The Future of GLP-1 Therapies: Hype, Evidence, and the Expanding Role of Pharmacists

In an interview with Pharmacy Times at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers 2026, Donald Langan, PharmD, MD, a Multiple Sclerosis and Clinical Neuroimmunology Fellow at Columbia University, presenting on the evolution of GLP-1 receptor agonists, discussed the future of GLP-1 therapies and the expansion of the pharmacist's role.

Langan discussed the rapid rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists from diabetes therapies into widely utilized agents for obesity management and potentially other chronic diseases, highlighting how emerging clinical evidence and expanding indications have transformed the treatment landscape. The conversation explored the key factors that contributed to the growing dominance of GLP-1 therapies, including increasing recognition of obesity as a chronic disease and the substantial weight-loss outcomes observed with agents such as semaglutide and tirzepatide.

During the interview, Langan addressed the growing enthusiasm surrounding GLP-1 therapies and whether public and clinical expectations may be advancing faster than the available evidence in some therapeutic areas. The discussion examined the importance of balancing excitement over new data with careful interpretation of long-term outcomes, safety considerations, and appropriate patient selection.

The interview also focused on the future potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists beyond diabetes and weight management. Areas of interest included cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, and neurodegenerative disorders, with attention given to how ongoing research may further expand the role of these agents across multiple disease states.

Langan additionally discussed concerns tied to the rapid increase in GLP-1 utilization, including affordability, insurance coverage challenges, drug shortages, long-term safety monitoring, and equitable patient access. The conversation highlighted how high demand has created significant operational and clinical challenges for health systems, providers, and patients alike.

A major focus of the discussion centered on the evolving role of pharmacists in GLP-1 therapy management. Langan emphasized the importance of pharmacists in supporting adherence, counseling patients on adverse effects, addressing access and reimbursement barriers, and helping optimize appropriate use as GLP-1 therapies continue expanding throughout clinical practice.