hesse/Germany, recruited through purposive sampling.

Method We conducted 15 semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach by Braun and Clarke.

Results We identified six key themes: incretin mimetics as a new treatment option in the treatment of diabetes and obesity, patient expectations, the media as a key driver, challenges related to financial accessibility and supply, patients’ therapy adherence, and the effects on quality of life and lifestyle changes.

Conclusion Our findings emphasize that facilitating patient education using supportive educational materials might counter the lack of reliable information. Moreover, collecting both qualitative and quantitative data on incretin mimetic usage from the patient perspective would be valuable for a more comprehensive understanding of the use of the medication.