Efficacy and safety of dulaglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a comprehensive review of the dulaglutide clinical data focusing on the AWARD phase 3 clinical trial program

Peptide GLP-1 receptor agonists: From injection to oral delivery strategies

Peptide glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are effective drugs for treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and have been proven to benefit the heart and kidney. Apart from oral semaglutide, which does not require injection, other peptide GLP-1RAs need to be subcutaneously administered. However, oral semaglutide also faces significant challenges, such as low bioavailability and frequent gastrointestinal discomfort. Thus, it is imperative that advanced oral strategies for peptide GLP-1RAs need to be explored. This review mainly compares the current advantages and disadvantages of various oral delivery strategies for peptide GLP-1RAs in the developmental stage and discusses the latest research progress of peptide GLP-1RAs, providing a useful guide for the development of new oral peptide GLP-1RA drugs.

One-Year Efficacy and Safety of Dulaglutide in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Study of Asian Patients

PURPOSE

Dulaglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist that is not cleared by the kidneys and has proven efficacy and safety in patients with diabetic kidney disease. We aimed to evaluate the 1-year efficacy of dulaglutide in patients with diabetic kidney disease who have used the drug for more than 1 year.

METHODS

This retrospective, observational study comprised 131 patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 who had received dulaglutide for more than one year between June 2016 and May 2023. The primary outcome measures were changes in glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and body weight from baseline to the 12-month follow-up, with assessments performed at six-month intervals. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, sex, baseline body mass index, FPG, and HbA1c, and insulin administration at baseline and last follow-up.

FINDINGS

The mean age was 60.0 ± 10.2 years, and 61.1% of the participants were males. Baseline HbA1c, FPG, and body weight were 9.1% (76.0 mmol/mol), 186.8 mg/dL, and 79.3 kg, respectively. Dulaglutide significantly reduced HbA1c, FPG, and body weight from baseline to the 12-month follow-up (mean ± standard error: -1.2 ± 0.1%, -34.8 ± 6.9 mg/dL, and -2.3 ± 0.5 kg, respectively; P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed significant differences in HbA1c reduction based on baseline HbA1c.

IMPLICATIONS

Dulaglutide exhibited sustained glucose-lowering and weight-reduction effects during the initial 1 year of treatment in patients with diabetic kidney disease. Altogether, dulaglutide could serve as a favorable long-term therapeutic option for patients with diabetic kidney disease in real-world clinical settings.

Efficacy and Safety of the Combination or Monotherapy With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An update Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with sodium-glucose cotransporter2(SGLT-2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) receptor agonists in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

To construct an exhaustive database of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists, a methodical search was undertaken across a range of databases, such as Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, from their inception to January 2023. Following this, a meta-analysis was executed to amalgamate the collected data, which allowed for the calculation of standardized mean differences (SMDs), odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for a spectrum of outcomes. This analytical approach was designed to yield a quantitative evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy and safety profile of SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists for the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS

When compared to GLP-1 agonist therapy alone, the combination therapy did not significantly reduce fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.27, 0.10; p=0.35), body weight (95% CI: -0.18, 0.18; p=1.00), Glycosylated Hemoglobin, Type A1C (HbA1c) (95% CI: -0.29, 0.07; p=0.22), or systolic blood pressure (SBP) values (95% CI: -0.29, 0.06; p=0.21). In contrast, when compared to SGLT-2 inhibitor therapy alone, combination therapy significantly decreased FPG by 0.24 mmol/L (95% CI: -0.43, -0.05; p=0.01), HbA1c by 0.45% (95% CI: -0.72, -0.18; p=0.001), and SBP by 0.12 mmHg (95% CI: -0.24, 0.00; p=0.05). However, the combination therapy failed to demonstrate a significant reduction in body weight when compared with either SGLT-2 inhibitor therapy (95% CI: -0.20, 0.05; p=0.24) or GLP-1 agonist therapy (95% CI: -0.18, 0.18; p=1.00). Additionally, the combination therapy did not increase the incidence of hypoglycemia. It should be noted that data regarding mortality and cardiovascular outcomes were limited.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination treatment of SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists effectively reduces HbA1c, FPG, and SBP without elevating the risk of hypoglycemia when compared to monotherapy with SGLT-2 inhibitors. However, these beneficial effects were not observed when the combination therapy was compared with GLP-1 receptor agonist treatment alone.

Effects of dulaglutide and trelagliptin on beta-cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled study: DUET-beta study

Aims

This randomized, open-label, parallel-group, controlled trial compared the effects of dulaglutide and trelagliptin on beta-cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

For 24 weeks, participants received dulaglutide (0.75 mg/week) or trelagliptin (100 mg/week), after which beta-cell function was evaluated using a glucagon stimulation test-based disposition index. The primary endpoint was the change in disposition index over the 24-week treatment period.

Results

Fifty patients with type 2 diabetes who received metformin with or without basal insulin were randomized to receive dulaglutide or trelagliptin. Forty-eight patients completed the 24-week dulaglutide (n = 23) or trelagliptin (n = 25) treatment. The dulaglutide group reduced HbA1c levels more than the trelagliptin group (dulaglutide: - 0.77% ± 0.07% vs. trelagliptin: - 0.57% ± 0.07%; p = 0.04). Change in disposition index during the 24 weeks did not differ between the groups (dulaglutide: - 0.07 ± 1.08 vs. trelagliptin: + 0.59 ± 1.04; p = 0.66), but the dulaglutide group increased HOMA2-%β levels more than the trelagliptin group (dulaglutide: + 26.2 ± 4.3% vs. trelagliptin: + 5.4 ± 4.1%; p = 0.001). The dulaglutide group showed greater body fat mass reduction than the trelagliptin group (dulaglutide: - 1.2 ± 0.3 kg vs. trelagliptin: - 0.3 ± 0.2 kg; p = 0.02) without skeletal muscle mass loss.

Conclusion

Dulaglutide and trelagliptin had similar effects on beta-cell function according to the glucagon stimulation test-based disposition index. However, dulaglutide promoted improved HOMA2-%β levels compared to trelagliptin and body fat mass was reduced without loss of skeletal muscle mass (UMIN-CTR 000024164).

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13340-024-00717-6.

Real-World Effectiveness of Once-Weekly Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (OW GLP-1RAs) in Comparison with Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors (DPP-4is) for Glycemic Control and Weight Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (RELATE)

BACKGROUND

The efficacy of once-weekly (OW) glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) has been established in several trials in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, real-world evidence on their effectiveness is limited. This study evaluated the effectiveness of OW GLP-1RA regarding glycemic and weight outcomes, and relative to DPP-4i in a comparator analysis.

METHODS

This observational cohort study evaluated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and weight outcomes in people with T2DM with two or more prescription claims for the same OW GLP-1RA using a pre-post study design (including for a semaglutide OW T2DM subgroup, hereafter referred to as semaglutide). Comparator analysis for the same outcome was performed for OW GLP-1RAs versus DPP-4i and semaglutide subgroup versus DPP-4i. A linked patient population from the IQVIA PharMetrics® Plus database and the Ambulatory Electronic Medical Records (AEMR) database was analyzed using data from January 2017 to April 2022. HbA1c and weight were assessed at baseline and at the end of the 12-month post-index period. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to adjust for imbalances in baseline patient characteristics in the comparator analysis.

RESULTS

In the pre-post analysis, a greater numerical reduction in HbA1c and weight was observed for the semaglutide subgroup (N = 354) relative to the OW GLP-1RA cohort (N = 921). In the semaglutide subgroup, 52.5% and 34.2% of patients achieved HbA1c of < 7.0% and ≥ 5% weight loss, respectively. For the comparator analysis, the OW GLP-1RAs (N = 651) were significantly more effective (p < 0.001) in reducing HbA1c (- 1.5% vs. -  1.0%) and weight (- 3.2 kg vs. -  1.0 kg) than the DPP-4is (N = 431). Similarly, the semaglutide cohort (N = 251) also displayed more effectiveness (p < 0.001) in reducing HbA1c (- 1.7% vs. -  0.9%) and weight (- 4.1 kg vs. -  1.3 kg) than the respective DPP-4i cohort (N = 417). Patients initiating OW GLP-1RAs, including the semaglutide cohort, were at least twice as likely to achieve HbA1c and weight outcomes as well as composite outcomes compared with those initiating DPP-4is.

CONCLUSION

The study reinforces that OW GLP-1RAs are more effective in glycemic control and weight reduction compared with DPP-4is in people with T2DM in the real-world setting. These findings align with the recommendation in the current guidelines for utilizing glucose-lowering treatment regimens that support weight-management goals in people with T2DM.

First-line treatment with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetic population at low risk of cardiovascular disease: a meta-analysis

Background

The benefit of first-line use of sodium-dependent glucose transport 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with low risk of cardiovascular diseases are not clear.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify eligible randomized controlled trials. We used the odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) to assess the dichotomous and continuous variable, respectively.

Results

Thirteen studies involving 2,885 T2DM at low risk of cardiovascular diseases were included. Compared to placebo, first line use of SGLT2i significantly reduced glycosylated hemoglobin type A1C (HbA1c) (MD: -0.72), weight (MD: -1.32) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (MD: -27.05) levels. Compared with metformin, SGLT2i reduced body weight (MD: -1.50) and FPG (MD: -10.13) more effectively, with similar reduction for HbA1c (MD: -0.05). No significant increased safety adverse was found for SGLT2i, including nasopharyngitis (OR: 1.07), urinary tract infection (OR: 2.31), diarrhea (OR: 1.18) and hypoglycemia (OR: 1.06). GLP-1RAs significantly reduced HbA1c (MD: -1.13), weight (MD: -2.12) and FPG (MD: -31.44) levels as first-line therapy compared to placebo. GLP-1RAs significantly increased occurrence of diarrhea (OR: 2.18), hypoglycemia (OR: 3.10), vomiting (OR: 8.22), and nausea (OR: 4.41).

Conclusion

First line use of SGLT2i and GLP-1RAs is effective in reducing HbA1c, weight, and FPG levels in T2DM patients at low risk for cardiovascular disease. SGLT2i may be superior to metformin in controlling body weight and FPG. GLP-1RAs may increase the occurrence of diarrhea, hypoglycemia, vomiting, and nausea.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. https://www.york.ac.uk/inst/crd, CRD42022347233).

The short-term cost-effectiveness of once-weekly semaglutide versus once-weekly dulaglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Colombian adults

Background

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a highly prevalent disease worldwide and in Colombia, representing one of the main causes of death and placing a considerable burden on healthcare systems. 13 classes of drugs are approved for the treatment of T2DM, with Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists being a first-line treatment option for patients with or at high risk of certain cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. The objective of this study is to conduct a short-term cost-effectiveness analysis of once-weekly semaglutide versus once-weekly dulaglutide in Colombian adults with T2DM, from a third-party payer perspective.

Methods

Numbers needed to treat were calculated for different single and composite endpoints of the SUSTAIN 7 trial, annual costs for once weekly semaglutide 1.0 mg and dulaglutide 1.5 mg were extracted from the public SISMED database. With these inputs a cost of control model was developed, to obtain the annual cost of bringing one T2DM patient to relevant clinical outcomes by using semaglutide or dulaglutide.

Results

Semaglutide was considered cost-effective compared to dulaglutide across all pre-specified endpoints, even in the different scenarios evaluated in the sensitivity analyses, and in a particularly pronounced manner for weight loss outcomes. Semaglutide at a dose of 1.0 mg once-weekly was cost-effective compared to dulaglutide 1.5 mg across all outcomes in the short-term, making it an appropriate first-line choice in the treatment of T2DM when deciding between these two GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Conclusions

This is the first short-term cost-effectiveness study of semaglutide and dulaglutide in T2DM Colombian patients. Our modeled results suggest that once-weekly semaglutide represents a cost-effective option for treating individuals with T2DM in Colombia who are not achieving glycaemia control with metformin, and it would be expected to improve HbA1C, promote greater weight loss and reduce costs from a third-payer perspective compared with treatment with dulaglutide.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles: An emerging approach in overcoming the challenges with oral delivery of proteins and peptides

Proteins and peptides (PPs), as therapeutics are widely explored in the past few decades, by virtue of their inherent advantages like high specificity and biocompatibility with minimal side effects. However, owing to their macromolecular size, poor membrane permeability, and high enzymatic susceptibility, the effective delivery of PPs is often challenging. Moreover, their subjection to varying environmental conditions, when administered orally, results in PPs denaturation and structural conformation, thereby lowering their bioavailability. Hence, for effective delivery with enhanced bioavailability, protection of PPs using nanoparticle-based delivery system has gained a growing interest. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), with their tailored morphology and pore size, high surface area, easy surface modification, versatile loading capacity, excellent thermal stability, and good biocompatibility, are eligible candidates for the effective delivery of macromolecules to the target site. This review highlights the different barriers hindering the oral absorption of PPs and the various strategies available to overcome them. In addition, the potential benefits of MSNs, along with their diversifying role in controlling the loading of PPs and their release under the influence of specific stimuli, are also discussed in length. Further, the tuning of MSNs for enhanced gene transfection efficacy is also highlighted. Since extensive research is ongoing in this area, this review is concluded with an emphasis on the potential risks of MSNs that need to be addressed prior to their clinical translation.

A feasibility study of the combination of intranasal insulin with dulaglutide for cognition in older adults with metabolic syndrome at high dementia risk - Study rationale and design

INTRODUCTION

We present the rationale and design of a double-blind placebo-controlled feasibility trial combining intranasal insulin (INI) with dulaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, to improve cognition in older adults with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Since both INI and dulaglutide have beneficial effects on the cerebrovascular disease (CVD), we anticipate that improved CVD will underlie the hypothesized cognitive benefits.

METHODS

This 12-months trial will include 80 older adults aged > 60 with MetS and MCI, randomized to 4 groups: INI/dulaglutide injection, intranasal placebo/dulaglutide injection, INI/placebo injection, and intranasal placebo/placebo injection. Feasibility of combining INI with dulaglutide will be tested by examining the ease of use of INI (20IU, twice/day) with dulaglutide (1.5 mg/week), adherence, and safety profile are the efficacy of combination therapy on global cognition and neurobiological markers: cerebral blood flow, cerebral glucose utilization, white matter hyperintensities, Alzheimer's related blood biomarkers and expression of insulin signaling proteins measured in brain-derived exosomes. Efficacy will be assessed for the intent-to-treat sample.

DISCUSSION

This feasibility study is anticipated to provide the basis for a multi-center large-scale randomized clinical trial of the cognitive benefits of the combination of INI with dulaglutide in individuals enriched for CVD and at high dementia risk.

Clinical Characteristics Associated with Adherence and Persistence in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated with Dulaglutide

Aims

This study is aimed at identifying clinical characteristics associated with adherence and persistence in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with dulaglutide.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study used the Common Data Model at Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea. Eligible subjects were followed for one year. Multivariate logistic and linear regressions were used to identify the factors associated with categorical (i.e., adherence status and continuation status) and continuous (i.e., proportion of days covered, or PDC, and treatment duration) outcome measures, respectively. Subgroup analysis was conducted involving patients at high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk (i.e., having ≥2 identifiable risk factors).

Results

A total of 236 patients were included. Increase in age and estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly increased the likelihood of adherence and treatment continuation. In contrast, baseline obesity and baseline use of sulfonylurea and insulin significantly reduced the likelihood of continuing dulaglutide. Similarly, increase in age, switching dulaglutide dose, and baseline neuropathy significantly increased PDC and treatment duration. None of the adherence or persistence outcome measures were significantly different between patients at high CVD risk and their matched controls. Baseline hypertension and the higher baseline LDL-C level significantly increased the likelihood of adherence in patients at high CVD risk.

Conclusion

Clinical characteristics of dulaglutide users that could have affected their adherence and persistence were identified. Physicians treating T2DM patients with dulaglutide can refer to those clinical characteristics identified in this study to optimize the adherence and persistence to dulaglutide.

Dulaglutide (Trulicity)-Induced Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report

The article discusses the use of dulaglutide (Trulicity) in treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. Dulaglutide is a synthetic analog of glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) that binds to GLP-1 receptors, enhancing insulin secretion and reducing postprandial glucagon and food intake. Dulaglutide has a longer half-life than GLP-1, making it more clinically useful. The recommended dosage of dulaglutide is 0.75 mg/0.5 mL subcutaneously once weekly, which can be increased as needed for adequate glycemic control. We describe a case of acute pancreatitis in a 37-year-old male with a past medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus who was admitted for epigastric pain radiating to the back. Lipase level was elevated at 1508, and a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen showed fat stranding around the pancreas consistent with pancreatitis. The patient was on dulaglutide (Trulicity) at 0.75 mg q. weekly for about two years; this dose was increased to 1.5 mg q. weekly two months ago. He developed symptoms of abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting after receiving the last dose of Trulicity, which was two weeks before he presented to the emergency department as a cause of acute pancreatitis. Dulaglutide use has been known to cause a mild elevation of pancreatic enzyme levels; there have been few reported cases of dulaglutide-associated acute pancreatitis in the literature. The case report highlights the adverse effects of dulaglutide in diabetic patients and the importance of monitoring pancreatic enzyme levels in patients taking dulaglutide.

Safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of TG103, a novel long-acting GLP-1/Fc fusion protein after a single ascending dose in Chinese healthy subjects

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

TG103 is a novel GLP-1/Fc fusion protein, developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. This trial was designed to assess the safety and tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) profiles after single ascending dose of TG103 in healthy Chinese subjects.

METHOD

In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase I study, Chinese healthy subjects were admitted consecutively to TG103 3 mg, 7.5 mg, 15 mg, and 22.5 mg group with 8 subjects per group and randomized in a 3:1 ratio to receive TG103 treatment or placebo. Following a single subcutaneous(s.c.) injections of TG103, safety and tolerability were evaluated and blood samples were collected for PK and PD analysis at the specified time-points.

RESULT

Overall, 32 healthy subjects were enrolled and completed the study. During the study, a total of 84 adverse effects (AEs) were reported in 25 subjects, all were mild or moderate and resolved spontaneously without intervention. The most common treatment related AEs in TG103 group were decreased appetite (41.7%), nausea, flatulence, elevated urinary β2-microglobulin, increased serum total bile acid (20.8% each), decreased high-density lipoprotein (16.7%), abdominal distension (12.5%). After a single s.c. administration of TG103 3-22.5 mg, the median T_max was 36∼48 hours, and mean t_1/2 was about 147.16∼184.72 hours. The mean C_max for each group was 94.35±52.19, 337.67±56.71, 757.67±206.99, 1236.33±666.25 ng/mL, with AUC_0-t of 14.93±7.67, 59.15±7.39, 91.79±20.41, 163.61±55.99 μg·h/mL, respectively. It showed a linear pharmacokinetic profile in the single dose of TG103 3 mg to 22.5 mg. Compared with placebo, fasting blood glucose decreased in all dose groups, most notably in the 15 mg group, which was consistent with the changes in blood glucose during OGTT, while 2-hour postprandial glucose decreased in all dose groups except 3 mg group.

CONCLUSION

TG103 offers a potential option for hypoglycemic therapy with good tolerability and safety.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03990090; registered 18 June, 2019.

GLP-1/GIP analogues: potential impact in the landscape of obesity pharmacotherapy

INTRODUCTION

: Obesity is recognised as a major healthcare challenge. Following years of slow progress in discovery of safe, effective therapies for weight management, recent approval of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) mimetics, liraglutide and semaglutide, for obesity has generated considerable excitement. It is anticipated these agents will pave the way for application of tirzepatide, a highly effective glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR), GLP-1R co-agonist recently approved for management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

AREAS COVERED

: Following promising weight loss in obese individuals in Phase III clinical trials, liraglutide and semaglutide were approved for weight management without diabetes. Tirzepatide has attained Fast Track designation for obesity management by the US Food and Drug Association. This narrative review summarises experimental, preclinical and clinical data for these agents and related GLP-1R/GIPR co-agonists, prioritising clinical research published within the last 10 years where possible.

EXPERT OPINION

: GLP-1R mimetics are often discontinued within 24-months, owing to gastrointestinal side-effects, meaning long-term application of these agents in obesity is questioned. Combined GIPR/GLP-1R agonism appears to induce fewer side-effects, indicating GLP-1R/GIPR co-agonists may be more suitable for enduring obesity management. After years of debate, this GIPR-biased GLP-1R/GIPR co-agonist highlights the therapeutic promise of including GIPR modulation for diabetes and obesity therapy.

Real-World Efficacy of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Receptor Agonist, Dulaglutide, on Metabolic Parameters in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study

The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) dulaglutide has been shown to improve body weight and glycemic control and reduce major cardiovascular (CV) events. In Japan, dulaglutide is used at a fixed dose of 0.75 mg, which is lower than that in Europe and North America. However, the reports of real-world efficacy on metabolic parameters in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are limited. This study aimed to examine the real-world efficacy of GLP-1RA dulaglutide on metabolic parameters in Japanese patients with T2DM. We retrospectively selected patients with T2DM who had been prescribed dulaglutide continuously for 12 months or longer between September 2015 and December 2020 and compared metabolic parameters at baseline with the data at 12 months after the start of dulaglutide. One hundred twenty-one patients were enrolled in this study. The 12-month dulaglutide treatment reduced body weight by 1.7 kg and hemoglobin A1c by 1.1%. Significant improvements were also observed in serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG) and non-HDL-C. The change in HbA1c during dulaglutide treatment was significantly correlated with the changes in HDL-C (R = −0.236, p = 0.013), LDL-C (R = 0.377, p = 0.005) and non-HDL-C (R = 0.415, p < 0.001). The improvements in HbA1c, HDL-C, TG and non-HDL-C were greater in patients concurrently treated with SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) at baseline. In conclusion, the treatment with dulaglutide has beneficial effects on multiple CV risk factors in Japanese patients with T2DM.

Weight-dependent and weight-independent effects of dulaglutide on blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists may experience reductions in weight and blood pressure. The primary objective of the current study was to determine the weight-dependent and weight-independent effects of ~ 6 months treatment with dulaglutide 1.5 mg treatment in participants with T2D.

METHODS

Mediation analysis was conducted for five randomized, placebo-controlled trials of dulaglutide 1.5 mg to estimate the weight-dependent (i.e., mediated by weight) and weight-independent effects from dulaglutide vs. placebo on change from baseline for systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and pulse pressure. A random-effects meta-analysis combined these results. To investigate a dose response between dulaglutide 4.5 mg and placebo, mediation analysis was first conducted in AWARD-11 to estimate the weight-dependent and weight-independent effects of dulaglutide 4.5 mg vs. 1.5 mg, followed by an indirect comparison with the mediation result for dulaglutide 1.5 mg vs. placebo.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were largely similar across the trials. In the mediation meta-analysis of placebo-controlled trials, the total treatment effect of dulaglutide 1.5 mg after placebo-adjustment on SBP was - 2.6 mmHg (95% CI - 3.8, - 1.5; p < 0.001) and was attributed to both a weight-dependent effect (- 0.9 mmHg; 95% CI: - 1.4, - 0.5; p < 0.001) and a weight-independent effect (- 1.5 mmHg; 95% CI: - 2.6, - 0.3; p = 0.01), accounting for 36% and 64% of the total effect, respectively. For pulse pressure, the total treatment effect of dulaglutide (- 2.5 mmHg; 95% CI: - 3.5, - 1.5; p < 0.001) was 14% weight-dependent and 86% weight-independent. For DBP there was limited impact of dulaglutide treatment, with only a small weight-mediated effect. Dulaglutide 4.5 mg demonstrated an effect on reduction in SBP and pulse pressure beyond that of dulaglutide 1.5 mg which was primarily weight mediated.

CONCLUSIONS

Dulaglutide 1.5 mg reduced SBP and pulse pressure in people with T2D across the placebo-controlled trials in the AWARD program. While up to one third of the effect of dulaglutide 1.5 mg on SBP and pulse pressure was due to weight reduction, the majority was independent of weight. A greater understanding of the pleotropic effects of GLP-1 RA that contribute to reduction in blood pressure could support developing future approaches for treating hypertension. Trial registrations (clinicaltrials.gov) NCT01064687, NCT00734474, NCT01769378, NCT02597049, NCT01149421, NCT03495102.

Strategies to improve the physicochemical properties of peptide-based drugs

Peptides are a rapid-growing class of therapeutics with unique and desirable physicochemical properties. Due to disadvantages such as low membrane permeability and susceptibility to proteolytic degradation, peptide-based drugs have limited bioavailability, a short half-life, and rapid in vivo elimination. Various strategies can be applied to improve the physicochemical properties of peptide-based drugs to overcome limitations such as limited tissue residence time, metabolic instability, and low permeability. Applied strategies including backbone modifications, side chain modifications, conjugation with polymers, modification of peptide termini, fusion to albumin, conjugation with the Fc portion of antibodies, cyclization, stapled peptides, pseudopeptides, cell-penetrating peptide conjugates, conjugation with lipids, and encapsulation in nanocarriers are discussed.

GLP-1 receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity: Role as a promising approach

Obesity is a complex disease characterized by excessive fat accumulation which is caused by genetic, environmental and other factors. In recent years, there has been an increase in the morbidity, disability rate,and mortality due to obesity, making it great threat to people's health and lives, and increasing public health care expenses. Evidence from previous studies show that weight loss can significantly reduce the risk of obesity-related complications and chronic diseases. Diet control, moderate exercise, behavior modification programs, bariatric surgery and prescription drug treatment are the major interventions used to help people lose weight. Among them, anti-obesity drugs have high compliance rates and cause noticeable short-term effects in reducing obese levels. However, given the safety or effectiveness concerns of anti-obesity drugs, many of the currently used drugs have limited clinical use. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists are a group of drugs that targets incretin hormone action, and its receptors are widely distributed in nerves, islets, heart, lung, skin, and other organs. Several animal experiments and clinical trials have demonstrated that GLP-1R agonists are more effective in treating or preventing obesity. Therefore, GLP-1R agonists are promising agents for the treatment of obese individuals. This review describes evidence from previous research on the effects of GLP-1R agonists on obesity. We anticipate that this review will generate data that will help biomedical researchers or clinical workers develop obesity treatments based on GLP-1R agonists.

Safety and tolerability of semaglutide across the SUSTAIN and PIONEER phase IIIa clinical trial programmes

AIM

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists improve glycaemic control: some are now available as oral and subcutaneous formulations, and some have indications for reducing cardiovascular risk. The expanded scope for these therapies warrants comprehensive safety evaluations. We report the safety/tolerability of subcutaneous and oral semaglutide from the SUSTAIN and PIONEER clinical trial programmes, respectively.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adverse events (AEs) from 16 randomized placebo- or active-controlled phase IIIa trials in patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 11 159) including once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide (n = 3150; SUSTAIN trials) or once-daily oral semaglutide (n = 4116; PIONEER trials) were analysed. Data pools were analysed for each programme, with separate analyses of cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs; n = 6480).

RESULTS

In the phase IIIa pools, gastrointestinal disorders were reported in 41.9%/39.1% of patients with subcutaneous/oral semaglutide, respectively (most prevalent during initiation/escalation) versus 22.0%/24.8% with comparators. Rates of kidney disorders, acute pancreatitis, malignant neoplasms, hypoglycaemia, diabetic retinopathy, heart failure and other cardiovascular events were similar for semaglutide versus comparators. Cholelithiasis incidence was higher with subcutaneous and oral semaglutide versus placebo. Diabetic retinopathy incidence was higher with subcutaneous semaglutide versus placebo in SUSTAIN 6. Small pulse rate increases occurred with both formulations; there was no increased rate of arrhythmias. Fatal AE incidence was similar between semaglutide and comparators. Versus placebo, CVOTs showed a reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events with subcutaneous semaglutide and non-inferiority criteria were met with oral semaglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common AEs with semaglutide were gastrointestinal disorders, which decreased with continued therapy. These comprehensive safety/tolerability data may better inform patient selection and guidance in care.

Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: risk reduction and early intervention

People with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have a higher risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) than those without. This increased risk begins with pre-diabetes, potentially 7-10 years before T2D is diagnosed. Selecting medication for patients with T2D should focus on reducing the risk of CVD and established CVD. Within the last decade, several antihyperglycemic agents with proven CV benefit have been approved for the treatment of hyperglycemia and for the prevention of primary and secondary CV events, including glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors. T2D treatment guidelines recommend that an antihyperglycemic agent with proven CV benefit should be used after metformin in patients with high risk of or established CVD, regardless of glycated hemoglobin levels. Despite the availability of antihyperglycemic agents with proven CV benefit, and guidelines on when to use them, less than one in four patients with T2D and CVD receive this type of therapy. These findings suggest a potential gap between current recommendations and clinical practice. This article reviews the approved agents with CV indications, with a focus on injectable GLP-1RAs, and their place in the T2D treatment paradigm according to current guidelines. We aim to provide primary healthcare providers with in-depth information on subsets of patients who would benefit from this type of therapy and when it should be initiated, taking into consideration safety and tolerability and other disease factors. An individualized treatment approach is increasingly recommended in the management of T2D, employing a shared decision-making strategy between patients and healthcare professionals.

Hypolipidemic effect and molecular mechanism of ginsenosides: a review based on oxidative stress

Hyperlipidemia is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular and endocrine diseases. However, effective approaches for treating this common metabolic disorder remain limited. Ginseng has traditionally been used as a natural medicine for invigorating energy or "Qi" and has been demonstrated to possess antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. A large number of studies have shown that ginsenosides, the main active ingredient of ginseng, have lipid-lowering effects. However, there remains a lack of systematic reviews detailing the molecular mechanisms by which ginsenosides reduce blood lipid levels, especially in relation to oxidative stress. For this article, research studies detailing the molecular mechanisms through which ginsenosides regulate oxidative stress and lower blood lipids in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and its related diseases (diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and atherosclerosis) were comprehensively reviewed. The relevant papers were search on seven literature databases. According to the studies reviewed, ginsenosides Rb1, Rb2, Rb3, Re, Rg1, Rg3, Rh2, Rh4, and F2 inhibit oxidative stress by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, promoting fatty acid β-oxidation and autophagy, and regulating the intestinal flora to alleviate high blood pressure and improve the body's lipid status. These effects are related to the regulation of various signaling pathways, such as those of PPARα, Nrf2, mitogen-activated protein kinases, SIRT3/FOXO3/SOD, and AMPK/SIRT1. These findings suggest that ginseng is a natural medicine with lipid-lowering effects.

Clinical Recommendations to Manage Gastrointestinal Adverse Events in Patients Treated with Glp-1 Receptor Agonists: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are indicated in type 2 diabetes and obesity for their high efficacy in controlling glycaemia and inducing body weight loss, respectively. Patients may develop gastrointestinal adverse events (GI AEs), namely nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and/or constipation. To minimize their severity and duration, healthcare providers (HCPs) and patients must be aware of appropriate measures to follow while undergoing treatment. An expert panel comprising endocrinologists, nephrologists, primary care physicians, cardiologists, internists and diabetes nurse educators convened across virtual meetings to reach a consensus regarding these compelling recommendations. Firstly, specific guidelines are provided about how to reach the maintenance dose and how to proceed if GI AEs develop during dose-escalation. Secondly, specific directions are set about how to avoid/minimize nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation symptoms. Clinical scenarios representing common situations in daily practice, and infographics useful to guide both HCPs and patients, are included. These recommendations may prevent people with T2D and/or obesity from withdrawing from GLP-1 RAs treatment, thus benefitting from their superior effect on glycaemic control and weight loss.

Effect of expanded dulaglutide weekly doses (3.0 mg and 4.5 mg) on cardiovascular disease risk factors in participants with type 2 diabetes at increased cardiovascular disease risk: a post hoc analysis of the AWARD-11 study

AIMS

This post hoc analysis investigated the effect of dulaglutide on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in subgroups of participants at increased CVD risk in the AWARD-11 study.

METHODS

Participants who received once weekly dulaglutide 1.5, 3.0 or 4.5 mg for 52 weeks were categorized according to their baseline Framingham CVD risk category [low (N = 295), medium (N = 481) and high (N = 1054) risk], as well as their baseline CVD risk according to the REWIND study eligibility criteria (N = 953). Serum lipids and vital signs were assessed at baseline and at 52 weeks. Data were analysed as least squares mean percentage change from baseline for lipids and least squares mean change from baseline for vital signs.

RESULTS

Demographic and baseline clinical characteristics were balanced across doses within the CVD risk groups. In the high Framingham CVD risk and REWIND-like groups, dulaglutide resulted in dose-related decreases in total cholesterol (≤6.0%), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (≤8.8%), very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (≤19.4%) and triglycerides (≤21.5%), with little change in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased up to 5.6 mmHg and 1.6 mmHg, respectively, and heart rate increased up to 2 beats/min.

CONCLUSIONS

This post hoc analysis suggests the magnitude of the favourable effects of dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg on several cardiometabolic CVD risk factors was similar to, if not greater than, those of dulaglutide 1.5 mg among participants with type 2 diabetes and increased CVD risk.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov Identifier: NCT03495102.

The inhibitory effects of Dulaglutide on cellular senescence against high glucose in human retinal endothelial cells

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most important chronic microvascular complications of diabetes, and its main feature is diabetic glomerulosclerosis. Endothelial sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression is related to aging, and reducing SIRT1 expression promotes endothelial cell aging. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) can be synthesized in a variety of cells, such as endothelial cells. Dulaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drug, and it can activate the GLP-1 receptor and promote the conversion of intracellular adenosine triphosphate to adenylate cyclase, thereby activating phosphokinase A, and regulating blood glucose levels effectively in the body. We analyzed the effects of Dulaglutide on inhibiting cell senescence by studying the effects of its different concentrations on telomerase activity and senescence-related gene expression. Our results suggest that Dulaglutide can alleviate high-glucose-induced oxidative stress in human retinal endothelial cells by restoring the expressions of SIRT1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), thereby inhibiting the expression of PAI-1, and restoring telomerase activity. This suggests that the activity of retinal endothelial cells can be controlled by regulating the expression of SIRT1, so as to achieve the effect of treating diabetic retinopathy.

Therapeutic peptides: current applications and future directions

Peptide drug development has made great progress in the last decade thanks to new production, modification, and analytic technologies. Peptides have been produced and modified using both chemical and biological methods, together with novel design and delivery strategies, which have helped to overcome the inherent drawbacks of peptides and have allowed the continued advancement of this field. A wide variety of natural and modified peptides have been obtained and studied, covering multiple therapeutic areas. This review summarizes the efforts and achievements in peptide drug discovery, production, and modification, and their current applications. We also discuss the value and challenges associated with future developments in therapeutic peptides.

The Efficacy and Safety of the Combination Therapy With GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Aims: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors play a key role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of their combination, emphatically focusing on the effects of treatment duration and add-on drugs.

Methods: Seven databases were searched until June 2021 for randomized controlled trials with a duration of at least 12 weeks, evaluating the effects of combination therapy with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors.

Results: A total of eight eligible articles were included, pooling data retrieved from 1895 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Compared to monotherapy, combination therapy resulted in a greater reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2 h postprandial glucose (2 h PG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass index (BMI) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The decrease in HbA1c, body weight and FPG was maintained for more than 1 year, but these effects gradually regressed over time. The risk for hypoglycaemia was significantly increased with combination therapy. In addition, drug discontinuation, diarrhoea, injection-site-related events, nausea, vomiting and genital infections were more likely to occur in combination therapy.

Conclusion: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor combination therapy showed superior effects on reducing HbA1c, body weight, FPG, 2 h PG, SBP, BMI and LDL-C, without major safety issues, when compared with monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The mechanism and efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Since type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) and both have the same pathogenesis (e.g., insulin resistance), drugs used to treat T2DM have been gradually found to reduce the progression of AD in AD models. Of these drugs, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists are more effective and have fewer side effects. GLP-1R agonists have reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, neurotrophic effects, decreasing Aβ deposition and tau hyperphosphorylation in AD models, which may be a potential drug for the treatment of AD. However, this needs to be verified by further clinical trials. This study aims to summarize the current information on the mechanisms and effects of GLP-1R agonists in AD.

Switching from insulin to dulaglutide therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes: A real-world data study

AIM

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who require injectable therapy have been conventionally treated with insulin. A glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist was recently recommended as first-line injectable treatment, but few studies have investigated the effects of switching from insulin to dulaglutide. This study investigated the clinical efficacy and parameters affecting responses to dulaglutide as an alternative to insulin in patients with T2DM in a real-world clinical setting.

METHODS

Ninety-eight patients with T2DM who were switched from insulin to dulaglutide therapy were retrospectively evaluated. Changes in HbA1c concentrations were assessed after 6 months of consistent treatment with dulaglutide. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate parameters affecting the response to dulaglutide treatment.

RESULTS

After treatment with dulaglutide for 6 months, patients experienced changes in HbA1c of -0.95% (95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.30% to -0.59%, P < 0.001) and in body weight of -1.75 kg (95% CI: -2.42 to -1.08 kg, P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher baseline HbA1c was significantly associated with a greater reduction in HbA1c. The most frequent adverse events were gastrointestinal symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Switching from insulin to dulaglutide can lead to significant improvement in HbA1c levels and body weight ​reduction in T2DM patients over 6 months. Higher baseline HbA1c is associated with a better clinical response to dulaglutide.

Diabetes mellitus in dialysis and renal transplantation

Diabetes mellitus is the commonest cause of end-stage kidney failure worldwide and is a proven and significant risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Renal impairment has a significant impact on the physiology of glucose homeostasis as it reduces tissue sensitivity to insulin and reduces insulin clearance. Renal replacement therapy itself affects glucose control: peritoneal dialysis may induce hyperglycaemia due to glucose-rich dialysate and haemodialysis often causes hypoglycaemia due to the relatively low concentration of glucose in the dialysate. Autonomic neuropathy which is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes increases the risk for asymptomatic hypoglycaemia. Pharmacological options for improving glycaemic control are limited due to alterations to drug metabolism. Impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes are also common in the post-kidney-transplant setting and increase the risk of graft failure and mortality. This review seeks to summarise the literature and tackle the intricacies of glycaemic management in patients with CKD who are either on maintenance haemodialysis or have received a kidney transplant. It outlines changes to glycaemic targets, monitoring of glycaemic control, the use of oral hypoglycaemic agents, the management of severe hyperglycaemia in dialysis and kidney transplantation patients.

Gastrointestinal Tolerability of Once-Weekly Dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg: A Post Hoc Analysis of the Incidence and Prevalence of Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea in AWARD-11

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal (GI) events are the most frequent treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) reported for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist therapies. This post hoc analysis of the AWARD-11 phase 3 trial assessed the GI tolerability of dulaglutide at once-weekly doses of 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mg.

METHODS

The AWARD-11 trial randomized patients to once-weekly dulaglutide 1.5 mg (n = 612), 3.0 mg (n = 616), or 4.5 mg (n = 614) for 52 weeks. Patients started on dulaglutide 0.75 mg for 4 weeks before escalating stepwise every 4 weeks until the final randomized dose was reached. This study analyzes the onsets, incidences, prevalences, and severities of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea events reported through 52 weeks.

RESULTS

The highest incidences of nausea (≤ 8%), vomiting (≤ 2%), and diarrhea (≤ 4%) were primarily observed soon after the initiation of dulaglutide treatment at 0.75 mg. Incidence then declined throughout the remainder of the study, even with dose escalation to 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mg. Most of these GI TEAEs were mild to moderate in severity, with severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea events occurring in ≤ 0.6% of patients. Treatment discontinuation due to nausea was low across treatment groups (≤ 1.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The tolerability profiles of dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg were consistent with that of the 1.5-mg dose. Patients experiencing GI events were most likely to do so within 2 weeks of treatment initiation, and few patients experienced a new GI event after escalating to the 3.0-mg or 4.5-mg dose. Severe events were infrequent, and when they did occur, no relationship with dose at time of event was observed. Supplementary file1 (MP4 33880 kb).

Effect of dulaglutide 3.0 and 4.5 mg on weight in patients with type 2 diabetes: Exploratory analyses of AWARD-11

AIM

To evaluate the impact of dulaglutide 3.0 and 4.5 mg versus 1.5 mg on body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) based on exploratory analyses of the AWARD-11 trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were randomized to once-weekly dulaglutide 1.5 (n = 612), 3.0 (n = 616) or 4.5 mg (n = 614) for 52 weeks. The primary objective was superiority of dulaglutide 3.0 and/or 4.5 mg over 1.5 mg in HbA1c reduction at 36 weeks. Secondary and exploratory assessments included weight reduction in the overall trial population and baseline body mass index (BMI) and HbA1c subgroups.

RESULTS

At baseline, patients had a mean age of 57.1 years, HbA1c 8.6% (70 mmol/mol), weight 95.7 kg and BMI 34.2 kg/m² . At 36 weeks, dulaglutide 3.0 and 4.5 mg were superior to 1.5 mg for weight change from baseline (1.5 mg, -3.1 kg; 3.0 mg, -4.0 kg [P = .001]; 4.5 mg, -4.7 kg [P < .001]). Higher dulaglutide doses were associated with numerically greater weight reduction compared with 1.5 mg in each baseline BMI and HbA1c subgroup. Absolute weight reduction increased with increasing BMI category, but percentage weight loss was similar between subgroups. Weight reductions with dulaglutide were greater in patients with lower versus higher baseline HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T2D, inadequately controlled by metformin, incremental weight loss was observed with dulaglutide 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mg doses regardless of baseline BMI or HbA1c. Although absolute weight loss was numerically greater in patients with higher baseline BMI, percentage of weight loss was similar between BMI subgroups.

Efficacy and Safety of Dulaglutide in Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Endocrinology Clinics of Islamabad, Pakistan

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to ascertain the efficacy and safety of once weekly Dulaglutide among patients with Type 2 diabetes of Pakistani origin.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was conducted at the Endocrinology Clinics of Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad and Umar Diabetes and Foot Care Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan during the period from July 2020 to December 2020. Dulaglutide at the dose of 1.5 mg once weekly was initiated in patients with BMI >28 and suboptimal glucose control in the background of Type 2 Diabetes who were also taking one or more of oral anti-diabetic and/or insulin therapy.

RESULTS

Mean age of patient cohort (n = 148) was 49.51 years (SD +/- 12.15) with 53.5% (n = 85) having type 2 diabetes for a duration of over 10 years. Mean weight was 93.2 kg at baseline with end of study mean weight being 90.7 kg. Mean HbA1c at baseline was 9.2%, which improved to 8.05% at the end of study. The main side-effects were nausea in 32%, vomiting in 8%, and diarrhea in 7% with 19% discontinuation rate due to cost and side-effects.

CONCLUSION

Dulaglutide as a therapy demonstrated favorable HbA1c and weight reduction in obese type 2 diabetes patients of Pakistani origin.

GLP-1 in diabetes care: Can glycemic control be achieved without nausea and vomiting?

Introduced less than two decades ago, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) rapidly re-shaped the field of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) care by providing glycemic control in tandem with weight loss. However, FDA-approved GLP-1RAs are often accompanied by nausea and emesis, and in some lean T2DM patients, by undesired anorexia. Importantly, the hypophagic and emetic effects of GLP-1RAs are caused by central GLP-1R activation. This review summarizes two different approaches to mitigate the incidence/severity of nausea and emesis related to GLP-1RAs: conjugation with vitamin B12, or related corrin-ring containing compounds ("corrination"), and development of dual-agonists of the GLP-1R with glucose dependent-insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). Such approaches could lead to the generation of GLP-1RAs with improved therapeutic efficacy thus, decreasing treatment attrition, increasing patient compliance, and extending treatment to a broader population of T2DM patients. The data reviewed show that it is possible to pharmacologically separate emetic effects of GLP-1RAs from glucoregulatory action.

Anti-diabetic drugs and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is frequently a comorbidity of type 2 diabetes. Even modest weight loss can significantly improve glucose homeostasis and lessen cardiometabolic risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes, but lifestyle-based weight loss strategies are not long-term effective. There is an increasing need to consider pharmacological approaches to assist weight loss in the so called diabesity syndrome. Aim of this review is to analyze the weight-loss effect of non-insulin glucose lowering drugs in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic analysis of the literature on the effect of non-insulin glucose lowering drugs on weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes was performed. For each class of drugs, the following parameters were analyzed: kilograms lost on average, effect on body mass index and body composition.

RESULTS

Our results suggested that anti-diabetic drugs can be stratified into 3 groups based on their efficacy in weight loss: metformin, acarbose, empagliflozin and exenatide resulted in a in a mild weight loss (less than 3.2% of initial weight); canagliflozin, ertugliflozin, dapagliflozin and dulaglutide induces a moderate weight loss (between 3.2% and 5%); liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide resulted in a strong weight loss (greater than 5%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that new anti-diabetic drugs, particularly GLP1-RA and Tirzepatide, are the most effective in inducing weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, exenatide appears to be the only GLP1-RA that induces a mild weight loss.

Proglucagon-Derived Peptides as Therapeutics

Initially discovered as an impurity in insulin preparations, our understanding of the hyperglycaemic hormone glucagon has evolved markedly over subsequent decades. With description of the precursor proglucagon, we now appreciate that glucagon was just the first proglucagon-derived peptide (PGDP) to be characterised. Other bioactive members of the PGDP family include glucagon-like peptides -1 and -2 (GLP-1 and GLP-2), oxyntomodulin (OXM), glicentin and glicentin-related pancreatic peptide (GRPP), with these being produced via tissue-specific processing of proglucagon by the prohormone convertase (PC) enzymes, PC1/3 and PC2. PGDP peptides exert unique physiological effects that influence metabolism and energy regulation, which has witnessed several of them exploited in the form of long-acting, enzymatically resistant analogues for treatment of various pathologies. As such, intramuscular glucagon is well established in rescue of hypoglycaemia, while GLP-2 analogues are indicated in the management of short bowel syndrome. Furthermore, since approval of the first GLP-1 mimetic for the management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in 2005, GLP-1 therapeutics have become a mainstay of T2DM management due to multifaceted and sustainable improvements in glycaemia, appetite control and weight loss. More recently, longer-acting PGDP therapeutics have been developed, while newfound benefits on cardioprotection, bone health, renal and liver function and cognition have been uncovered. In the present article, we discuss the physiology of PGDP peptides and their therapeutic applications, with a focus on successful design of analogues including dual and triple PGDP receptor agonists currently in clinical development.

Effects of Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics of the Dual GIP and GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Tirzepatide

Background and Aims

The pharmacokinetics (PK) and single-dose tolerability of tirzepatide, a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist being developed for once-weekly treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D), weight management, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, was evaluated in subjects with renal impairment versus healthy subjects with normal renal function.

Methods

Forty-five subjects, categorized by baseline renal status, i.e. mild (n = 8, estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 60–89 mL/min/1.73m²), moderate (n = 8, eGFR 30–59 mL/min/1.73m²), severe renal impairment (n = 7, eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m²), end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis (n = 8), and normal renal function (n = 14, eGFR ≥ 90 mL/min/1.73m²), received a single subcutaneous dose of tirzepatide 5 mg. Tirzepatide plasma concentrations up to 648 h postdose were measured to compute PK parameters. The primary analysis evaluated the ratios of area under the plasma concentration–time curves (AUCs) and maximum plasma drug concentration (C_max) of renal impairment versus the normal renal function group (90% confidence interval [CI]). In addition, the relationship between PK parameters and continuous variables of renal function was assessed by linear regression.

Results

Tirzepatide exposure was similar across renal impairment groups and healthy subjects. The 90% CI of ratios of AUCs and C_max comparing each renal impairment group versus normal renal function spanned unity, except for a 25–29% increase in AUCs in the moderate renal impairment group. There was no significant relationship between tirzepatide exposure and eGFR. Few adverse events were reported across the renal impairment and normal renal function groups. The majority were mild in severity and of a gastrointestinal nature in the renal impairment groups.

Conclusion

There were no clinically relevant effects of renal impairment on tirzepatide PK. Dose adjustment may not be required for patients with renal impairment.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03482024.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40262-021-01012-2.

Efficacy and Safety of Dulaglutide 3.0 mg and 4.5 mg Versus Dulaglutide 1.5 mg in Metformin-Treated Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in a Randomized Controlled Trial (AWARD-11)

OBJECTIVE

To compare efficacy and safety of dulaglutide at doses of 3.0 and 4.5 mg versus 1.5 mg in patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with metformin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients were randomly assigned to once-weekly dulaglutide 1.5 mg, 3.0 mg, or 4.5 mg for 52 weeks. The primary objective was determining superiority of dulaglutide 3.0 mg and/or 4.5 mg over 1.5 mg in HbA_1c reduction at 36 weeks. Secondary superiority objectives included change in body weight. Two estimands addressed efficacy objectives: treatment regimen (regardless of treatment discontinuation or rescue medication) and efficacy (on treatment without rescue medication) in all randomly assigned patients.

RESULTS

Mean baseline HbA_1c and BMI in randomly assigned patients (N = 1,842) was 8.6% (70 mmol/mol) and 34.2 kg/m², respectively. At 36 weeks, dulaglutide 4.5 mg provided superior HbA_1c reductions compared with 1.5 mg (treatment-regimen estimand: -1.77 vs. -1.54% [-19.4 vs. -16.8 mmol/mol], estimated treatment difference [ETD] -0.24% (-2.6 mmol/mol), P < 0.001; efficacy estimand: -1.87 vs. -1.53% [-20.4 vs. -16.7 mmol/mol], ETD -0.34% (-3.7 mmol/mol), P < 0.001). Dulaglutide 3.0 mg was superior to 1.5 mg for reducing HbA_1c, using the efficacy estimand (ETD -0.17% [-1.9 mmol/mol]; P = 0.003) but not the treatment-regimen estimand (ETD -0.10% [-1.1 mmol/mol]; P = 0.096). Dulaglutide 4.5 mg was superior to 1.5 mg for weight loss at 36 weeks for both estimands (treatment regimen: -4.6 vs. -3.0 kg, ETD -1.6 kg, P < 0.001; efficacy: -4.7 vs. -3.1 kg, ETD -1.6 kg, P < 0.001). Common adverse events through 36 weeks included nausea (1.5 mg, 13.4%; 3 mg, 15.6%; 4.5 mg, 16.4%) and vomiting (1.5 mg, 5.6%; 3 mg, 8.3%; 4.5 mg, 9.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled by metformin, escalation from dulaglutide 1.5 mg to 3.0 mg or 4.5 mg provided clinically relevant, dose-related reductions in HbA_1c and body weight with a similar safety profile.

Advances in Subcutaneous Delivery Systems of Biomacromolecular Agents for Diabetes Treatment

Diabetes mellitus is a major threat to human health. Both its incidence and prevalence have been rising steadily over the past few decades. Biomacromolecular agents such as insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists are commonly used hypoglycemic drugs that play important roles in the treatment of diabetes. However, their traditional frequent administration may cause numerous side effects, such as pain, infection or local tissue necrosis. To address these issues, many novel subcutaneous delivery systems have been developed in recent years. In this review, we survey recent developments in subcutaneous delivery systems of biomacromolecular hypoglycemic drugs, including sustained-release delivery systems and stimuli-responsive delivery systems, and summarize the advantages and limitations of these systems. Future opportunities and challenges are discussed as well.

Efficacy and safety of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist (RA) oral semaglutide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials comparing oral semaglutide with placebo or other antihyperglycemic agents in T2DM patients were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov. Risk ratios and mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were used to synthesize the results.

RESULTS

Ten relevant studies involving 8,536 patients were finally included. Compared with placebo, oral semaglutide significantly reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), body weight, fasting plasma glucose, self-measured plasma glucose (SMPG), serious adverse events and all-cause death and significantly increased the number of participants who achieved HbA1c < 7.0%. Compared with active comparators, oral semaglutide significantly reduced the level of HbA1c, body weight, and SMPG and significantly increased the number of participants who achieved HbA1c < 7.0%. Compared with placebo or active comparators, oral semaglutide did not increase the incidence of adverse events, hypoglycemia (severe or blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic), myocardial infarction, heart failure requiring hospitalization, stroke or acute pancreatitis but did increase the incidence of nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral semaglutide has favorable efficacy and safety in the treatment of T2DM patients. Oral semaglutide may be superior to liraglutide, dulaglutide, empagliflozin and sitagliptin for T2DM patients who have obesity or poor adherence to injectable GLP-1 RAs.

Adherence and persistence among patients with type 2 diabetes initiating dulaglutide compared with semaglutide and exenatide BCise: 6-month follow-up from US real-world data

AIM

To compare 6-month adherence, persistence and treatment patterns among patients initiating once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), dulaglutide versus semaglutide, and dulaglutide versus exenatide BCise, using claims from the HealthCore Integrated Research Database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients aged ≥18 years, with type 2 diabetes, ≥1 claim for dulaglutide, semaglutide or exenatide BCise during the index period February 2018 to December 2018 (index date = earliest GLP-1RA fill date), no claim for GLP-1RAs in the 6-month pre-index period, and continuous enrolment 6 months pre- and post-index were included. Dulaglutide users were propensity-matched 1:1 to semaglutide users (3852 pairs) or exenatide BCise users (1879 pairs). The proportions of adherent (proportion of days covered ≥80%) patients were compared using chi-squared tests. Persistence, measured as days to discontinuation, was analysed using a Cox regression model.

RESULTS

Matched cohorts (dulaglutide:semaglutide and dulagutide:exenatide BCise) were balanced in baseline characteristics and the mean age was 54 and 55 years, respectively, with approximately 51% and 49% women, respectively. At 6 months, significantly more dulaglutide users were adherent than semaglutide (59.7% vs. 42.7%; P <0.0001) or exenatide BCise users (58.1% vs. 40.3%; P <0.0001). Cox regression showed that dulaglutide users were less likely to discontinue therapy than semaglutide (hazard ratio [HR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66, 0.76) or exenatide BCise users (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.53, 0.65; P <0.0001, both).

CONCLUSION

At 6-month follow-up, a higher proportion of patients initiating dulaglutide were adherent to and persistent with their treatment, compared to matched patients initiating either semaglutide or exenatide BCise.

Impact of patient characteristics on efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide versus dulaglutide: SUSTAIN 7 post hoc analyses

OBJECTIVE

In SUSTAIN 7, once-weekly semaglutide demonstrated superior glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and body weight (BW) reductions versus once-weekly dulaglutide in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This post hoc analysis investigated the impact of clinically relevant subject characteristics on treatment effects of semaglutide versus dulaglutide.

DESIGN

Analyses by baseline age (<65, ≥65 years), sex (male, female), diabetes duration (≤5, >5-10, >10 years), HbA1c (≤7.5, >7.5-8.5, >8.5% (≤58, >58-69, >69 mmol/mol)) and body mass index (BMI) (<30, 30-<35, ≥35 kg/m2).

SETTING

194 sites; 16 countries.

PARTICIPANTS

Subjects with T2D (n=1199) exposed to treatment.

INTERVENTIONS

Semaglutide 0.5 mg versus dulaglutide 0.75 mg (low-dose comparison); semaglutide 1.0 mg versus dulaglutide 1.5 mg (high-dose comparison), all subcutaneously once weekly.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in HbA1c (primary endpoint) and BW (confirmatory secondary endpoint) from baseline to week 40; proportion of subjects achieving HbA1c targets (<7%, ≤6.5% (<53, ≤48 mmol/mol)) and weight-loss responses (≥5%, ≥10%) at week 40; and safety.

RESULTS

HbA1c and BW reductions (estimated treatment difference ranges: -0.22 to -0.70%-point; -1.76 to -3.84 kg) and proportion of subjects achieving HbA1c targets and weight-loss responses were statistically significantly greater for the majority of comparisons of semaglutide versus dulaglutide within each subgroup category and, excepting glycaemic control within the low-dose comparison in HbA1c subgroups, this was irrespective of subgroup or dose comparison. Gastrointestinal adverse events, the most common with both treatments, were reported by more women than men and, with semaglutide, decreased with increasing BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistently greater improvements in HbA1c and BW with semaglutide versus dulaglutide, regardless of age, sex, diabetes duration, glycaemic control and BMI, support the efficacy of semaglutide across the continuum of care in a heterogeneous population with T2D.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02648204.

Superior weight loss with once-weekly semaglutide versus other glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists is independent of gastrointestinal adverse events

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events (AEs) are the most common AEs with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs). Weight loss (WL) is slightly greater in people who experience GI AEs than those who do not. A previous mediation analysis of the SUSTAIN 1-5 trials indicated minor contribution of nausea/vomiting to the greater WL with once-weekly semaglutide versus comparators. Semaglutide demonstrated superior glycated hemoglobin and body weight (BW) reductions versus other GLP-1RAs in SUSTAIN 3 (versus exenatide extended release 2.0 mg), SUSTAIN 7 (versus dulaglutide) and SUSTAIN 10 (liraglutide 1.2 mg). The objective of this analysis was to assess if significantly greater WL with semaglutide versus other GLP-1RAs is mediated by nausea/vomiting and other GI AEs (diarrhea, constipation, dyspepsia) during dose escalation (baseline to week 12, when GI AEs are generally most prevalent) and from baseline to end of treatment (EOT: week 56 (SUSTAIN 3), 40 (SUSTAIN 7) or 30 (SUSTAIN 10)).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Subjects within trials were subdivided into those who reported (yes/no) nausea/vomiting or any other GI AE. Change from baseline in BW was assessed within each trial and subgroup. A mediation analysis separated WL into direct or indirect (mediated by GI AEs) effects.

RESULTS

From baseline to week 12 or EOT, the nausea/vomiting-mediated difference in WL was, respectively: 0.05 or 0.09 kg of 3.78 kg at EOT (SUSTAIN 3); 0.06 or 0.03 kg of 2.26 kg at EOT (low-dose comparison) and 0.08 or 0.04 kg of 3.55 kg at EOT (high-dose comparison) (SUSTAIN 7) and 0.05 or 0.09 kg of 3.82 kg at EOT (SUSTAIN 10).

CONCLUSIONS

In SUSTAIN 3, 7 and 10, nausea/vomiting by week 12 (end of dose escalation) or throughout treatment contributed minimally (<0.1 kg) to the superior WL with semaglutide versus GLP-1RA comparators at EOT.

Cardiovascular outcomes trials with incretin-based medications: a critical review of data available on GLP-1 receptor agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors are so called "incretin-based therapies" (IBTs) that represent innovative therapeutic approaches and are commonly used in clinical practice for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) have provided useful information that has helped to shape changes in clinical practice guidelines for the management of T2DM. At the same time, the mechanisms that may explain the nonglycemic and cardiovascular (CV) benefits of these medications are still being explored. A summary of the main findings from CVOTs performed to-date with particular emphasis on various outcomes and inconsistencies observed in the trials is provided. Overall, available data is favourable to the early deployment of GLP-1RAs in clinical practice, fully in line with recommendations from international scientific guidelines, and based on their effects on glucose metabolism parameters, body weight reduction and CV outcomes. Evidence further suggest that the CV benefits of GLP-1RAs may not be a class effect, with GLP-1 analogues having a greater benefit rather than exendin-based agents.

A review of GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes: A focus on the mechanism of action of once-weekly agents

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are one of the preferred approved treatment options for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and inadequate glycaemic control. The objective of this review is to provide a general clinical overview of the similarities and differences in the mechanisms of action (MoA) of the once-weekly GLP-1 RA class of medications, highlighting the role of pharmacists in providing optimal medication management, education and care for people with diabetes.

METHODS

This is a narrative review of the published literature regarding the MoA of the currently available once-weekly GLP-1 RAs in T2D.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

GLP-1 RAs have an established efficacy and safety profile. Their benefits derive from their blood glucose-lowering effects, which include pancreatic beta-cell-mediated glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppressed glucagon release, and their ability to slow gastric emptying and promote satiety. GLP-1 RAs may also exert beneficial effects on multiple organ systems in which GLP-1 receptors are present, including the cardiovascular and renal systems. Differences between individual GLP-1 RAs with regard to their molecular size, structure and duration of action (short or longer acting) have led to differing pharmacodynamics and clinical effects such as degree of glycaemic control, weight loss abilities, cardiovascular effects and tolerability profiles.

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

From the literature, this appears to be the first review of the evidence base supporting the MoA of once-weekly GLP-1 RAs in T2D aimed at pharmacists, with a particular emphasis on the expanding role of pharmacists in team-based diabetes management. As a class, GLP-1 RAs are an effective treatment option for people with T2D, shown to achieve multi-factorial clinical benefits. The results suggest that when selecting or advising about treatments, pharmacists should consider how the different once-weekly GLP-1 RAs and their MoA affect clinical outcomes in order to ensure optimal treatment for individuals.

Effectiveness of Dulaglutide in the Real World and in Special Populations of Type 2 Diabetic Patients

CONTEXT

In randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients, the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist (GLP-RA) dulaglutide reduced HbA1c and body weight, but generalizability of such findings to real-world T2D patients is challenging.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated effectiveness of dulaglutide in routine clinical practice, especially in subgroups of patient that are underrepresented in RCTs.

DESIGN

Retrospective multicenter study.

SETTING

Diabetes outpatient clinics.

PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION

All consecutive patients who initiated dulaglutide between 2015 and 2018.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Changes in HbA1c and body weight were assessed up to 30 months after baseline. Effectiveness was analyzed in patient subgroups according to: prior use of GLP-1RA, persistence on treatment and dose, age, sex, disease duration, renal function, obesity, cardiovascular disease, or concomitant use of insulin or sulphonylurea.

RESULTS

From a background population of 83,116 patients, 2084 initiated dulaglutide (15.3% switching from another GLP-1RA), 1307 of whom had at least 1 follow-up visit. Overall, dulaglutide reduced HbA1c by 1.0% and body weight by 2.9 kg at the end of observation. These effects were more pronounced in GLP-1RA-naïve patients and in those with shorter disease duration. Improvement in HbA1c was highly significant and consistent across all subgroups, including those aged ≥ 75 years, nonobese, or with chronic kidney disease. Body weight declined in all subgroups and significantly more with the 1.5-mg versus 0.75-mg dose.

CONCLUSIONS

In real-world T2D patients, effectiveness of dulaglutide on HbA1c and body weight reduction was highly consistent and significant even in subgroups of patients poorly represented in RCTs.

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.

Economic Evaluation of Dulaglutide vs Traditional Therapies: Implications of the Outcomes of the Rewind Study

Background

Diabetes represents a relevant public health problem worldwide due to its growing prevalence and socioeconomic burden, principally due to the development of macrovascular and microvascular complications as well as to the continuous launch of new and even more expensive drugs. The aim of our study is to evaluate the economic impact of dulaglutide, a weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist, on the treatment of diabetic patients as an alternative to both high dose sulphonylureas and insulin basalization at the failure of oral therapies alone. We carried out a cost-effectiveness analysis developed considering the economic implications of recent clinical studies regarding cardiovascular risk drug effects and especially of REWIND studies outcomes, focusing on the impact of weight changes on HRQoL.

Material and Method

In our analysis, we have applied the cost-utility technique to the above reported clinical outcomes and compared the global costs of dulaglutide versus sulfonylurea or basal insulin, all in add-on with metformin. We have chosen gliclazide, as a sulfonylurea and Abasaglar^®, the less expensive among basal insulin analogues. Abasaglar was titrated to 20 IU, corresponding to the mean dosage used in the treatment of type II diabetic patients. The model aims to estimate total direct costs related to the above-reported treatments and find out the real gap in costs between dulaglutide, the apparently cheaper gliclazide and basal insulin glargine (IGlargine) based on the Italian National Healthcare System (INHS).

Results

The total cost of dulaglutide has resulted in €859.66 higher than gliclazide (€1,579.73 vs €720.07) and basal insulin, although less significantly, reporting a difference of €396.54 (€1,579.73 vs 1,183.19). Except for the purchase cost, dulaglutide has reported reduced costs compared to insulin IGlargine and gliclazide. Dulaglutide showed lower self-monitoring blood glucose and hypoglycaemia costs, a significant reduction in costs related to cardiovascular complications, as well as savings in costs in other drugs. Dulaglutide can be considered a cost-effective antidiabetic therapy, due to the positive impact on the quality of life induced by weight reduction, despite the higher annual cost per patient, mainly influenced by drug purchase cost.

Discussion and Conclusion

In this cost-utility analysis, dulaglutide has shown to be a cost-effective treatment option from the Italian healthcare system perspective as add-on therapy to metformin in patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus. Study findings can provide stakeholders valuable evidence to support the adoption of this cost-effective second- or third-line therapy compared to gliclazide or basal insulin glargine. Dulaglutide cost-effectiveness has been particularly evident in the comparison with basal insulin glargine, indicating that, in patients who have treatment indication, this therapy may be preferred to basalization avoiding related complications and costs.