Rapid Evolution in GLP-1s and Therapeutics at ADA 2026

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) will meet for its 2026 Scientific Sessions on June 5, 2026, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Clinicians from all over the country will meet to share updates on new treatments and drugs, debut pivotal technologies, and read out key trial data.

In advance of the onslaught of news, Diabetes Dialogue cohosts Diana Isaacs, PharmD, and Natalie Bellini, DNP, discuss more of the upcoming presentations already announced for the conference, including updates on GLP-1 therapies and the hosts’ own sessions.]

Check out the full episode on what to watch at ADA 2026 here.

In this segment, Isaacs and Bellini reflect on the rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape in diabetes, obesity, and cardiometabolic disease, emphasizing the expanding pipeline of incretin-based therapies and the excitement surrounding next-generation agents currently under investigation. They discuss emerging treatments including survodutide, maritide, tirzepatide, and combination therapies such as cagrilintide with semaglutide, noting the steady stream of new data demonstrating benefits that extend well beyond glycemic control alone. The conversation highlights growing anticipation around future triple-agonist therapies and other novel mechanisms that may further improve outcomes across multiple diabetes-related comorbidities.

A central theme of the discussion is the importance of therapeutic choice and individualized care. The speakers note that in clinical practice, patient tolerance varies substantially among GLP-1 receptor agonists and related therapies. While some individuals may discontinue one medication because of gastrointestinal side effects or other tolerability concerns, many can successfully transition to a different agent within the class. As additional therapies become available, clinicians will have greater flexibility to tailor treatment selection based on patient-specific factors, including metabolic profile, cardiovascular risk, kidney disease, obesity severity, and treatment preferences. The speakers emphasize that expanding therapeutic options will ultimately improve the ability to personalize care and sustain long-term treatment success.

The discussion also focuses on the increasingly recognized multisystem benefits of these therapies. Beyond improving glycemic control and promoting weight loss, the speakers underscore evidence demonstrating reductions in cardiovascular risk and protection against kidney disease progression. They further reference benefits related to sleep apnea, obesity-associated joint disease, and broader metabolic dysfunction, characterizing these medications as transformative therapies capable of addressing the interconnected complications of diabetes and obesity simultaneously. The hosts repeatedly stress the importance of viewing diabetes treatment through a holistic cardiometabolic lens rather than focusing solely on glucose metrics.

The episode then transitions to previews of upcoming educational sessions at the American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions. One speaker highlights an upcoming Medscape program centered on inhaled insulin, which will feature simulated patient-provider interactions demonstrating how clinicians can effectively discuss therapeutic options and reintroduce alternatives for individuals experiencing fatigue or burnout from automated insulin delivery systems. The discussion references ADA Standards of Care recommendations supporting patient-centered treatment decisions, including offering multiple technology and insulin delivery options over time as patient needs and preferences evolve. The speakers emphasize that flexibility and shared decision-making are critical to maintaining engagement with diabetes management technologies.

Another featured session will focus on skin complications associated with diabetes devices and wearable technologies. The speakers discuss the growing prevalence of adhesive reactions, skin irritation, and other dermatologic challenges related to continuous glucose monitors and insulin delivery systems. They note that successful technology use ultimately depends on patients being able to comfortably and consistently wear devices, making proactive management of skin-related complications essential for long-term adherence. The conversation emphasizes practical strategies to address these barriers and reinforces the importance of helping patients troubleshoot problems rather than abandoning effective technologies altogether.

The episode concludes with enthusiasm for the breadth of emerging research and educational programming at ADA, with the hosts expressing excitement about continuing to share new findings, expert interviews, and real-world perspectives on the future of diabetes technology and therapeutics.

Editor’s Note: Isaacs reports disclosures with Dexcom, Abbott, Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Medtronic, Insulet, and others. Bellini reports disclosures with Abbott Diabetes Care, MannKind, Povention Bio, and others.