Dulaglutide and Semaglutide Pen Designs Compared for User Preference on Practice Pads

Effective management of chronic conditions like Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and obesity increasingly relies on patient self-administration of injectable medications, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists such as dulaglutide and semaglutide. While the pharmacological efficacy of these peptides is well-established, the design and usability of their auto-injector pens are equally critical factors influencing patient adherence and overall treatment success. A device that is perceived as complex, difficult to handle, or intimidating can lead to significant patient non-adherence, regardless of the drug's therapeutic benefits. This can result in suboptimal disease control and increased healthcare costs. Understanding specific patient preferences for various pen features—including ergonomic grip, intuitive button placement, clear dose indicators, and tactile/auditory feedback mechanisms—is paramount for pharmaceutical companies developing new drug delivery systems. Such insights ensure optimal patient experience and foster long-term compliance with often life-long therapeutic regimens. This study directly addresses a crucial gap in understanding user-centric design preferences for these widely prescribed GLP-1 RA pens, aiming to inform future device innovations that prioritize patient comfort and ease of use.