Hypoglycemia and diabetes: a report of a workgroup of the American Diabetes Association and the Endocrine Society

Risk factors for kidney disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes at high cardiovascular risk: An exploratory analysis (DEVOTE 12)

AIM

To investigate risk factors associated with kidney disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) at high cardiovascular (CV) risk.

METHODS

In DEVOTE, a cardiovascular outcomes trial, 7637 patients were randomised to insulin degludec (degludec) or insulin glargine 100 units/mL (glargine U100), with standard of care. In these exploratory post hoc analyses, serious adverse event reports were searched using Standardised MedDRA^® Queries related to chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI). Baseline predictors of CKD, AKI and change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were identified using stepwise selection and Cox or linear regression.

RESULTS

Over 2 years, eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m²) decline was small and similar between treatments (degludec: 2.70; glargine U100: 2.92). Overall, 97 and 208 patients experienced CKD and AKI events, respectively. A history of heart failure was a risk factor for CKD (hazard ratio [HR] 1.97 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.41; 2.75]) and AKI (HR 2.28 [95% CI 1.64; 3.17]). A history of hepatic impairment was a significant predictor of CKD (HR 3.28 [95% CI 2.12; 5.07]) and change in eGFR (estimate: -8.59 [95% CI -10.20; -7.00]).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that traditional, non-modifiable risk factors for kidney disorders apply to insulin-treated patients with T2D at high CV risk.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT01959529 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Individualization of recommendations from the international consensus on continuous glucose monitoring-derived metrics in Japanese children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

We assessed the significance of recommendations from the international consensus on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-derived metrics in Japanese children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Eighty-five patients (age, 13.5 ± 4.7 years) who wore the FreeStyle^® Libre for a 28-day period were enrolled in this study. Seventy-three patients were treated with multiple daily injections of insulin and 12 with insulin pump therapy without using a sensor-augmented pump or a predictive low-glucose suspend-function pump. We evaluated the relationship between CGM-derived metrics: time in range (TIR: 70-180 mg/dL), time below range (TBR: <70 mg/dL), and time above range (TAR: >180 mg/dL), and laboratory-measured HbA1c and estimated HbA1c (eA1c) levels calculated from the mean glucose values. The TIR was 50.7 ± 12.2% (23-75%), TBR was 11.8 ± 5.8% (2-27%), and TAR was 37.5 ± 13.5% (9-69%). The TIR was highly correlated with HbA1c level, eA1c level, and TAR, but not with TBR. An HbA1c level of 7.0% corresponded to a TIR of 55.1% (95% CI: 53.7-56.5%), whereas a TIR of 70% corresponded to an HbA1c level of 6.1% (95% CI: 5.9-6.3%). The results of eA1c levels were similar to those observed for HbA1c levels. From these findings, we conclude that low rates of a recommended TIR of 70% may be due to less use of advanced technology and insufficient comprehensive diabetes care. Ethnic characteristics including lifestyle and eating customs may have contributed to the result. CGM-derived targets must be individualized based on ethnic characteristics, insulin treatment and diabetes care, and needs of individuals with diabetes.

Fear of hypoglycemia in patients with type 1 and 2 diabetes: a systematic review

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To summarize and thematize fear of hypoglycemia (FOH) in individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) to provide a theoretical basis for the development of effective interventions.

BACKGROUND

FOH is common in this population and can reduce quality of life(QOL) and adversely impact upon diabetes self-care management.

DESIGN

a systematic review METHODS: Articles published between 2000 and 2019 were searched in PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wan-fang data and VIP). Eligible articles were selected using the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The quality of all articles finally included was evaluated by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal tools.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies from 8654 papers were included. The sample size of each study ranged from 48 to 3812 subjects. FOH negatively impacted QOL, particularly psychosocial functioning, daily life and sleep quality.

CONCLUSIONS

FOH is a common and serious problem for patients, leading to poor QOL. It has been suggested that psychological concerns, QOL and effective countermeasures in individuals with T1D and T2D should be taken seriously. Advanced technology should be evaluated for its benefits before being used by patients.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The review highlights that FOH negatively impacts QOL, including psychosocial factors, daily life and sleep quality. Healthcare providers should develop targeted and professional assessment tools for FOH and QOL for patients with T2D, especially for patients who are about 60 years old. Advanced technology should be evaluated for its benefits before being used by patients.

Metabolomic, hormonal and physiological responses to hypoglycemia versus euglycemia during exercise in adults with type 1 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

This study sought to compare the metabolomic, hormonal and physiological responses to hypoglycemia versus euglycemia during exercise in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Thirteen individuals with T1D (hemoglobin; 7.0%±1.3% (52.6±13.9 mmol/mol), age; 36±15 years, duration diabetes; 15±12 years) performed a maximum of 45 min submaximal exercise (60%±6% V̇O_2max). Retrospectively identified exercise sessions that ended in hypoglycemia ((HypoEx) blood glucose (BG)≤3.9 mmol/L) were compared against a participant-matched euglycemic condition ((EuEx) BG≥4.0, BG≤10.0 mmol/L). Samples were compared for detailed physiological and hormonal parameters as well as metabolically profiled via large scale targeted ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. Data were assessed using univariate and multivariate analysis techniques with false discovery rate adjustment. Significant results were considered at p≤0.05.

RESULTS

Cardiorespiratory and counterregulatory hormone responses, whole-body fuel use and perception of fatigue during exercise were similar under conditions of hypoglycemia and euglycemia (BG 3.5±0.3 vs 5.8±1.1 mmol/L, respectively p<0.001). HypoEx was associated with greater adenosine salvage pathway activity (5'-methylthioadenosine, p=0.023 and higher cysteine and methionine metabolism), increased utilization of glucogenic amino acids (glutamine, p=0.021, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism and homoserine/threonine, p=0.045) and evidence of enhanced β-oxidation (lower carnitine p<0.001, higher long-chain acylcarnitines).

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to acute hypoglycemia during exercise potentiates alterations in subclinical indices of metabolic stress at the level of the metabolome. However, the physiological responses induced by dynamic physical exercise may mask the symptomatic recognition of mild hypoglycemia during exercise in people with T1D, a potential clinical safety concern that reinforces the need for diligent glucose management.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

DRKS00013509.

Effect of dapagliflozin as an adjunct to insulin over 52 weeks in individuals with type 1 diabetes: post-hoc renal analysis of the DEPICT randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The DEPICT-1 and DEPICT-2 studies showed that dapagliflozin as an adjunct to insulin in individuals with inadequately controlled type 1 diabetes improved glycaemic control and bodyweight, without increase in risk of hypoglycaemia. We aimed to determine the effect of dapagliflozin on urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using pooled data from the DEPICT studies.

METHODS

In this post-hoc analysis, we used data pooled from both DEPICT studies (DEPICT-1 ran from Nov 11, 2014, to Aug 25, 2017; DEPICT-2 ran from July 8, 2015, to April 18, 2018), in which participants were aged 18-75 years, with inadequately controlled type 1 diabetes and with a baseline UACR of at least 30 mg/g. In the DEPICT studies, participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive dapagliflozin (5 mg or 10 mg) or placebo all plus insulin, for 24 weeks, with a 28-week long-term extension (ie, 52 weeks in total). In this post-hoc analysis, we assessed the percentage change from baseline in UACR and in eGFR, up to 52 weeks. UACR, eGFR, and safety were assessed in all eligible participants who had received at least one dose of study drug. HbA_1c, bodyweight, and systolic blood pressure were assessed in all participants who received at least one dose of study drug during the first 24-week period, and who had a baseline and any post-baseline assessment for that parameter. The DEPICT trials were registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02268214 (DEPICT-1), NCT02460978 (DEPICT-2), and are now complete.

RESULTS

251 participants with albuminuria at baseline were included in this post-hoc analysis; of whom 80 (32%) had been randomly assigned to dapagliflozin 5 mg, 84 (33%) to dapagliflozin 10 mg, and 87 (35%) to placebo. Compared with placebo, treatment with both dapagliflozin doses improved UACR over 52 weeks. At week 52, mean difference in change from baseline versus placebo in UACR was -13·3% (95% CI -37·2 to 19·8) for dapagliflozin 5 mg and -31·1% (-49·9 to -5·2) for dapagliflozin 10 mg. No notable change from baseline was seen in eGFR, with a mean difference in change from baseline versus placebo of 3·27 mL/min per 1·73 m² (95% CI -0·92 to 7·45) for dapagliflozin 5 mg and 2·12 mL/min per 1·73 m² (-2·03 to 6·27) for dapagliflozin 10 mg. Similar proportions of participants in each treatment group had adverse events and serious adverse events, including hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis; no new safety signals were identified in this population.

INTERPRETATION

Treatment with dapagliflozin resulted in UACR reduction, which might provide renoprotective benefits in individuals with type 1 diabetes and albuminuria. Dedicated prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings as prespecified endpoints.

FUNDING

AstraZeneca.

The Effect of Food Intake on the Pharmacokinetics of Oral Basal Insulin: A Randomised Crossover Trial in Healthy Male Subjects

Background

Oral insulin 338 is a novel tablet formulation of a long-acting basal insulin. This randomised, open-label, four-period crossover trial investigated the effect of timing of food intake on the single-dose pharmacokinetic properties of oral insulin 338.

Methods

After an overnight fast, 44 healthy males received single fixed doses of oral insulin 338 administered 0, 30, 60 or 360 min before consuming a standardised meal (500 kcal, 57 energy percent [E%] carbohydrate, 13 E% fat, 30 E% protein). Blood samples for pharmacokinetic assessment were taken up to 288 h post-dose.

Results

Total exposure (area under the concentration-time curve from time zero to infinity [AUC_{Ins338,0–∞}]) and maximum concentration (C_max,Ins338) of insulin 338 were both significantly lower for 0 versus 360 min post-dose fasting (ratio [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.36 [0.26–0.49], p < 0.001, and 0.35 [0.25–0.49], p < 0.001, respectively). There were no significant differences in AUC_{Ins338,0–∞} and C_max,Ins338 for 30 or 60 versus 360 min post-dose fasting (ratio [95% CI] 30 versus 360 min: 0.85 [0.61–1.21], p = 0.36, and 0.86 [0.59–1.26], p = 0.42; ratio [95% CI] 60 versus 360 min: 0.96 [0.72–1.28], p = 0.77, and 0.99 [0.75–1.31], p = 0.95). The mean half-life was ~ 55 h independent of the post-dose fasting period. Oral insulin 338 was well-tolerated with no safety issues identified during the trial.

Conclusions

Oral insulin 338 pharmacokinetics are not affected by food intake from 30 min after dosing, implying that patients with diabetes mellitus do not need to wait more than 30 min after a morning dose of oral insulin 338 before having their breakfast. This is considered important for convenience and treatment compliance.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT02304627.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40262-019-00772-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing during pregnancy

The goal of this review is to examine practical considerations when conducting cardiopulmonary exercise testing during pregnancy. In a clinical and research setting, cardiopulmonary exercise testing during pregnancy is valuable in identifying underlying cardiopulmonary conditions, stratifying the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, as well as establishing exercise tolerance/limitations. This review encompasses information regarding the unique physiological adaptations that occur throughout gestation (e.g., changes in resting heart rate, blood pressure, glucose, etc.) and how these adaptations impact the interpretation of physiological measurements. There are also key concerns that are unique to pregnant populations that should be considered when participating in exercise (i.e., fetus, ventilation, thermoregulation, urinary incontinence, low back pain, and pelvic girdle pain). This step-by-step review of cardiopulmonary exercise testing outlines pregnancy related adjustments to standardized methods (i.e., screening/documentation, pre- and post-test measurements, protocol specifics, modality selection, and fetal monitoring) which should be considered for the safety of both the participant and fetus. Currently, pregnancy specific exercise testing guidelines are lacking. Therefore, we will be discussing the limitations of current recommendations such as a safe cut off for resting heart rate and pregnancy specific test termination criteria.

Factors associated with fear of hypoglycaemia among the T1D Exchange Glu population in a cross-sectional online survey

OBJECTIVES

Fear of hypoglycaemia (FoH) has been associated with suboptimal diabetes management and health outcomes. This study investigated factors associated with behavioural and emotional aspects of FoH among adults living with type 1 diabetes (T1D) mellitus.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Online survey hosted on T1D Exchange Glu, an online community for patients living with T1D mellitus.

MEASURES

The Hypoglycaemia Fear Survey II-short form and the Hypoglycaemic Attitudes and Behaviour Scale were used to assess FoH. Multivariable regressions were performed on assessment scores.

RESULTS

The study included 494 participants (mean±SD age 43.9±12.2 years, duration of T1D mellitus 16.6±16.8 years, self-reported glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 6.9%±0.8% (52±9 mmol/mol)), 63% men, 89% on insulin pump, 25% experienced a severe hypoglycaemic event in the last 6 months. Multivariable regression analyses showed higher anxiety, depression severity and diabetes distress were independently associated with FoH (all p<0.01). Longer diabetes duration was associated with lower FoH (p<0.01). Past experience with severe hypoglycaemia was associated with higher worry of hypoglycaemia (p<0.01) but not avoidance behaviour (ns).

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlighted the multifaceted nature of FoH, which warrants further discussion between providers and patients to uncover drivers of and actions required to reduce FoH and improve patient care and outcomes.

Clopidogrel drug interactions: a review of the evidence and clinical implications

INTRODUCTION

Patients with cardiovascular disease are commonly affected by a number of comorbidities leading to a high prevalence of polypharmacy. Polypharmacy increases the probability of drug-drug interactions (DDIs). Amongst these, DDIs involving clopidogrel, the most commonly utilized platelet P2Y₁₂ inhibitor, is a topic of potential clinical concern.

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews DDIs between clopidogrel and drugs which are widely used in clinical practice. In particular, drugs shown to interfere with the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic effects of clopidogrel and the clinical implications of these findings are reviewed. These drugs include inhibitors of gastric acid secretion, statins, calcium channel blockers, antidiabetic agents, and antimicrobial agents. For the references, we searched PubMed, EMBASE, or the Cochrane Library.

EXPERT OPINION

Clopidogrel-drug interactions are common. Most of these DDIs are limited to laboratory findings showing an impact on clopidogrel-induced antiplatelet effects. While variability in clopidogrel-induced antiplatelet effects is known to affect clinical outcomes, with high platelet reactivity being associated with thrombotic complications among patients undergoing coronary stenting, most studies assessing the clinical implications of clopidogrel-drug interactions have not shown to significantly affect outcomes. However, awareness of these DDIs remains important for optimizing the selection of concomitant therapies.

Safety and Tolerability of Insulin Aspart Biosimilar SAR341402 Versus Originator Insulin Aspart (NovoLog) When Used in Insulin Pumps in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: A Randomized, Open-Label Clinical Trial

Background: The aim was to assess the safety and tolerability of the insulin aspart biosimilar/follow-on product SAR341402 (100 U/mL solution; SAR-Asp) and originator insulin aspart (100 U/mL; NN-Asp; NovoLog®) self-administered through an insulin pump. Materials and Methods: This randomized, open-label, 2 × 4-week crossover study enrolled 45 adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Participants were randomized 1:1 to the treatment sequence SAR-Asp/NN-Asp or NN-Asp/SAR-Asp. The basal and prandial insulin doses were individually titrated. The primary outcome was the number of participants with at least one infusion set occlusion (infusion set change due to failure-to-correct hyperglycemia [plasma glucose ≥250 mg/dL] by insulin pump bolus) during the 4-week treatment. The main secondary outcome was the number of participants with at least one episode of unexplained hyperglycemia (regardless of correction by an insulin pump bolus without apparent material defect, medical, dietary, insulin dosing reason, or pump problem). Results: The number of participants reporting ≥1 infusion set occlusion were similar between treatments: 14/43 on SAR-Asp (33 events) and 12/43 on NN-Asp (24 events). The estimated difference in infusion set occlusion risk for SAR-Asp versus NN-Asp was 4.1% (95% confidence interval: -9.3% to 17.4%). The number of participants with ≥1 episode of unexplained hyperglycemia was similar between treatments (31/43 on SAR-Asp [154 events]; 32/43 on NN-Asp [175 events]). Hypoglycemia, treatment-emergent adverse events, hypersensitivity, and injection site reactions were similar between treatments. Conclusions: SAR-Asp and NN-Asp were well tolerated and had similar infusion set occlusions over a 4-week period in insulin pump users with T1D.

Long-term efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin in patients with inadequately controlled type 1 diabetes (the DEPICT-2 study): 52-week results from a randomized controlled trial

AIM

To investigate the long-term efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin as an adjunct to adjustable insulin in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and inadequate glycaemic control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dapagliflozin Evaluation in Patients with Inadequately Controlled Type 1 Diabetes (DEPICT-2) was a placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicentre, phase III study of adults with T1D (HbA1c 7.5%-10.5%) randomized (1:1:1) to receive dapagliflozin 5, 10 mg, or placebo. The efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin over 52 weeks were exploratory endpoints in this extension to DEPICT-2.

RESULTS

Of 813 participants randomized, 88.2% completed the study. From baseline to 52 weeks, dapagliflozin 5 and 10 mg were associated with reduction in HbA1c (difference [95% CI] vs. placebo: -0.20% [-0.34, -0.06] and -0.25% [-0.38, -0.11], respectively) and adjusted mean percentage change in body weight (difference [95% CI] vs. placebo: -4.42% [-5.19, -3.64] and -4.86% [-5.63, -4.08], respectively). Serious adverse events were reported in the dapagliflozin 5, 10 mg, and placebo groups (32 [11.8%], 19 [7.0%] and 16 [5.9%], respectively). The proportion of hypoglycaemic events was similar across groups; severe hypoglycaemia was uncommon. More participants with events adjudicated as definite diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were in the dapagliflozin 5 and 10 mg groups versus placebo (11 [4.1%], 10 [3.7%] and 1 [0.4%], respectively); the majority of events were mild or moderate in severity and all were resolved with treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin led to long-term reductions in HbA1c and body weight in adults with T1D, but increased DKA risk compared with placebo.

Hypoglycemia prevention practice and its associated factors among diabetes patients at university teaching hospital in Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Hypoglycemia is a true medical emergency, which needs prompt recognition and treatment to prevent organ damage and mortality. Knowledge about the prevention of hypoglycemia is an important step to self-care practice because informed people are more likely to have a better hypoglycemia prevention practice. The aim of this study was to explore hypoglycemia prevention practice and its associated factors among diabetes patients at a university teaching hospital in Ethiopia.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study was carried out on a total of 422 systematically selected diabetic patients at the University of Gondar Referral and Teaching Hospital. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured, and interviewer-administered questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed by SPSS version 20 and associated variables were measured using binary logistic regression and within 95% confidence interval. A p-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULT

From the total of 422 diabetic patients, 61.6% were males, 70.1% of them were urban dwellers, 37.9% of them were unable to write and read, and 70.6% of the participants were taking insulin. The majority of respondents had good knowledge of (77.5%) and practice of (93.1%) hypoglycemia prevention. Only good participant knowledge about hypoglycemia prevention was strongly associated with the practice of its prevention (AOR: 2.87 (1.2-6.8), p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Even though diabetic patients with good knowledge of hypoglycemia and its prevention was strongly associated with good prevention practice, there exists a gap in knowledge of hypoglycemia prevention. Hence, we recommend counseling be offered to patients regarding hypoglycemia during their visit to the diabetic clinic. Counseling points such as common clinical symptoms, its negative consequence, as well as remedial options are essential elements for the improvement of their practice on its prevention.

The association between anti-insulin aspart antibodies and the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of fast-acting insulin aspart in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Fast-acting insulin aspart (faster aspart) is a novel formulation of insulin aspart (IAsp) ensuring ultrafast absorption and effect.

AIM

To compare the pharmacokinetics between faster aspart and IAsp, based on free or total IAsp measurement, and investigate the association between anti-IAsp antibodies and faster aspart and IAsp pharmacological properties in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

In a randomized, two-period crossover trial, 12 children, 16 adolescents, and 15 adults (6-11, 12-17, and 18-64 years) received 0.2 U/kg double-blindsingle-dose subcutaneous faster aspart or IAsp followed by a standardized liquid meal test.

RESULTS

Across age groups, the pharmacokinetic profile was left-shifted including greater early exposure for faster aspart vs IAsp irrespective of free or total IAsp assay. Onset of appearance occurred 2.4 to 5.0 minutes (free) or 1.8 to 3.0 minutes (total) earlier for faster aspart vs IAsp (P < .05). Treatment ratios (faster aspart/IAsp) for 0 to 30 minutes IAsp exposure were 1.60 to 2.11 and 1.62 to 1.96, respectively (children, free: P = .062; otherwise P < .05). The ratio of free/total IAsp for overall exposure (AUC_IAsp,0-t ) was negatively associated with anti-IAsp antibody level across age. Pooling with a previous similar trial showed no clear association between anti-IAsp antibodies and meal test 1- or 2-hour postprandial glucose increment independent of age and insulin treatment (R² ≤ .070; P ≥ .17).

CONCLUSIONS

In children and adolescents with T1D, faster aspart provides ultrafast pharmacokinetics irrespective of free or total IAsp assay. Elevated anti-IAsp antibodies are associated with higher total IAsp concentration, but do not impact faster aspart and IAsp glucose-lowering effect.

Patient-Reported Outcomes with Insulin Glargine 300 U/mL in People with Type 2 Diabetes: The MAGE Multicenter Observational Study

INTRODUCTION

MAGE was a Multicenter, single-Arm, observational 6-month (plus 6-month extension) study that aimed to assess treatment satisfaction, efficacy, and safety of insulin Glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) receiving basal-bolus insulin in a rEal-world setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Participants were at least 18 years old, with T2DM for more than 1 year, HbA_1c 7.0-10.0%. The primary endpoint was change in Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire status version (DTSQs) total score (baseline to month 6). Secondary endpoints included reasons for starting Gla-300, changes in the DTSQ change version (DTSQc) total score, Hypoglycemia Fear Survey-II (HFS-II) total behavior and worry scores at months 6 and 12, HbA_1c changes at months 3, 6, 9, and 12, and safety.

RESULTS

MAGE included 87 adults (mean T2DM duration 17 years). The primary endpoint of DTSQs mean (standard deviation) total score improvement at month 6 was achieved (2.80 [5.46] points; p < 0.0001). The main reasons for Gla-300 initiation were to decrease HbA_1c (89.7% of participants) and reduce the number of hypoglycemic events (35.6% of participants). Significant improvements were observed in the DTSQc total score and perceived hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia (baseline to month 6, p < 0.05). Significant changes in HFS-II behavior, worry, and total scores at 6 and 12 months were also observed (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant changes in HbA_1c. Safety outcomes, including hypoglycemia, were comparable to previously reported trials.

CONCLUSIONS

The MAGE study indicates that Gla-300, as part of a basal-bolus regimen, results in improved treatment satisfaction and reduced hypoglycemia fear in people with advanced T2DM.

A Randomized Trial Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Fast-Acting Insulin Aspart Compared With Insulin Aspart, Both in Combination With Insulin Degludec With or Without Metformin, in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes (ONSET 9)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fast-acting insulin aspart (faster aspart) compared with insulin aspart (IAsp), both with insulin degludec with or without metformin, in adults with type 2 diabetes not optimally controlled with a basal-bolus regimen.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This multicenter, double-blind, treat-to-target trial randomized participants to faster aspart (n = 546) or IAsp (n = 545). All available information, regardless of treatment discontinuation or use of ancillary treatment, was used for evaluation of effect.

RESULTS

Noninferiority for the change from baseline in HbA_1c 16 weeks after randomization (primary end point) was confirmed for faster aspart versus IAsp (estimated treatment difference [ETD] -0.04% [95% CI -0.11; 0.03]; -0.39 mmol/mol [-1.15; 0.37]; P < 0.001). Faster aspart was superior to IAsp for change from baseline in 1-h postprandial glucose (PPG) increment using a meal test (ETD -0.40 mmol/L [-0.66; -0.14]; -7.23 mg/dL [-11.92; -2.55]; P = 0.001 for superiority). Change from baseline in self-measured 1-h PPG increment for the mean over all meals favored faster aspart (ETD -0.25 mmol/L [-0.42; -0.09]); -4.58 mg/dL [-7.59; -1.57]; P = 0.003). The overall rate of treatment-emergent severe or blood glucose (BG)-confirmed hypoglycemia was statistically significantly lower for faster aspart versus IAsp (estimated treatment ratio 0.81 [95% CI 0.68; 0.97]).

CONCLUSIONS

In combination with insulin degludec, faster aspart provided effective overall glycemic control, superior PPG control, and a lower rate of severe or BG-confirmed hypoglycemia versus IAsp in adults with type 2 diabetes not optimally controlled with a basal-bolus regimen.

Short-term renal and metabolic effects of low dose vildagliptin treatment added-on insulin therapy in non-proteinuric patients with type 2 diabetes: open-label randomized prospective study

Objective The aim of this randomized comparative study was to assess renal and metabolic effects of vildagliptin in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients without overt chronic kidney disease. Subjects and methods We randomized 47 insulin-treated non-proteinuric patients with satisfactory controlled T2DM and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m 2 either to continue insulin therapy (control) or to receive combined insulin-vildagliptin treatment (VIG group). We assessed eGFR using serum creatinine (eGFRcreat), cystatin C (eGFRcys), and both (eGFRcreat-cys), and urinary creatinine-adjusted excretion of albumin (UACR), type IV collagen (uCol IV/Cr), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL/Cr) at baseline and after 6 months of treatment. Results Study groups were comparable in terms of age and sex (60.1 ± 6.1 years and 42.9% men in control group vs. 60.8 ± 5.2 years and 39.1% in VIG group). After 6 months of treatment, there were no significant changes in main assessed parameters in control group. VIG group demonstrated significant decrease in HbA1c, diastolic blood pressure, frequency of hypoglycemia, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level as compared to the changes in control group. While eGFRcreat, UACR, and uNGAL/Cr showed no significant changes after vildagliptin addition, eGFRcys, eGFRcreat-cys, and uCol IV/Cr changed significantly in comparison with control group (+7.0% [3.7;13.3]; +5.1% [1.4;8.5]; -32,8% [-55.8;-24.4], respectively, p < 0.01 each). Correlation and regression analysis revealed glucose-independent pattern of these changes. Conclusion Addition of vildagliptin to ongoing insulin therapy in patients with T2DM was associated with a reduction in uCol IV/Cr and an increase in eGFRcys and eGFRcreat-cys, independent of T2DM control parameters.

Efficacy, safety and cardiovascular outcomes of once-daily oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes: The PIONEER programme

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are recommended for glycaemic management in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Oral semaglutide, the first oral GLP-1RA, has recently been approved for clinical use, based on the results of the randomized, Phase 3a Peptide InnOvatioN for Early diabEtes tReatment (PIONEER) clinical trials. The PIONEER programme tested oral semaglutide in patients with T2D of duration ranging from 3.5 to 15 years, from monotherapy through to insulin add-on, in global populations and two trials dedicated to Japanese patients. Outcomes (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c] and body weight reduction, plus other relevant efficacy and safety endpoints) were tested against both placebo and active standard-of-care medications. A separate trial evaluated the cardiovascular safety of oral semaglutide in patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk. Over periods of treatment up to 78 weeks, oral semaglutide 7 and 14 mg once daily reduced HbA1c and body weight across the spectrum of T2D, and improved other diabetes-related endpoints, such as fasting plasma glucose. Oral semaglutide provided significantly better efficacy than placebo and commonly used glucose-lowering medications from the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (sitagliptin) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) classes, as well as the subcutaneous GLP-1RAs liraglutide and dulaglutide. Oral semaglutide was well tolerated in line with the known safety profile of GLP-1RAs, with transient gastrointestinal events being the most common side effects reported. Cardiovascular safety was demonstrated for oral semaglutide in patients with cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risk. The results of the PIONEER programme suggest that oral semaglutide is efficacious and well tolerated for glycaemic control of T2D. The availability of oral semaglutide may help to broaden treatment choice and facilitate adoption of earlier GLP-1RA treatment in the paradigm of T2D management.

Practical guidance for use of oral semaglutide in primary care: a narrative review

As the cornerstone of type 2 diabetes (T2D) management within the community, primary care providers are now faced with the challenge of not only managing diabetes itself, but also preventing hypoglycemia and weight gain associated with intensive disease management, and reducing cardiovascular risk. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are well established as efficacious treatments for T2D, and the safety/tolerability profile of this drug class is well defined. However, despite their beneficial effects, GLP-1RAs are under-utilized, highlighting the need for novel approaches to increase their use in primary care. Oral semaglutide is the first oral GLP-1RA approved for the treatment of T2D, offering glucose lowering and body weight loss, a low risk of hypoglycemia, and no increase in cardiovascular risk. Oral semaglutide represents an additional treatment option for patients not achieving their glycemic goal despite treatment with metformin, either alone or with other hypoglycemic agents. Oral semaglutide has the potential to increase usage of GLP-1RAs in the primary care setting by addressing clinician and patient concerns about injections, and may facilitate earlier initiation of GLP-1RA therapy in T2D. Due to the formulation of oral semaglutide, clinicians need to be aware of specific considerations in order to ensure optimal use. Such considerations include dosing conditions and use of concomitant medications. This article provides practical guidance on the use of oral semaglutide in the primary care setting, based on evidence from clinical studies, including the phase 3a PIONEER program, and the authors' clinical experience.

Efficacy and safety of dual add-on therapy with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin versus glimepiride in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes on a stable dose of metformin: Results from a 52-week, randomized, active-controlled trial

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin (DAPA) + saxagliptin (SAXA) compared with glimepiride (GLIM) in patients with type 2 diabetes who were inadequately controlled [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.5-10.5% (58-91 mmol/mol)] on metformin monotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This 52-week, multicentre, double-blind, active-controlled study (NCT02419612) randomized (1:1) patients on metformin to add-on DAPA 10 mg + SAXA 5 mg (n = 227) or GLIM 1-6 mg (titrated; n = 217). The primary efficacy endpoint was change in HbA1c from baseline to week 52.

RESULTS

Baseline mean ± standard deviation of age, duration of diabetes and HbA1c were 56.1 ± 9.7 years, 7.8 ± 6.4 years and 8.5% ± 0.8% (69 ± 9.0 mmol/mol), respectively. Adjusted mean change from baseline in HbA1c was -1.35% (-14.8 mmol/mol) with DAPA + SAXA versus -0.98% (-10.7 mmol/mol) with GLIM (P <0.001). Changes from baseline in body weight and systolic blood pressure were -3.1 kg and -2.6 mmHg with DAPA + SAXA versus +1.0 kg (P <0.001) and +1.0 mmHg (P = 0.007) with GLIM. More patients achieved HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol) (44.3% vs. 34.3%; P = 0.044), and fewer patients required treatment intensification (1.3% vs. 8.8%; P = 0.002) with DAPA + SAXA than with GLIM.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with GLIM, concurrent addition of DAPA + SAXA significantly improved glycaemic control, body weight and other metabolic parameters in patients inadequately controlled on metformin. Trial: NCT02419612, ClinicalTrials.gov.

Systemic Treatment With Glucocorticoids Is Associated With Incident Hypoglycemia and Mortality: A Historical Prospective Analysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the increased glycemic variability associated with systemic glucocorticoid treatment is also associated with increased incidence of hypoglycemia.

METHODS

All patients discharged from internal medicine units between 2010 and 2013 were included in this retrospective analysis. Patients were assigned to 3 groups: Group 1: no steroids were prescribed;. Group 2: topical or inhaled steroids were prescribed with no systemic treatment; and Group 3: systemic steroids were prescribed, with or without topical or inhaled treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 45,272 patients were included in the study. Patients in Group 3 had significantly higher rates of hypoglycemia (10.9%) compared to patients in Group 2 (7.4%), and patients in Group 1 (7.3%). Patients with diabetes mellitus had higher rates of hypoglycemia compared to patients without diabetes mellitus (14.3% vs 4.9%) but exhibited similar trends in response to steroid treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that systemic steroids were associated with increased risk for hypoglycemia (odds ratio [OR] 1.513, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.311-1.746, P <0.001). Hypoglycemia associated with systemic steroid treatment was also associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] 2.328, 95% CI 1.931-2.807, P <0.001). Patients who were treated with systemic steroids but did not have hypoglycemia did not have higher mortality rates (HR 1.068, 95% CI 0.972-1.175, P = 0.171).

CONCLUSION

Treatment with systemic steroids is associated with increased hypoglycemia incidence during hospitalization. Patients treated with steroids that had incident hypoglycemia had a higher 1-year mortality risk compared to patients without hypoglycemia treated with steroids.

Differentiating Hypoglycemia Awareness Status from Hypoglycemia Experience in Tools for Measuring Impaired Awareness of Hypoglycemia

Background: Developing technologies in real-time continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are successfully reducing severe hypoglycemia (SH) in trials and clinical practice. Their impact on impaired awareness of hypoglycemia, a major risk factor for SH, is uncertain. Methods: The present study examined two scales for assessing hypoglycemia awareness status, the Gold score and the eight-item Minimally Modified Clarke Hypoglycemia Survey (MMCHS), commonly used in trials of CGM, in Portuguese-speaking adults with type 1 diabetes and conducted an exploratory factor analysis on MMCHS. Results: A bifactorial structure in MMCHS was revealed, with a clear distinction between items that measure SH experience and those that measure hypoglycemia awareness status. The latter is associated with the same risk for SH as the Gold score. Conclusions: We conclude that improvement in awareness scores by the MMCHS may reflect only a reduction in SH with no restoration of endogenous awareness, making the current literature consistent in evidence that CGM does not improve endogenous awareness and nonsensor supported protection from SH. This has implications for risk of SH when CGM is not being worn.

Safety, Immunogenicity, and Glycemic Control of Insulin Aspart Biosimilar SAR341402 Versus Originator Insulin Aspart in People with Diabetes Also Using Insulin Glargine: 12-Month Results from the GEMELLI 1 Trial

Background: SAR341402 (SAR-Asp) is a biosimilar/follow-on of the originator insulin aspart-NovoLog^®/NovoRapid^® (NN-Asp). This study investigated whether the efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity findings for SAR-Asp versus NN-Asp, observed over 6 months in people with type 1 (n = 497) or type 2 diabetes (n = 100) treated with multiple daily injections in combination with insulin glargine (Lantus^®), are maintained after 12 months. Materials and Methods: GEMELLI 1 was a multicenter, randomized, open-label, phase 3 study. Participants completing the initial 6-month treatment period continued on SAR-Asp or NN-Asp, as randomized, for a 6-month safety extension. Results: Of the 597 participants randomized, 264 out of 301 (87.7%) and 263 out of 296 (88.9%) assigned to SAR-Asp and NN-Asp, respectively, completed 12 months of treatment. Improved glycemic control was sustained at 12 months in both treatment groups, with similar least-squares mean reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline (SAR-Asp: -0.25%; NN-Asp: -0.26%). Fasting plasma glucose and seven-point self-monitored plasma glucose profile changes, including postprandial glucose excursions, and changes in mealtime and basal insulin dosages were similar between groups. Safety and tolerability, including anti-insulin aspart antibodies (AIAs; incidence, prevalence, titers, cross-reactivity to human insulin), neutralizing antibodies (incidence, prevalence), hypoglycemia, and treatment-emergent adverse events (including hypersensitivity events and injection site reactions), were similar between groups. No relationship was observed between maximum individual AIA titers and change in HbA1c or insulin dose, hypoglycemia, or hypersensitivity reactions or between efficacy/safety measures and subgroups by presence or absence of treatment-emergent AIA. Conclusions: SAR-Asp and NN-Asp demonstrated similar efficacy and safety (including immunogenicity) in people with diabetes over 12 months of treatment.

A 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of weekly exenatide in adolescents with obesity

BACKGROUND

Pharmacological treatment options for adolescents with obesity are very limited. Glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist could be a treatment option for adolescent obesity.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of exenatide extended release on body mass index (BMI)-SDS as primary outcome, and glucose metabolism, cardiometabolic risk factors, liver steatosis, and other BMI metrics as secondary outcomes, and its safety and tolerability in adolescents with obesity.

METHODS

Six-month, randomized, double-blinded, parallel, placebo-controlled clinical trial in patients (n = 44, 10-18 years, females n = 22) with BMI-SDS > 2.0 or age-adapted-BMI > 30 kg/m² according to WHO were included. Patients received lifestyle intervention and were randomized to exenatide extended release 2 mg (n = 22) or placebo (n = 22) subcutaneous injections given once weekly. Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) were conducted at the beginning and end of the intervention.

RESULTS

Exenatide reduced (P < .05) BMI-SDS (-0.09; -0.18, 0.00), % BMI 95th percentile (-2.9%; -5.4, -0.3), weight (-3 kg; -5.8, -0.1), waist circumference (-3.2 cm; -5.8, -0.7), subcutaneous adipose tissue (-552 cm³ ; -989, -114), 2-hour-glucose during OGTT (-15.3 mg/dL; -27.5, -3.1), total cholesterol (11.6 mg/dL; -21.7, -1.5), and BMI (-0.83 kg/m² ; -1.68, 0.01) without significant change in liver fat content (-1.36; -3.12, 0.4; P = .06) in comparison to placebo. Safety and tolerability profiles were comparable to placebo with the exception of mild adverse events being more frequent in exenatide-treated patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of adolescents with severe obesity with extended-release exenatide is generally well tolerated and leads to a modest reduction in BMI metrics and improvement in glucose tolerance and cholesterol. The study indicates that the treatment provides additional beneficial effects beyond BMI reduction for the patient group.

Cost analysis of the flash monitoring system (FreeStyle Libre 2) in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

Compare cost of the interstitial liquid glucose flash monitoring (FM) system (FreeStyle Libre 2) versus self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Spain.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A model was developed to estimate, with the perspective of the Spanish health system, the annual costs associated with glucose monitoring and hypoglycemic events management in T1DM population, with multiple insulin daily doses (MDI). According to published evidence, rate of severe hypoglycemia (SHE) of 4.90 episodes per patient-year was applied. Reduction of SHE (58.6%) was modeled associated with FM use. Published rates of hospital care (20.2%) and subsequent admission (16%) were assumed for SHE. The daily consumption of strips and lancets was 9 in patients with SMBG (before and after 4 daily intakes and at bedtime) and 0.5 for FM users (according to IMPACT trial findings). Annual consumption of 26 FM sensors was considered (1 every 14 days). Unit costs (in € of 2019, excluding VAT) were obtained from literature and national databases. Sensitivity analyses (SA) were carried out to evaluate the model robustness.

RESULTS

The total annual cost/patient was €4437 for SMBG and €2526 for FM. The use of FM would be associated with an annual savings in the costs of monitoring and managing hypoglycemic events of €1911 per patient-year. In a hypothetical cohort of 1000 patients with T1DM MDI, FM could avoid in 1 year 4900 SHE, 93 hospitalizations for SHE. In addition, the use of FM would generate total savings of up to €1 910 000 per year. In the SA with alternative hypoglycemia events rates and use of strips and lancets, and including non-SHE episodes, savings from €370 000 to €1 760 000 were observed with FM.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the FM system to monitor glucose in adults with T1DM treated with MDI, would reduce hypoglycemic events and would result in cost savings for the health system.

A safety and pharmacodynamics study of temelimab, an antipathogenic human endogenous retrovirus type W envelope monoclonal antibody, in patients with type 1 diabetes

AIM

To report the first study of temelimab, a monoclonal antibody neutralizing the pathogenic human endogenous retrovirus type W envelope, in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial recruited adult patients with T1D within 4 years postdiagnosis and remaining C-peptide secretion. Sixty-four patients were randomized (2:1) to monthly temelimab 6 mg/kg or placebo during 24 weeks followed by a 24-week, open-label extension, during which all patients received temelimab. The primary objective was the safety and tolerability of temelimab. The secondary objective was to assess the pharmacodynamics response such as C-peptide levels, insulin use, HbA1c, hypoglycaemia and autoantibodies.

RESULTS

Temelimab was well tolerated without any group difference in the frequency or severity of adverse events. Concerning exploratory endpoints, there was no difference in the levels of C-peptide, insulin use or HbA1c between treatment groups at weeks 24 and 48. The frequency of hypoglycaemia events was reduced with temelimab (P = 0.0004) at week 24 and the level of anti-insulin antibodies was lower with temelimab (P < 0.01); the other autoantibodies did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Temelimab appeared safe in patients with T1D. Pharmacodynamics signals (hypoglycaemia and anti-insulin antibodies) under temelimab were observed. Markers of β-cell functions were not modified by treatment. These results need to be further explored in younger patients with T1D with earlier disease onset.

Hypoglycemia in Older Patients

Hypoglycemia is a serious problem in older patients with diabetes mellitus. This chapter discusses risk factors associated with hypoglycemia and approaches to mitigation of the risk for hypoglycemia. Specific considerations include selection of glucose lowering agents, comorbid conditions and the implications of declining cognitive dysfunction.

Effect of linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, compared with the sulfonylurea glimepiride on cardiovascular outcomes in Asians with type 2 diabetes: subgroup analysis of the randomized CAROLINA® trial

Objective

Linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, recently demonstrated cardiovascular (CV) safety versus placebo in Asians with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the CARMELINA^® trial. We assessed its CV safety compared with the sulfonylurea glimepiride in Asians with relatively early T2DM in the CAROLINA^® trial.

Methods

Based on prespecified and post hoc subgroup analyses of the multinational CAROLINA^® trial in which adults with relatively early T2DM and elevated CV risk were randomized to linagliptin or glimepiride added to usual care, we analyzed data for participants from Asian countries. This included the primary outcome defined as time to first CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke [three-point major adverse cardiovascular events (3P-MACE)].

Results

Of the 6033 participants, 933 (15.5%) were from Asia. During a median follow-up of 6.2 years, 3P-MACE occurred in 9.5% and 11.1% of the linagliptin and glimepiride groups, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57-1.26]), consistent with the overall population (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.84-1.13; P = 0.17 for treatment by region interaction). Similarly, there were no significant differences between groups for other outcomes, including CV death (HR 0.73; 95% CI 0.38-1.38), non-CV mortality (HR 0.76; 95% CI 0.37-1.57) and hospitalization for heart failure (HR 0.89; 95% CI 0.36-2.19). Hypoglycemia adverse events occurred in 13.1% of linagliptin patients versus 42.1% of glimepiride patients (HR 0.25; 95% CI 0.19-0.33; P < 0.0001) despite similar glycemic control. Body weight was slightly lower with linagliptin relative to glimepiride: weighted average mean difference over 256 weeks of - 1.82 kg (95% CI - 2.28 to - 1.35).

Conclusions

In Asian patients, linagliptin demonstrated similar CV safety to glimepiride with a markedly lower rate of hypoglycemia and modestly lower weight.

Prevalence of Hypoglycemia Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Rural Health Center in South India

Introduction: One of the greatest threats to achieving tight glycemic control is hypoglycemia, which can lead to decreased drug compliance, cardiovascular events, and even mortality. There is lack of literature on this complication in the Indian setting. This study will aid the primary care physician to achieve better glycemic control of the diabetic patients and provide patient education to prevent hypoglycemia. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study in which 390 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus getting treated in a primary health center were assessed for symptoms of hypoglycemia. Results: Prevalence of hypoglycemia was 57.44% (95% CI 52.48-62.25). Severe hypoglycemia was found in 10.7% of the patients. The first reported symptom of hypoglycemia was dizziness (72.3%). The most common etiological factor leading to hypoglycemia was missing a meal (89.3%). Females were at a significant higher risk of developing hypoglycemia (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.04-1.3, P < .05). Conclusion: This study has established the high prevalence of self-reported hypoglycaemia in the rural settings where resources are limited to monitor the glucose levels. The high prevalence urges the need for the primary care physicians to enquire about the hypoglycemic symptoms to all diabetic patients at each visit. It is also important to educate these patients about the symptoms of hypoglycemia and the importance of reporting of such symptoms, which will help in adjusting dose and preventing future attacks.

Safety and tolerability of empagliflozin and linagliptin combination therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a pooled analysis of data from five randomized, controlled clinical trials

OBJECTIVES

The fixed-dose combination of empagliflozin and linagliptin, two glucose-lowering drugs prescribed for type 2 diabetes mellitus, has demonstrated good tolerability in phase III clinical trials. To further evaluate the safety profile of this combination, the data from these trials were pooled and analyzed.

METHODS

This was a post-hoc pooled analysis of five randomized, double-blind, clinical trials of the empagliflozin/linagliptin fixed-dose combination. Data for adverse events and laboratory parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

The analysis included 2895 patients: 1410, 1015, and 470 receiving the empagliflozin/linagliptin combination, empagliflozin monotherapy, and linagliptin monotherapy, respectively. Overall, the incidence of adverse events with the empagliflozin/linagliptin combination was similar to that with empagliflozin or linagliptin alone. Fewer than 2% of patients experienced hypoglycemia, and its incidence was similar across treatment groups. Genital infections occurred in more patients receiving empagliflozin/linagliptin (3.0%) or empagliflozin monotherapy (5.1%) than in those receiving linagliptin monotherapy (1.9%). No cases of Fournier's gangrene, diabetic ketoacidosis, or pemphigoid occurred, and no clinically relevant mean changes in laboratory parameters were noted.

CONCLUSION

The safety profile of the fixed-dose combination of empagliflozin and linagliptin was similar to the individual monotherapies. No new safety signals were identified.

Diabetes Management During Breastfeeding in Women with Type 1 Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an update on glycemic management of type 1 diabetes during breastfeeding with focus on diet and insulin treatment to prevent hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis, and weight retention. Recommendations for insulin pump settings are given.

RECENT FINDINGS

Women with type 1 diabetes are encouraged to breastfeed. Hypoglycemia is a concern in the breastfeeding period among women with type 1 diabetes, and ketoacidosis may also occur. The usual goals for glucose values for persons with diabetes also apply during breastfeeding. The recommended minimum daily carbohydrate intake is 210 g during breastfeeding, and this may contribute to prevention of hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis while aiming for gradual weight loss. Insulin requirements are 21% lower during breastfeeding than before pregnancy. Diabetes management in breastfeeding women with type 1 diabetes includes the same goals for glucose values as in other persons with diabetes, sufficient carbohydrate intake, and adequate reduction in insulin dose.

Clinical Prediction Tool To Identify Adults With Type 2 Diabetes at Risk for Persistent Adverse Glycemia in Hospital

OBJECTIVES

Given the high incidence of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia in hospital and the lack of prediction tools for this problem, we developed a clinical tool to assist early identification of individuals at risk for persistent adverse glycemia (AG) in hospital.

METHODS

We analyzed a cohort of 594 consecutive adult inpatients with type 2 diabetes. We identified clinical factors available early in the admission course that were associated with persistent AG (defined as ≥2 days with capillary glucose <4 or >15 mmol/L during admission). A prediction model for persistent AG was constructed using logistic regression and internal validation was performed using a split-sample approach.

RESULTS

Persistent AG occurred in 153 (26%) of inpatients, and was associated with admission dysglycemia (odds ratio [OR], 3.65), glycated hemoglobin ≥8.1% (OR, 5.08), glucose-lowering treatment regimen containing sulfonylurea (OR, 3.50) or insulin (OR, 4.22), glucocorticoid medication treatment (OR, 2.27), Charlson Comorbidity Index score and the number of observed days. An early-identification prediction tool, based on clinical factors reliably available at admission (admission dysglycemia, glycated hemoglobin, glucose-lowering regimen and glucocorticoid treatment), could accurately predict persistent AG (receiver-operating characteristic area under curve = 0.806), and, at the optimal cutoff, the sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value were 84%, 66% and 53%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A clinical prediction tool based on clinical risk factors available at admission to hospital identified patients at increased risk for persistent AG and could assist early targeted management by inpatient diabetes teams.

Intranasal versus injectable glucagon for hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Glucagon is used to resolve severe hypoglycemia in unconscious patients with diabetes, requiring third-party assistance. A few studies have shown that intranasal (IN) glucagon causes resolution of hypoglycemia in insulin-treated patients with type 1 (T1DM) diabetes. This systematic review and meta-analysis updates the comparison of the effectiveness of IN glucagon with injected intramuscular/subcutaneous (IM/SC) glucagon in treatment of hypoglycemia in T1DM.

METHODS

Controlled randomized studies were considered; eight studies, published in English, were included in a meta-analysis (random-effects model). Intervention effect (resolution of hypoglycemia) was expressed as odds ratio (OR), with 95% confidence intervals. Meta-regression was employed to correlate the effect with size of studies, age of patients, basal blood glucose levels.

RESULTS

In a total of 467 treatments in 269 patients with IN and IM/SC glucagon, the OR IN versus IM/SC was 0.61 (CI 0.13-2.82); since four of eight studies showed 100% effectiveness, a simulation was made with 1 failure for each treatment; in this simulation analysis, the OR was 0.80 (95% CI 0.28-2.32). Heterogeneity was low and not statistically significant. Publication bias was absent, and quality of papers was high. At meta-regression, no correlation was found between the effect and number of patients in each study, age of patients, basal blood glucose levels. No study formally compared IN versus IM/SC in unconscious patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicates that in conscious T1DM patients IN glucagon and IM/SC glucagon are equally effective in resolution of hypoglycemia.

Randomized 52-week Phase 2 Trial of Albiglutide Versus Placebo in Adult Patients With Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes

CONTEXT

GLP-1 receptor agonists are an established therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes; however, their role in type 1 diabetes remains to be determined.

OBJECTIVE

Determine efficacy and safety of once-weekly albiglutide 30 mg (up-titration to 50 mg at week 6) versus placebo together with insulin in patients with new-onset type 1 diabetes and residual insulin production.

DESIGN

52-week, randomized, phase 2 study (NCT02284009).

METHODS

A prespecified Bayesian approach, incorporating placebo data from a prior study, allowed for 3:1 (albiglutide:placebo) randomization. The primary endpoint was 52-week change from baseline in mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) stimulated 2-h plasma C-peptide area under the curve (AUC). Secondary endpoints included metabolic measures and pharmacokinetics of albiglutide.

RESULTS

12/17 (70.6%, placebo) and 40/50 (80.0%, albiglutide) patients completed the study. Within our study, mean (standard deviation) change from baseline to week 52 in MMTT-stimulated 2-h plasma C-peptide AUC was -0.16 nmol/L (0.366) with placebo and -0.13 nmol/L (0.244) with albiglutide. For the primary Bayesian analysis (including prior study data) the posterior treatment difference (95% credible interval) was estimated at 0.12 nmol/L (0-0.24); the probability of a difference ≥0.2 nmol/L between treatments was low (0.097). A transient significant difference in maximum C-peptide was seen at week 28. Otherwise, no significant secondary endpoint differences were noted. On-therapy adverse events were reported in 82.0% (albiglutide) and 76.5% (placebo) of patients.

CONCLUSION

In newly diagnosed patients with type 1 diabetes, albiglutide 30 to 50 mg weekly for 1 year had no appreciable effect on preserving residual β-cell function versus placebo.

Reducing the burden of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes through increased understanding: design of the Hypoglycaemia REdefining SOLutions for better liVEs (Hypo-RESOLVE) project

BACKGROUND

Hypoglycaemia is the most frequent complication of treatment with insulin or insulin secretagogues in people with diabetes. Severe hypoglycaemia, i.e. an event requiring external help because of cognitive dysfunction, is associated with a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality, but underlying mechanism(s) are poorly understood. There is also a gap in the understanding of the clinical, psychological and health economic impact of 'non-severe' hypoglycaemia and the glucose level below which hypoglycaemia causes harm.

AIM

To increase understanding of hypoglycaemia by addressing the above issues over a 4-year period.

METHODS

Hypo-RESOLVE is structured across eight work packages, each with a distinct focus. We will construct a large, sustainable database including hypoglycaemia data from >100 clinical trials to examine predictors of hypoglycaemia and establish glucose threshold(s) below which hypoglycaemia constitutes a risk for adverse biomedical and psychological outcomes, and increases healthcare costs. We will also investigate the mechanism(s) underlying the antecedents and consequences of hypoglycaemia, the significance of glucose sensor-detected hypoglycaemia, the impact of hypoglycaemia in families, and the costs of hypoglycaemia for healthcare systems.

RESULTS

The outcomes of Hypo-RESOLVE will inform evidence-based definitions regarding the classification of hypoglycaemia in diabetes for use in daily clinical practice, future clinical trials and as a benchmark for comparing glucose-lowering interventions and strategies across trials. Stakeholders will be engaged to achieve broadly adopted agreement.

CONCLUSION

Hypo-RESOLVE will advance our understanding and refine the classification of hypoglycaemia, with the ultimate aim being to alleviate the burden and consequences of hypoglycaemia in people with diabetes.

Hypoglycemia in patient with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin: it can happen

There are many misconceptions about the prevalence and effects of hypoglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), including hypoglycemia does not occur or does not have adverse consequences in T2D. This narrative review aims to help dispel these myths. Around 25% of people with T2D taking insulin for >5 years were found to have severe hypoglycemic events, which is comparable to the severe hypoglycemia rate in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) diagnosed within 5 years. The total number of hypoglycemic events among insulin-treated T2D, including severe hypoglycemia, is as high or higher than among those with T1D. Recent evidence suggests serious consequences of hypoglycemia may, in some respects, be greater in individuals with T2D, particularly regarding effects on the cardiovascular system. Hypoglycemia is generally patient-reported. Issues with hypoglycemia unawareness, limited glucose testing, limited recall, lack of event logging and fear of failure or shaming limits the number of hypoglycemic episodes reported by people with diabetes. Barriers to healthcare provider inquiry and reporting include lack of knowledge regarding the problem's magnitude, competing priorities during patient visits, lack of incentives to report and limitations to documentation systems for adequate reporting. All people with diabetes should be encouraged to discuss their experiences with hypoglycemia without judgment or shame. Glucose targets, testing schedules (blood glucose or continuous glucose monitoring) and treatment plans should be reviewed often and individualized to the minimize risk of hypoglycemia. Finally, people with T2D on insulin should always be encouraged to have oral glucose and rescue medication immediately available.

Emergency attendance for acute hyper- and hypoglycaemia in the adult diabetic population of the metropolitan area of Milan: quantifying the phenomenon and studying its predictors

BACKGROUND

We quantified, among diabetic adults, the frequency, costs, and factors associated with visits to the emergency department (EDs) and subsequent hospitalizations for acute hypoglycaemic and hyperglycaemic events.

METHODS

We included adults with diabetes residing in the Milan Agency for Health Protection between 2015 and 2017. From healthcare databases, we identified demographic variables, comorbidities, type of treatment, insulin treatment duration, previous ED attendances for acute glycaemic events, and two indicators of glycaemic monitoring. Using a validated ICD-9-CM coding algorithm, we identified all ED attendances for acute glycaemic events from the ED database and calculated their incidence. We computed the direct costs from health databases and presented them as average annual mean costs for those having had at least an ED attendance. The analysis of the association between the number of ED attendances and potential determinants was performed using zero-inflated negative binomial regression models. These two-part models concomitantly estimate two sets of parameters: the odds-ratios (ORs) of having no attendances and the incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of attendance.

RESULTS

The cohort included 168,285 subjects, 70% of subjects were older than 64 years, 56% were males, and 26% were treated with insulin. The incidence of acute glycaemic events for those attending the ED was 7.0 per 1000 patient-years, followed by hospitalization 26.0% of the time. The total annual direct cost for ED attendances due to acute glycaemic events was 174,000 €. Type of antidiabetic treatment had the strongest association with ED attendances for hypoglycaemia. Patients assuming insulin only had a lower probability of having no attendances (OR compared to those who assumed non-insulin antidiabetic drugs =0.01, 95% CI = 0.00-0.02). These patients also had the highest rate of hyperglycaemic episodes (IRR = 7.7, 95% CI = 5.1-11.7 for insulin only vs. non-insulin antidiabetic drugs). Subjects having had a previous episode of the same type leading to an ED visit had a higher rate of subsequent attendances (IRR for hypoglycaemia = 5.3, 95% CI = 3.9-7.3 and IRR for hyperglycaemia = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.3-10.2).

CONCLUSION

Insulin treatment and having had a prior acute glycaemic event leading to an ED visit were major predictors of ED attendance for hyper and hypoglycaemia in a population of adults with diabetes.

The risk factors of inpatient hypoglycemia: A systematic review

Hypoglycemia is an important and harmful complication of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) that often occurs in inpatient or outpatient settings. Hypoglycemia can be divided into two types, i.e. primary hypoglycemia when hypoglycemia is the main diagnosis for admission, whereas secondary hypoglycemia if hypoglycemia occurs during hospitalization. Hypoglycemia during hospitalization or secondary hypoglycemia may arise from various risk factors, such as advanced age, comorbid diseases, type of diabetes, previous history of hypoglycemia, body mass index, hyperglycemia therapy given, as well as other risk factors such as inadequate glucose monitoring, unclear or unreadable physician instructions, limited health personnel, limited facilities, prolonged fasting and incompatibility of nutritional intake and therapy administered. Hypoglycemia can lead to medical and non-medical impacts, such as increased mortality, cardiovascular disorders, cerebrovascular disorders, and increased health care costs and length of stay. The incidence of inpatient hypoglycemia can actually be prevented by controlling modifiable risk factors and also giving education about hypoglycemia to patients and health workers. We performed a literature research in Pubmed, EBSCOhost, and Scopus to review the possible risk factors for inpatient hypoglycemia. Eleven studies were retrieved. We presented the result of these studies as well as a brief overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, impact and preventive strategy.

The altered circadian pattern of basal insulin requirements – an early marker of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes in type 1 diabetes mellitus

Objectives. The purpose of the present paper is to propose and introduce novel biomarkers of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes that are relevant to the early diagnosis and optimal medical management of the patients who already suffer from type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods. We hypothesize and demonstrate on a case study that various organ-specific autoimmune endocrinopathies can result in lowered basal insulin requirements, leading to unexplained hypoglycemia.

Results. It can be hypothesized that hypothyroidism in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus may deteriorate glycemic control and can lead to an increased rate of hypoglycemia, particularly the overnight and morning hypoglycemia. Thus, the decreased requirements for particularly overnight basal insulin can be an early marker of the autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome-3 with subclinical autoimmune thyroiditis in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus. Further, it could be proposed that unexplained hypoglycemia during the late afternoon or evening could be an early marker of the autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome-2 with subclinical autoimmune Addison disease in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus. As a result, an altered circadian pattern of basal insulin requirements can occur, characterized by a decreased late afternoon basal insulin rate.

Conclusions. After exclusion of other causes, the unexplained reoccurring hypoglycemia can be a remarkable feature of autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes mellitus on intensive insulin replacement therapy.

Effect of real-life insulin pump with predictive low-glucose management use for 3 months: Analysis of the patients treated in a Japanese center

Aims/Introduction

In Japan, an insulin pump with predictive low‐glucose management (PLGM) was launched in 2018. It automatically suspends insulin delivery when the sensor detects or predicts low glucose values. The aim of this study was to analyze the safety and efficacy of PLGM in patients treated in a Japanese center.

Materials and Methods

We carried out a retrospective observational analysis of 16 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and one patient after pancreatectomy. They switched from the MiniMed 620G device to the 640G device with PLGM. The primary outcome was the change in the percentage of time in hypoglycemia. The secondary outcome was the change in HbA1c (%) over a period of 3 months. We also explored the presence of “post‐suspend hyperglycemia” with the 640G device.

Results

After changing to the 640G device, the percentage of time in hypoglycemia (glucose <50 mg/dL) significantly decreased from 0.39% (0–1.51%) to 0% (0–0.44%; P = 0.0407). The percentage of time in hyperglycemia (glucose >180 mg/dL) significantly increased from 25.53% (15.78–44.14%) to 32.9% (24.71–45.49%; P = 0.0373). HbA1c significantly increased from 7.6 ± 1.0% to 7.8 ± 1.1% (P = 0.0161). From 1.5 to 4.5 h after the resumption of insulin delivery, the percentage of time in hyperglycemia was 32.23% (24.2–53.75%), but it was significantly lower, 2.78% (0–21.6%), when patients manually restarted the pump within 30 min compared with automatic resumption 31.2% (20–61.66%; P = 0.0063).

Conclusions

Predictive low‐glucose management is an effective tool for reducing hypoglycemia, but possibly elicits “post‐suspend hyperglycemia.” This information is useful for achieving better blood glucose control in the patients treated with PLGM.

The relationship between HbA1c and hypoglycaemia in patients with diabetes treated with insulin degludec versus insulin glargine 100 units/mL

AIM

Treat-to-target, randomized controlled trials have confirmed lower rates of hypoglycaemia at equivalent glycaemic control with insulin degludec (degludec) versus insulin glargine 100 units/mL (glargine U100) in patients with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D). Treat-to-target trials are designed to enable comparisons of safety and tolerability at a similar HbA1c level. In this post hoc analysis of the SWITCH 1 and 2 trials, we utilised a patient-level modelling approach to compare how glycaemic control might differ between basal insulins at a similar rate of hypoglycaemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data for HbA1c and symptomatic hypoglycaemia from the SWITCH 1 and SWITCH 2 trials were analyzed separately for patients with type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes, respectively. The association between the individual patient-level risk of hypoglycaemia and HbA1c was investigated using a Poisson regression model and used to estimate potential differences in glycaemic control with degludec versus glargine U100, at the same rate of hypoglycaemia.

RESULTS

Improvements in glycaemic control increased the incidence of hypoglycaemia with both basal insulins across diabetes types. Our analysis suggests that patients could achieve a mean HbA1c reduction of 0.70 [0.05; 2.20]_{95% CI} (for type 1 diabetes) or 0.96 [0.39; 1.99]_{95% CI} (for type 2 diabetes) percentage points (8 [1; 24]_{95% CI} or 10 [4; 22]_{95% CI} mmol/mol, respectively) further with degludec than with glargine U100 before incurring an equivalent risk of hypoglycaemia.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that patients in clinical practice may be able to achieve lower glycaemia targets with degludec versus glargine U100, before incurring an equivalent risk of hypoglycaemia.

Efficacy and Safety of Liraglutide 3.0 mg in Individuals With Overweight or Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Treated With Basal Insulin: The SCALE Insulin Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

Most individuals with type 2 diabetes also have obesity, and treatment with some diabetes medications, including insulin, can cause further weight gain. No approved chronic weight management medications have been prospectively investigated in individuals with overweight or obesity and insulin-treated type 2 diabetes. The primary objective of this study was to assess the effect of liraglutide 3.0 mg versus placebo on weight loss in this population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Satiety and Clinical Adiposity-Liraglutide Evidence (SCALE) Insulin was a 56-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multinational, multicenter trial in individuals with overweight or obesity and type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin and ≤2 oral antidiabetic drugs.

RESULTS

Individuals were randomized to liraglutide 3.0 mg (n = 198) or placebo (n = 198), combined with intensive behavioral therapy (IBT). At 56 weeks, mean weight change was -5.8% for liraglutide 3.0 mg versus -1.5% with placebo (estimated treatment difference -4.3% [95% CI -5.5; -3.2]; P < 0.0001). With liraglutide 3.0 mg, 51.8% of individuals achieved ≥5% weight loss versus 24.0% with placebo (odds ratio 3.41 [95% CI 2.19; 5.31]; P < 0.0001). Liraglutide 3.0 mg was associated with significantly greater reductions in mean HbA_1c and mean daytime glucose values and less need for insulin versus placebo, despite a treat-to-glycemic-target protocol. More hypoglycemic events were observed with placebo than liraglutide 3.0 mg. No new safety or tolerability issues were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In individuals with overweight or obesity and insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, liraglutide 3.0 mg as an adjunct to IBT was superior to placebo regarding weight loss and improved glycemic control despite lower doses of basal insulin and without increases in hypoglycemic events.

Safety and efficacy of oral semaglutide versus dulaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (PIONEER 10): an open-label, randomised, active-controlled, phase 3a trial

BACKGROUND

New glucose-lowering medications need to be investigated in east Asian populations, as the clinical characteristics of type 2 diabetes differ between western and east Asian patients. The PIONEER 10 study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of oral semaglutide versus dulaglutide in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

PIONEER 10 was an open-label, randomised, active-controlled, phase 3a trial done at 36 sites (clinics and university hospitals) in Japan. Patients aged 20 years and older with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned (2:2:2:1) to receive once-daily oral semaglutide 3 mg, 7 mg, or 14 mg, or once-weekly subcutaneous dulaglutide 0·75 mg for 52 weeks, as an add-on to their background medication. The primary endpoint was the number of treatment-emergent adverse events over 57 weeks. Supportive secondary endpoints (not controlled for multiplicity) included mean change from baseline in HbA_1c and bodyweight at 52 weeks. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03015220.

FINDINGS

Between Jan 10, and May 30, 2017, 492 patients were screened and 458 were randomly assigned to oral semaglutide 3 mg (n=131), 7 mg (n=132), or 14 mg (n=130), or dulaglutide 0·75 mg (n=65). 448 (98%) patients completed the trial. Adverse events occurred in 101 (77%) of 131 patients with oral semaglutide 3 mg, 106 (80%) of 132 with oral semaglutide 7 mg, 111 (85%) of 130 with oral semaglutide 14 mg, and 53 (82%) of 65 with dulaglutide. The most common adverse events were infections and gastrointestinal events. Gastrointestinal adverse events (mostly mild and transient constipation and nausea) occurred in a dose-dependent manner with oral semaglutide. Adverse events led to premature treatment discontinuation in four (3%) of 131 patients receiving oral semaglutide 3 mg, eight (6%) of 132 receiving oral semaglutide 7 mg, eight (6%) of 130 receiving oral semaglutide 14 mg, and two (3%) of 65 receiving dulaglutide. No deaths or severe hypoglycaemic events were reported. Based on the treatment policy estimand (ie, regardless of study drug discontinuation or rescue medication use), estimated mean reductions in HbA_1c from baseline (8·3%) to week 52 were -0·9 percentage points (SE 0·1) with oral semaglutide 3 mg, -1·4 percentage points (0·1) with oral semaglutide 7 mg, -1·7 percentage points (0·1) with oral semaglutide 14 mg, and -1·4 percentage points (0·1) with dulaglutide (estimated treatment difference -0·3% [95% CI -0·6 to -0·1] for oral semaglutide 14 mg vs dulaglutide; p=0·0170). Estimated mean changes in bodyweight from baseline (72·1 kg) to week 52 were 0·0 kg (SE 0·3) with oral semaglutide 3 mg, -0·9 kg (0·3) with oral semaglutide 7 mg, -1·6 kg (0·3) with oral semaglutide 14 mg, and 1·0 kg (0·4) with dulaglutide (estimated treatment difference -2·6 kg [95% CI -3·5 to -1·6] for oral semaglutide 14 mg vs dulaglutide; p<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Oral semaglutide was well tolerated in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. Once-daily oral semaglutide significantly reduced HbA_1c (14 mg dose) and bodyweight (7 mg and 14 mg doses) versus weekly subcutaneous dulaglutide 0·75 mg by week 52.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk.

Hypoglycaemia is reduced with use of inhaled Technosphere® Insulin relative to insulin aspart in type 1 diabetes mellitus

AIM

To evaluate the effect of final HbA1c levels on the incidences of hypoglycaemia in participants with type 1 diabetes treated with inhaled Technosphere® Insulin or subcutaneous insulin aspart, reported in alignment with the International Hypoglycaemia Study Group recommendations.

METHODS

In the randomized, phase 3, multicentre AFFINITY-1 study, adults (N = 375) who had type 1 diabetes for ≥ 12 months and an HbA1c level of 58-86 mmol/mol (7.5-10.0%) were randomized to receive basal insulin plus either inhaled Technosphere Insulin or subcutaneous insulin aspart. This was a post-hoc regression analysis on a subset (N = 279) of the randomized AFFINITY-1 cohort for whom baseline and end-of-treatment HbA1c values were reported. Primary outcome measures were incidence and event rates for levels 1, 2 and 3 hypoglycaemia, respectively defined as blood glucose levels of ≤ 3.9 mmol/l, < 3.0 mmol/l or requiring external assistance for recovery.

RESULTS

Participants treated with Technosphere Insulin experienced statistically significantly fewer level 1 and 2 hypoglycaemic events and a lower incidence of level 3 hypoglycaemia than participants treated with insulin aspart. The lower rate of hypoglycaemia with Technosphere Insulin was observed across the range of end-of-treatment HbA1c levels. Technosphere Insulin was associated with higher rates of hypoglycaemia 30-60 min after meals, but significantly lower rates 2-6 h after meals.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants using Technosphere Insulin experienced clinically non-inferior glycaemic control and lower hypoglycaemia rates across a range of HbA1c levels compared with participants receiving insulin aspart. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01445951.