Community Pharmacists' Knowledge and Counseling Competence on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Care in Türkiye: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose: The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), including liraglutide and semaglutide, has expanded rapidly due to their effectiveness in weight management and glycemic control. Rising public interest, off-label cosmetic use, and prescription-free requests highlight the critical role of community pharmacists in ensuring appropriate patient counselling, safe dispensing, and rational use of these agents. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of community pharmacists regarding GLP-1 RAs in T & uuml;rkiye. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 community pharmacists in T & uuml;rkiye between January and April 2025. Data were collected using a structured, literature-based questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, attitudes, knowledge, and professional practices. Knowledge was evaluated using a 25-item scoring system. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests, and one-way ANOVA, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Requests for semaglutide and liraglutide were primarily for weight loss purposes (82.6% and 79.4%, respectively), and these agents were often sought without a prescription (over 60%) or medical recommendation (over 35%). The mean knowledge score was 15.8 +/- 4.3. Differences were observed across gender, professional experience, and pharmacy setting (p<0.05), with higher scores among female pharmacists, those with more than 16 years of experience, and those working in shopping mall pharmacies. Although most respondents correctly identified both medications as GLP-1 RAs (85.6% for semaglutide; 83.6% for liraglutide), gaps remained in regulatory awareness and consistency of routine counselling. A substantial proportion perceived misuse, with over 60% reporting concerns for both medications. Conclusion: Community pharmacists demonstrate moderate knowledge and active involvement in counselling for GLP-1 RAs; however, gaps persist in addressing off-label demand and safety-related patient guidance. Targeted pharmacist education and clearer regulatory communication may enhance safe and evidence-based use of GLP-1 RAs.