It acts directly on several target tissues, including skeletal muscle and bone, but several effects are mediated indirectly by circulating (liver-derived) or locally produced IGF-1
[1] [3] This reduces the risk of hypoglycemia compared to some other diabetes medications
For beneficiaries to be eligible under the BALANCE Model, providers must attest that they meet certain clinical criteria, including qualifying for a GLP-1 for a currently covered use (such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease risk reduction, or sleep apnea) or for use to treat obesity based on similar clinical criteria as applied in the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge (Figure 3)
The goal should be improved metabolic function, better body composition, and a lower-risk physiologic state
Semaglutide has safety data extending beyond 5 years from cardiovascular outcomes trials, with an excellent profile