The Association Between the Dosage of SGLT2 Inhibitor and Weight Reduction in Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Meta-Analysis

Empagliflozin rescues lifespan and liver senescence in naturally aged mice

Empagliflozin is currently known to decrease blood glucose levels, delay renal failure, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and all-cause mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes with cardiovascular disease. However, the effects of empagliflozin on the lifespan and health of naturally aged organisms are unclear. This study was designed to investigate the impacts and potential mechanisms of empagliflozin on lifespan and liver senescence in naturally aged mice. Our study revealed that empagliflozin improved survival and health in naturally aged mice. Empagliflozin extended the median survival of male mice by 5.9%. Meanwhile, empagliflozin improved learning memory and motor balance, decreased body weight, and downregulated the hepatic protein expression of P21, P16, α-SMA, and COL1A1. Empagliflozin modulates the structure of the intestinal flora, increasing the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Lactobacillus, Blautia, and Muribaculaceae and decreasing the relative abundance of Erysipelotrichaceae, Turicibacter, and Dubosiella in naturally aged mice. Further exploration discovered that empagliflozin increased the concentration of SCFAs, decreased the levels of the inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-6, and CXCL9, and regulated the PI3K/AKT/P21 and AMPK/SIRT1/NF-κB pathways, which may represent the underlying mechanisms involved in these beneficial hepatic effects. Taken together, the above results indicated that empagliflozin intervention could be considered a potential strategy for extending lifespan and slowing liver senescence in naturally aged mice.

Tirzepatide: unveiling a new dawn in dual-targeted diabetes and obesity management

INTRODUCTION

Incretin-based therapies have emerged as effective treatments for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. However, not all patients achieve optimal outcomes with existing treatments, highlighting the need for more effective solutions.

AREAS COVERED

We present a comprehensive evaluation of Tirzepatide (TZP), a novel dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 (GIP/GLP-1) receptor agonist, for managing obesity and T2D. We conducted a systematic search of Cochrane, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to April 2024. The focus of the review is on the development and therapeutic potential of TZP, with detailed exploration on pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and safety. Furthermore, it reviews TZP's impacts on glycemic control, weight management, and its potential cardiovascular (CV) benefits.

EXPERT OPINION

TZP represents a significant advancement in the dual-targeted approach to treating T2D and obesity. Its unique mechanism of action offers superior efficacy in reducing glycemic levels and body weight compared to existing therapies. New data suggesting improvements in CV outcomes indicate that TZP could set a new standard in the treatment paradigm. While long-term data on efficacy and safety are still forthcoming, current evidence positions TZP as a promising option for patients who have not reached their therapeutic goals with existing treatments.

Applications of SGLT2 inhibitors beyond glycaemic control

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors were initially developed for their glucose-lowering effects and have shown a modest glycaemic benefit in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In the past decade, a series of large, robust clinical trials of these therapies have demonstrated striking beneficial effects for various care goals, transforming the chronic disease therapeutic landscape. Cardiovascular safety studies in people with T2DM demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors reduce cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure. Subsequent trials in participants with heart failure with reduced or preserved left ventricular ejection fraction demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors have beneficial effects on heart failure outcomes. In dedicated kidney outcome studies, SGLT2 inhibitors reduced the incidence of kidney failure among participants with or without diabetes. Post hoc analyses have suggested a range of other benefits of these drugs in conditions as diverse as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, kidney stone prevention and anaemia. SGLT2 inhibitors have a generally favourable adverse effect profile, although patient selection and medication counselling remain important. Concerted efforts are needed to better integrate these agents into routine care and support long-term medication adherence to close the gap between clinical trial outcomes and those achieved in the real world.

The safety of sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors and trends in clinical and hemodynamic parameters in patients with left ventricular assist devices

BACKGROUND

The safety and impact of sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-I) in patients with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all consecutive patients who underwent LVAD Heart Mate 3 (HM3) implantation at a single medical center and received SGLT2-I therapy following surgery was conducted. LVAD parameters, medical therapy, laboratory tests, echocardiography, and right heart catheterization (RHC) study results were recorded and compared before and after initiation of SGLT2-I.

RESULTS

SGLT2-I medications were initiated in 29 (21%) of 138 patients following HM3 implantation (23 (79%) received Empagliflozin and 6 (21%) Dapagliflozin). The mean age at the time of LVAD implantation was 62 ± 6.7 years, 25 (86%) were male, and 23 (79%) had diabetes mellitus. The median time from HM3 implantation to SGLT2-I initiation was 108 days, IQR (26-477). Following SGLT2-I therapy, the daily dose of furosemide decreased from 47 to 23.5 mg/day (mean difference = 23.5 mg/d, 95% CI 8.2-38.7, p = 0.004) and significant weight reduction was observed (mean difference 2.5 kg, 95% CI 0.7-4.3, p = 0.008). Moreover, a significant 5.6 mm Hg reduction in systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) was measured during RHC (95% CI 0.23-11, p = 0.042) in a subgroup of 11 (38%) patients. LVAD parameters were similar before and after SGLT2-I initiation (p > 0.2 for all). No adverse events were recorded during median follow-up of 354 days, IQR (206-786).

CONCLUSION

SGLT2-I treatment is safe in LVAD patients and might contribute to reduction in patients sPAP.

Obesity and MASLD: Is weight loss the (only) key to treat metabolic liver disease?

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) closely associates with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle intervention and bariatric surgery aiming at substantial weight loss are cornerstones of MASLD treatment by improving histological outcomes and reducing risks of comorbidities. Originally developed as antihyperglycemic drugs, incretin (co-)agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors also reduce steatosis and cardiorenovascular events. Certain incretin agonists effectively improve histological features of MASLD, but not fibrosis. Of note, beneficial effects on MASLD may not necessarily require weight loss. Despite moderate weight gain, one PPARγ agonist improved adipose tissue and MASLD with certain benefit on fibrosis in post-hoc analyses. Likewise, the first THRβ-agonist was recently provisionally approved because of significant improvements of MASLD and fibrosis. We here discuss liver-related and metabolic effects induced by different MASLD treatments and their association with weight loss. Therefore, we compare results from clinical trials on drugs acting via weight loss (incretin (co)agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors) with those exerting no weight loss (pioglitazone; resmetirom). Furthermore, other drugs in development directly targeting hepatic lipid metabolism (lipogenesis inhibitors, FGF21 analogs) are addressed. Although THRβ-agonism may effectively improve hepatic outcomes, MASLD treatment concepts should consider all cardiometabolic risk factors for effective reduction of morbidity and mortality in the affected people.

Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Transcription Regulation of AgRP and POMC Genes

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors regulate plasma glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by inhibiting renal glucose reabsorption. This study investigated the impact of empagliflozin (EMPA), an SGLT2 inhibitor, on hypothalamic energy regulation. To directly investigate the role of SGLT2 inhibitors in the hypothalamus, we administered EMPA through intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections into the murine ventricles. After dental cementing the i.c.v. cannula onto the skull, the mice were given 5 days to recover before receiving vehicle or EMPA (50 nM/2 μL) injections. In a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity model, we determined the gene expression levels of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in the hypothalamus. Additionally, we assessed FoxO1 expression, which regulates AgRP and POMC gene transcription in hypothalamic cell lines. We found that EMPA directly influenced the expression of endogenous mRNA of POMC and AgRP, which are critical for energy homeostasis, and modulated their transcription in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. Additionally, EMPA affected the expression of FoxO1, a key transcriptional regulator of glucose homeostasis, thereby regulating the transcriptional activity of POMC and AgRP. These results indicate that EMPA significantly influences hypothalamic energy homeostasis, highlighting its potential as a regulator in obesity and T2DM management.

Adjunctive therapy with an oral H2S donor provides additional therapeutic benefit beyond SGLT2 inhibition in cardiometabolic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have emerged as a potent therapy for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Hydrogen sulphide (H2S), a well-studied cardioprotective agent, could be beneficial in HFpEF. SGLT2i monotherapy and combination therapy involving an SGLT2i and H2S donor in two preclinical models of cardiometabolic HFpEF was investigated.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Nine-week-old C57BL/6N mice received L-NAME and a 60% high fat diet for five weeks. Mice were then randomized to either control, SGLT2i monotherapy or SGLT2i and H2S donor, SG1002, for five additional weeks. Ten-week-old ZSF1 obese rats were randomized to control, SGLT2i or SGLT2i and SG1002 for 8 weeks. SG1002 monotherapy was investigated in additional animals. Cardiac function (echocardiography and haemodynamics), exercise capacity, glucose handling and multiorgan pathology were monitored during experimental protocols.

KEY RESULTS

SGLT2i treatment improved E/e' ratio and treadmill exercise in both models. Combination therapy afforded increases in cardiovascular sulphur bioavailability that coincided with improved left end-diastolic function (E/e' ratio), exercise capacity, metabolic state, cardiorenal fibrosis, and hepatic steatosis. Follow-up studies with SG1002 monotherapy revealed improvements in diastolic function, exercise capacity and multiorgan histopathology.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

SGLT2i monotherapy remediated pathological complications exhibited by two well-established HFpEF models. Adjunctive H2S therapy resulted in further improvements of cardiometabolic perturbations beyond SGLT2i monotherapy. Follow-up SG1002 monotherapy studies inferred an improved phenotype with combination therapy beyond either monotherapy. These data demonstrate the differing effects of SGLT2i and H2S therapy while also revealing the superior efficacy of the combination therapy in cardiometabolic HFpEF.

The Renoprotective Mechanisms of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT2i)-A Narrative Review

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a noncommunicable condition that has become a major healthcare burden across the globe, often underdiagnosed and associated with low awareness. The main cause that leads to the development of renal impairment is diabetes mellitus and, in contrast to other chronic complications such as retinopathy or neuropathy, it has been suggested that intensive glycemic control is not sufficient in preventing the development of diabetic kidney disease. Nevertheless, a novel class of antidiabetic agents, the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), have shown multiple renoprotective properties that range from metabolic and hemodynamic to direct renal effects, with a major impact on reducing the risk of occurrence and progression of CKD. Thus, this review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding the renoprotective mechanisms of SGLT2i and to offer a new perspective on this innovative class of antihyperglycemic drugs with proven pleiotropic beneficial effects that, after decades of no significant progress in the prevention and in delaying the decline of renal function, start a new era in the management of patients with CKD.

A 52-week efficacy and safety study of enavogliflozin versus dapagliflozin as an add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: ENHANCE-M extension study

AIM

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day added to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After 24 weeks of a randomized, double-blind treatment period with enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day (n = 101) or dapagliflozin 10 mg/day (n = 99) added to metformin, all patients received enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day plus metformin for an additional 28 weeks during the open-label extension period.

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients continued enavogliflozin (maintenance group), and 77 were switched from dapagliflozin to enavogliflozin (switch group). All adverse drug reactions (ADR) were mild in severity. In the maintenance group, ADRs (cystitis and vaginal infection) were reported in two patients (2.44%) during 52 weeks. In the switch group, ADR (hypoglycaemia) was reported in one patient (1.30%) during a 28-week open-label extension period. At week 52, glycated haemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose were significantly lower than at the baseline, by 0.85% and 29.08 mg/dl, respectively, in the maintenance group (p < .0001 for both), and by 0.81% and 32.77 mg/dl, respectively, in the switch group (p < .0001 for both). At week 52, 68.92% of patients from the maintenance group and 64.29% from the switch group achieved glycated haemoglobin <7%. A significant increase in the urine glucose-creatinine ratio was observed at week 52, by 58.81 g/g and 63.77 g/g in the maintenance and switch groups, respectively (p < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Enavogliflozin added to metformin was tolerated well for up to 52 weeks and provided continual glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus, along with a significant increase in the urine glucose-creatinine ratio.

Role of lifestyle and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss in obesity, type 2 diabetes and steatotic liver diseases

BACKGROUND

The current obesity pandemic has given rise to associated comorbidities and complications, including type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). During the last decade, certain glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), originally developed as antihyperglycemic drugs, also demonstrated efficacy for weight loss.

AIMS

To review shared pathophysiologic features of common metabolic diseases and compare therapeutic strategies to reduce body weight and related complications.

METHODS

We performed an extensive literature research to describe the effects of lifestyle modification, first-generation anti-obesity drugs, and GLP-1RA on weight loss in humans with obesity, type 2 diabetes and MASLD.

RESULTS

Until recently, treatment of obesity has been limited to lifestyle modification, which offer moderate degree and sustainability of weight loss. The few approved first-generation anti-obesity drugs are either limited to short term use or to certain forms of obesity. Some GLP-1RA significantly decrease caloric intake and body weight. Liraglutide and semaglutide have therefore been approved for treating people with obesity. They also lead to a reduction of hepatic fat content and inflammation in people with biopsy-confirmed MASLD. Possible limitations comprise adverse effects, treatment adherence and persistence.

CONCLUSION

Certain GLP-1RA are superior to lifestyle modification and first-generation anti-obesity drugs in inducing weight loss. They have therefore markedly changed the portfolio of obesity treatment with additional beneficial effects on steatotic liver disease.

Research advances in the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT inhibitors in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most significant global burden diseases. It is well established that a chronic, systemic, low-grade inflammatory condition is strongly correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and the development of target-organ damage (TOD). Sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLTis), novel oral drugs for the treatment of diabetes, act mainly by reducing glucose reabsorption in proximal renal tubules and/or the intestine. Several high-quality clinical trials and large observational studies have revealed that SGLTis significantly improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes in T2D patients. Increasing evidence suggests that this is closely related to their anti-inflammatory properties, which are mainly manifested by a reduction in plasma concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers. This review analyses the potential mechanisms behind the anti-inflammatory effects of SGLTis in diabetes and presents recent evidence of their therapeutic efficacy in treating diabetes and related TOD.

Broader Perspective on Atherosclerosis-Selected Risk Factors, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Approach

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) stands as the leading cause of mortality worldwide. At its core lies a progressive process of atherosclerosis, influenced by multiple factors. Among them, lifestyle-related factors are highlighted, with inadequate diet being one of the foremost, alongside factors such as cigarette smoking, low physical activity, and sleep deprivation. Another substantial group of risk factors comprises comorbidities. Amongst others, conditions such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), or familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are included here. Extremely significant in the context of halting progression is counteracting the mentioned risk factors, including through treatment of the underlying disease. What is more, in recent years, there has been increasing attention paid to perceiving atherosclerosis as an inflammation-related disease. Consequently, efforts are directed towards exploring new anti-inflammatory medications to limit ASCVD progression. Simultaneously, research is underway to identify biomarkers capable of providing insights into the ongoing process of atherosclerotic plaque formation. The aim of this study is to provide a broader perspective on ASCVD, particularly focusing on its characteristics, traditional and novel treatment methods, and biomarkers that can facilitate its early detection.

Efficacy of empagliflozin in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction according to frailty status in EMPEROR-Preserved

BACKGROUND

Frailty is a severe, common co-morbidity associated with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The impact of frailty on HFpEF outcomes may affect treatment choices in HFpEF. The impact of frailty on HFpEF patients and any impact on the clinical benefits of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition in HFpEF have been described in only a limited number of trials. Whether the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin would improve or worsen frailty status when given to HFpEF patients is also not known. The aims of this study were, therefore, to evaluate, in HFpEF patients enrolled in the EMPEROR-Preserved trial (Empagliflozin Outcome Trial in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction), the impact of frailty on clinical outcomes, and on the effects of empagliflozin, as well as the effect of empagliflozin on frailty status during treatment period.

METHODS

We calculated a cumulative deficit-derived frailty index (FI) using 44 variables including clinical, laboratory and quality of life parameters recorded in EMPEROR-Preserved. Patients were classified into four groups: non-frail (FI < 0.21), mild frailty (0.21 to <0.30), moderate frailty (0.30 to <0.40) and severe frailty (≥0.40). Clinical outcomes and health-related quality of life were evaluated according to baseline FI along with the effect of empagliflozin on chronological changes in FI (at 12, 32 and 52 weeks).

RESULTS

The patient distribution was 1514 (25.3%), 2100 (35.1%), 1501 (25.1%) and 873 (14.6%) in non-frail, mild frailty, moderate frailty and severe frailty, respectively. Severe frailty patients tended to be female and have low Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) scores, more co-morbidities and more polypharmacy. Incidence rates of the primary outcome of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization increased as frailty worsened (hazard ratio [HR] of each FI category compared with the non-frail group: 1.10 [95% confidence interval, CI, 0.89-1.35], 2.00 [1.63-2.47] and 2.61 [2.08-3.27] in the mild frailty, moderate frailty and severe frailty groups, respectively; P trend < 0.001). Compared with placebo, empagliflozin reduced the risk for the primary outcome across the four FI categories, HR: 0.59 [95% CI 0.42-0.83], 0.79 [0.61-1.01], 0.77 [0.61-0.96] and 0.90 [0.69-1.16] in non-frail to severe frailty categories, respectively (P value for trend = 0.097). Empagliflozin also improved other clinical outcomes and KCCQ score across frailty categories. Compared with placebo, empagliflozin-treated patients had a higher likelihood of being in a lower FI category at Weeks 12, 32 and 52 (P < 0.05), odds ratio: 1.12 [95% CI 1.01-1.24] at Week 12, 1.21 [1.09-1.34] at Week 32 and 1.20 [1.09-1.33] at Week 52.

CONCLUSIONS

Empagliflozin improved key efficacy outcomes with a possible diminution of effect in very frail patients. Empagliflozin also improved frailty status during follow-up.

An Update on the Effect Of Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the main causes of liver disease, specifically chronic liver disease. Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with the risk of NAFLD given that patients usually have insulin resistance as one of the observed complications with NAFLD. Hypoglycemic agents, including sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2), have shown to improve NAFLD. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors on NAFLD patients' outcomes, whether they have T2DM or not. We conducted a comprehensive search using the PubMed and Ovid databases to identify published studies that addressed the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in NAFLD patients. The outcomes assessed include changes in liver enzymes, lipid profiles, weight changes, the fibrosis-4-index (FIB4), and magnetic resonance imaging proton density-based fat fraction (MRI-PDFF). Only clinical trials that met the quality measures were included in this review. Out of 382 potential studies, we included 16 clinical trials that discussed the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in NAFLD patients. A total of 753 patients were enrolled in these trials. The majority of the trials reported positive effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on liver enzymes; alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyl transferase. All 10 trials that reported changes in body mass index (BMI) from baseline showed a statistically significant reduction with SGLT-2 inhibitor use, while 11 studies reported a significant increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, 3 studies reported a reduction in triglycerides (TG) levels, and 2 studies showed a decrease in low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. The available evidence shows that the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in NAFLD is associated with positive outcomes on liver enzymes, lipid profiles, and BMI. Further studies with larger sample size and longer follow-up time are warranted.

No evidence of compensatory changes in energy balance, despite reductions in body weight and liver fat, during dapagliflozin treatment in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial (ENERGIZE)

AIM

This study assessed the impact of dapagliflozin on food intake, eating behaviour, energy expenditure, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-determined brain response to food cues and body composition in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were given dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with short-term (1 week) and long-term (12 weeks) cross-over periods. The primary outcome was the difference in test meal food intake between long-term dapagliflozin and placebo treatment. Secondary outcomes included short-term differences in test meal food intake, short- and long-term differences in appetite and eating rate, energy expenditure and functional MRI brain activity in relation to food images. We determined differences in glycated haemoglobin, weight, liver fat (by 1 H magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and subcutaneous/visceral adipose tissue volumes (by MRI).

RESULTS

In total, 52 patients (43% were women) were randomized; with the analysis of 49 patients: median age 58 years, weight 99.1 kg, body mass index 35 kg/m2 , glycated haemoglobin 49 mmol/mol. Dapagliflozin reduced glycated haemoglobin by 9.7 mmol/mol [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.91-16.27, p = .004], and body weight (-2.84 vs. -0.87 kg) versus placebo. There was no short- or long-term difference in test meal food intake between dapagliflozin and placebo [mean difference 5.7 g (95% CI -127.9 to 139.3, p = .933); 15.8 g (95% CI -147.7 to 116.1, p = .813), respectively] nor in the rate of eating, energy expenditure, appetite, or brain responses to food cues. Liver fat (median reduction -4.7 vs. 1.95%), but not subcutaneous/visceral adipose tissue, decreased significantly with 12 weeks of dapagliflozin.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduction in body weight and liver fat with dapagliflozin was not associated with compensatory adaptations in food intake or energy expenditure.

The Ketogenic Effect of SGLT-2 Inhibitors-Beneficial or Harmful?

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, also called gliflozins or flozins, are a class of drugs that have been increasingly used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) due to their glucose-lowering, cardiovascular (CV), and renal positive effects. However, recent studies suggest that SGLT-2 inhibitors might also have a ketogenic effect, increasing ketone body production. While this can be beneficial for some patients, it may also result in several potential unfavorable effects, such as decreased bone mineral density, infections, and ketoacidosis, among others. Due to the intricate and multifaceted impact caused by SGLT-2 inhibitors, this initially anti-diabetic class of medications has been effectively used to treat both patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those with heart failure (HF). Additionally, their therapeutic potential appears to extend beyond the currently investigated conditions. The objective of this review article is to present a thorough summary of the latest research on the mechanism of action of SGLT-2 inhibitors, their ketogenesis, and their potential synergy with the ketogenic diet for managing diabetes. The article particularly discusses the benefits and risks of combining SGLT-2 inhibitors with the ketogenic diet and their clinical applications and compares them with other anti-diabetic agents in terms of ketogenic effects. It also explores future directions regarding the ketogenic effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors.

Emerging Medical Therapies for the Treatment of Obesity in Women with Cardiovascular Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In this review, the impact of obesity on cardiovascular disease in women and emerging anti-obesity pharmacologic treatments are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Robust evidence demonstrates the burden of obesity across the lifespan in women and links obesity to a diverse set of cardiovascular diseases. Female-specific risk factors including sex hormones and pregnancy factors intersect with obesity and cardiovascular risk. Sustained weight loss has potential for cardiovascular benefits. Recent trials demonstrate cardiovascular benefits of emerging agents with weight loss effects including GLP-1 RA and SGLT2 inhibitors in women. Treatment and prevention strategies for cardiovascular disease in obese women should include integration of weight management strategies including the targeted use of emerging pharmacologic therapies.

Efficacy and Safety of Enavogliflozin versus Dapagliflozin as Add-on to Metformin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A 24-Week, Double-Blind, Randomized Trial

BACKGRUOUND

Enavogliflozin is a novel sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor currently under clinical development. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of enavogliflozin as an add-on to metformin in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) against dapagliflozin.

METHODS

In this multicenter, double-blind, randomized, phase 3 study, 200 patients were randomized to receive enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day (n=101) or dapagliflozin 10 mg/day (n=99) in addition to ongoing metformin therapy for 24 weeks. The primary objective of the study was to prove the non-inferiority of enavogliflozin to dapagliflozin in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) change at week 24 (non-inferiority margin of 0.35%) (Clinical trial registration number: NCT04634500).

RESULTS

Adjusted mean change of HbA1c at week 24 was -0.80% with enavogliflozin and -0.75% with dapagliflozin (difference, -0.04%; 95% confidence interval, -0.21% to 0.12%). Percentages of patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% were 61% and 62%, respectively. Adjusted mean change of fasting plasma glucose at week 24 was -32.53 and -29.14 mg/dL. An increase in urine glucose-creatinine ratio (60.48 vs. 44.94, P<0.0001) and decrease in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (-1.85 vs. -1.31, P=0.0041) were significantly greater with enavogliflozin than dapagliflozin at week 24. Beneficial effects of enavogliflozin on body weight (-3.77 kg vs. -3.58 kg) and blood pressure (systolic/diastolic, -5.93/-5.41 mm Hg vs. -6.57/-4.26 mm Hg) were comparable with those of dapagliflozin, and both drugs were safe and well-tolerated.

CONCLUSION

Enavogliflozin added to metformin significantly improved glycemic control in patients with T2DM and was non-inferior to dapagliflozin 10 mg, suggesting enavogliflozin as a viable treatment option for patients with inadequate glycemic control on metformin alone.

Comparative cardiovascular outcomes of novel drugs as an addition to conventional triple therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF): a network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Currently, there is no head-to-head comparison of novel pharmacological treatments for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). A network meta-analysis aimed to compare effects of both conventional and alternative drug combinations on time to develop primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalisation (PCO).

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from Medline, Scopus up to June 2021. The RCTs were included if comparing any single or combination of drugs, that is, ACE inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers (BB), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA), ivabradine (IVA), angiotensin receptor blocker/neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), soluble guanylyl cyclase and omecamtiv mecarbil and reporting PCO. Data were extracted from Kaplan-Meier curves, individual patient data were generated. A mixed-effect Weibull regression was applied. Median time to PCO, HRs with 95% CI were estimated accordingly. Our findings suggested that ACEI+BB+MRA+SGLT2i, BB+MRA+ARNI, and ACEI+BB+MRA+IVA had lower probability of PCOs than the conventional triple therapy (ACEI+BB+MRA).

RESULTS

Median time to PCOs of ACEI+BB+MRA was 57.7 months whereas median times to those new combinations were longer than 57.7 months. In addition, the three new regimens had a significantly lower PCO risks than ACEI+BB+MRA, with the HRs (95% CI) of 0.51 (0.43 to 0.61), 0.55 (0.46 to 0.65) and 0.56 (0.47 to 0.67), accordingly.

CONCLUSION

This study suggested that SGLT2i, ARNI and IVA in addition to ACEI+BB+MRA may be better in prolonging time to develop PCO in HFrEF patients.

The role of SGLT2i in attenuating residual cardiovascular risk through blood pressure-lowering: mechanistic insights and perspectives

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2) have been increasingly pursued as a promising target for addressing residual cardiovascular risk. Prior trials demonstrated that SGLT2i not only promotes glucose-lowering, but also improves endothelial dysfunction, adiposity, fluid overload, and insulin sensitivity thus contributing to hemodynamic changes implicated in its cardiorenal benefits. The mechanisms in the effect of SGLT2i on blood pressure and their potential role in preventing cardiovascular events are hereby revised.

SGLT2 inhibitors improve plasma atherogenic biomarkers in patients with type 2 diabetes: a real-world retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

There are cost-effective, non-invasive, and predictive tools used to predict the CVD risk in patients with diabetes such as the "atherogenic index of plasma (AIP)" which is defined as the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of fasting plasma TG (mg/dL) to HDL-C [log (TG/HDL-C)], triglyceride to high density lipoprotein (TG-to-HDL-C) ratio and the triglyceride glucose (TyG) index which is calculated as Ln (fasting TG [mg/dL] × fasting blood glucose (mg/dL)/2). These tools are indirect markers of atherosclerosis. Dapagliflozin and empagliflozin have exhibited cardiovascular beneficial effects and this study evaluated the effects of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on AIP, TyG index and TG-to-HDL-C ratio in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

This single center, retrospective, observational study involved patients with type 2 diabetic patients who were prescribed SGLT2i in the endocrinology outpatient clinic between January 2017 and June 2019. Demographic and clinical data were collected from patient files. AIP, TyG index and TG-to-HDL-C ratio were calculated obtained at the first visit and the sixth month visit.

RESULTS

Overall, 143 patients with T2DM (75 women, 68 men) were recruited in this study. Sixty-six patients were prescribed dapagliflozin (46.2%), and 77 were prescribed empagliflozin (53.8%). SGLT2i treatment did not alter the lipid profile except the serum triglyceride (TG) levels. Serum TG levels were significantly reduced after 6 months of SGLT2i therapy (P=0.045). All patients had significant reductions in AIP at 6-month follow-up (P<0.001), accompanied by a significant reduction in TyG index (P<0.001). Both empagliflozin and dapagliflozin caused significant decrease in AIP (P=0.043 and P<0.001, respectively) and TyG index (P=0.010 and P<0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Both dapagliflozin and empagliflozin were noted to significantly affect AIP and TyG indexes, which indicate atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk, with or without statin treatment regardless of lipid parameters.

Efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin in Caucasian patients with type 2 diabetes: results from a phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial

INTRODUCTION

Most data demonstrating the efficacy and safety of luseogliflozin (luseo) in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) originate from the Japanese population. This study evaluated luseo versus placebo (PCB) as add-on to metformin in a Caucasian population with inadequately controlled T2DM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, PCB-controlled, parallel-group study. Patients aged 18-75 years with inadequately controlled T2DM (glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥7% to ≤10% (≥53 to ≤86 mmol/mol)) despite a diet and exercise program and on a stable metformin regimen were eligible. Patients were randomized to one of three luseo groups (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg) or PCB for 12 weeks (W12). The primary endpoint was change in HbA1c expressed as least-square means from baseline (W0) to W12.

RESULTS

A total of 328 patients were randomized: PCB (n=83) and luseo 2.5 mg (n=80), 5.0 mg (n=86), and 10.0 mg (n=79). Mean age (±SD) was 58.5±8.8 years; 64.6% were women; body mass index was 31.5±3.4 kg/m2; and HbA1c was 8.54±0.70. At W12, mean reductions in HbA1c from W0 were -0.98%, -1.09%, -1.18%, and -0.73% in the luseo 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg, and PCB groups, respectively, all of which were statistically significant. Compared with PCB, HbA1c levels were significantly decreased by 0.25% (p=0.045), 0.36% (p=0.006), and 0.45% (p=0.001) in the luseo 2.5, 5.0, and 10.0 mg groups, respectively. In all luseo dose groups, reductions in body weight were statistically significant compared with PCB. Data from the safety analysis were consistent with the known luseo safety profile.

CONCLUSIONS

All doses of luseo as add-on to metformin in Caucasian patients with uncontrolled T2DM demonstrated significant efficacy in decreasing HbA1c after W12 of treatment.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN39549850.

Fat Mass is Associated with Subclinical Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Without Established Cardiovascular Diseases

INTRODUCTION

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) is considered to be the first marker of diabetes mellitus-related subclinical cardiac dysfunction, but whether it is attributable to fat mass and distribution remains uncertain. In this study, we explored whether fat mass, especially fat mass in the android area, is associated with subclinical systolic dysfunction before the onset of cardiac disease.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center prospective cross-sectional study between November 2021 and August 2022 on inpatients of the Department of Endocrinology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. We included 150 patients aged 18-70 years with no signs, symptoms, or history of clinical cardiac disease. Patients were evaluated with speckle tracking echocardiography and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. The cutoff values for subclinical systolic dysfunction were set at a global longitudinal strain (GLS) < 18%.

RESULTS

After adjusting for sex and age, patients with GLS < 18% had a higher mean (± standard deviation) fat mass index (8.06 ± 2.39 vs. 7.10 ± 2.09 kg/m², p = 0.02), higher mean trunk fat mass (14.9 ± 4.9 vs. 12.8 ± 4.3 kg, p = 0.01), and higher android fat mass (2.57 ± 1.02 vs. 2.18 ± 0.86 kg, p = 0.02) than those in the GLS ≥ 18%. Partial correlation analysis showed that the fat mass index, truck fat mass, and android fat mass were negatively correlated with GLS after adjusting for sex and age (all p < 0.05). Adjusted for traditional cardiovascular metabolic factors, fat mass index (odds ratio [OR] 1.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.55, p = 0.02), trunk fat mass (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.03-1.24, p = 0.01), and android fat mass (OR 1.77, 95% CI 1.16-2.82, p = 0.01) were independent risk factors for GLS < 18%.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without established clinical cardiac disease, fat mass, especially android fat mass, was associated with subclinical systolic dysfunction independently of age and sex.

Benefit or Risk in Patient with Type 1 Diabetes Based on Appropriated Dosage of Dapagliflozin: A Case Report

Purpose: Dapagliflozin has been used extensively in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, due to the potential diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) risk of dapagliflozin, its use in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is limited. Here, we reported an obese patient with T1DM and inadequate glycemic control. We carefully recommended she use dapagliflozin as an insulin adjuvant to achieve better glycemia control and to assess possible benefits and risks. Methods and Results: The patient was a 27-year-old female who had underlying T1DM for 17 years with a body weight of 75.0 kg, body mass index (BMI) of 28.2 kg/m², and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.7% when admitted. To treat her diabetes, she had used an insulin pump for 15 years (the recent dosage of insulin was 45 IU/d) and oral metformin for 3 years (0.5 g qid). In order to decrease body weight and achieve better glycemic control, dapagliflozin (FORXIGA, AstraZeneca, Indiana) was administered as an insulin adjuvant. The patient presented sever DKA with a euglycemia (euDKA) after two days of the administration of dapagliflozin at a dose of 10 mg/d. euDKA occurred again after the administration of dapagliflozin at a dose of 3.3 mg/d. However, after using a smaller dose of dapagliflozin (1.5 mg/d), this patient achieved better glycemia control, with a significant reduction in daily insulin dosage and gradual weight loss, without significant hypoglycemia or DKA occurring. At the sixth month of the administration of dapagliflozin, the HbA1c was 6.2% for the patient, her daily insulin dosage was 22.5 IU, and her body weight was 60.2 kg. Conclusions: The appropriate dose of dapagliflozin is critical for a patient with T1DM patient therapy in order to find a correct balance between the benefits and risks.

The Neuronal and Non-Neuronal Pathways of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor on Body Weight-Loss and Insulin Resistance

With the emergence of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has achieved a new milestone, of which the insulin-independent mechanism could produce weight loss, improve insulin resistance (IR) and exert other protective effects. Besides the well-acknowledged biochemical processes, the dysregulated balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic activity may play a significant role in IR and obesity. Weight loss caused by SGLT-2i could be achieved via activating the liver-brain-adipose neural axis in adipocytes. We previously demonstrated that SGLT-2 are widely expressed in central nervous system (CNS) tissues, and SGLT-2i could inhibit central areas associated with autonomic control through unidentified pathways, indicating that the role of the central sympathetic inhibition of SGLT-2i on blood pressure and weight loss. However, the exact pathway of SGLT2i related to these effects and to what extent it depends on the neural system are not fully understood. The evidence of how SGLT-2i interacts with the nervous system is worth exploring. Therefore, in this review, we will illustrate the potential neurological processes by which SGLT2i improves IR in skeletal muscle, liver, adipose tissue, and other insulin-target organs via the CNS and sympathetic nervous system/parasympathetic nervous system (SNS/PNS).

Weight change and clinical outcomes in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: insights from EMPEROR-Reduced

AIMS

Baseline body mass index (BMI) and weight loss promoted by sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors may impact outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). We assessed in the EMPEROR-Reduced population treated with empagliflozin versus placebo the relationship between baseline BMI, weight loss and effects on the primary (time to first hospitalization for heart failure [HHF] or cardiovascular death) and key secondary outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We categorized patients according to their baseline BMI: <20 kg/m2 (n = 180); 20 to <25 kg/m2 (n = 1038); 25 to <30 kg/m2 (n = 1345); 30 to <35 kg/m2 (n = 774) and ≥35 kg/m2 (n = 393). The treatment effect of empagliflozin on the primary outcome was consistent across all BMI categories (hazard ratios in subgroups 0.66-0.88, interaction trend p = 0.32), as was the effect on total (first plus recurrent) HHF (interaction trend p = 0.31). Empagliflozin reduced the rate of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline consistently across the BMI categories (interaction trend p = 0.67). Overall, incidence rates of any or serious adverse events were comparable between the treatment groups across all BMI categories. A total of 313 (17.4%) patients treated with empagliflozin experienced a weight loss of more than 5% at week 52 versus 230 (12.8%) in placebo. When analysed separately within each treatment group, presence of weight loss was similarly associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSION

The benefits of empagliflozin versus placebo were consistently present across all BMI categories in HFrEF patients. Weight loss was associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality, regardless of treatment group.

Pleiotropic effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on blood pressure

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been incorporated as guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Recent trials clearly established the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiac remodeling while preventing renal function decline in patients with or without diabetes mellitus. Blood pressure reduction during SGLT2 inhibitors use has been proposed through pleiotropic pathways and as a potential contributor that translates to cardiovascular benefits. The mechanisms underlying this decrease in blood pressure are not simply glycemic control. Orchestrating fluid status, modulation of sodium content and renin-angiotensin-activation system, anti-fibrosis and anti-inflammatory effect, ameliorating the characteristics of metabolic syndrome, as well as restoration of circadian rhythm all contributed to the BP lowering effect by SGLT2 inhibitors. Although SGLT2 inhibitors has not been demonstrated as anti-hypertensive agents thus far, their effects on BP alteration are clinically significant. In this review, we revisited the evidence correlating SGLT2 inhibitor use with blood pressure level. Future research directions will focus on the signaling pathway of SGLT2 inhibitors for fluid removal, atherosclerosis, vasoconstriction, and eventually hypertension.

Weight-centric treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

Chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCD) represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most prevalent CNCD that is associated with a significant medical and economic burden. One of the main modifiable risk factors of T2DM is obesity. Many medications used for T2DM can lead to weight gain, worsening one of the root causes of this disease.

Methods

In this clinical review, we study the effect of medications for T2DM on body weight. We used MEDLINE, Google scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases to search for relevant studies between 1 January 1950 to 20 September 2022 in English language. Here, we review the most prescribed medications for T2DM and summarize their effect on patients' body weight. We will also present an expert opinion on a recommended weight-centric approach to treat T2DM.

Results

Multiple T2DM medications have been associated with weight gain. Insulin, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones and meglitinides may increase body weight. However, biguanides (e.g., metformin), glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (e.g., semaglutide, liraglutide, tirzepatide), sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and amylin analogs (e.g., pramlintide) are associated with significant weight loss. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors are considered weight neutral medications. Experts in the fields of endocrinology and obesity recommend utilizing a weight-centric approach when treating T2DM.

Conclusion

Considering the high prevalence and debilitating complication of T2DM, it is of utmost importance to shift from a weight gain approach (i.e., insulin, sulfonylureas) into a weight loss/neutral one (i.e., GLP-1 agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, metformin).

Instituting a Successful Discharge Plan for Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Challenges and Solutions

Achieving target inpatient glycemic management outcomes has been shown to influence important clinical outcomes such as hospital length of stay and readmission rates. However, arguably the most profound, lasting impact of inpatient diabetes management is achieved at the time of discharge-namely reconciling and prescribing the right medications and making referrals for follow-up. Discharge planning offers a unique opportunity to break through therapeutic inertia, offer diabetes self-management education, and institute an individualized treatment plan that prepares the patient for discharge and promotes self-care and engagement. However, the path to a successful discharge plan can be fraught with potential pitfalls for clinicians, including lack of knowledge and experience with newer diabetes medications, costs, concerns over insurance coverage, and lack of time and resources. This article presents an algorithm to assist clinicians in selecting discharge regimens that maximize benefits and reduce barriers to self-care for patients and a framework for creating an interdisciplinary hospital diabetes discharge program.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) Inhibitors and Genital Infections in Patients With Diabetic Mellitus and Concomitant Coronary Artery Disease: A Single-Center Experience

Objective To investigate the incidence of genital infection due to the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) concomitant coronary artery diseases (CAD). Methods A single-center, physician-initiated study was conducted at a tertiary-care center in India. The study enrolled patients with T2DM who were taking SGLT-2 inhibitors for at least two months and divided them into two groups: patients with concomitant CAD as the case group and without CAD as the control group. Demographic data and medical history of patients were documented using a standard questionnaire. Itching and swelling were the signs used for the diagnosis of genital infection. Results A total of 270 consecutive patients with T2DM were enrolled and divided into two groups: 48 patients with CAD as the case group and 222 patients without CAD as the control group. The mean age of patients with CAD was 63.27±7.53 years and without CAD was 58.32±14.89 years. The mean HbA1C levels were 8.40±1.71% in the case group and 8.60±7.20% in the control group. A total of 14.6% of patients with CAD and 12.6% of patients without CAD were found to have genital infections (p=0.712). SGLT-2 inhibitors were stopped in only six patients who had genital infections and all the patients were managed using anti-fungal cream and via maintenance of proper hygiene. The overall incidence of genital infection was about 12.96%, of which only 2.7% required discontinuation of this crucial therapy. Conclusion In conclusion, the incidence of genital infection with the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors is similar among patients with T2DM with concomitant CAD and without CAD. The measures to prevent genital infection should be strongly emphasized. However, larger, well-designed studies are required to validate the current findings.

The DAPA-DIET study: Metabolic response to Dapagliflozin combined with dietary carbohydrate restriction in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity-A longitudinal cohort study

OBJECTIVE

The cardio-renal benefits of sodium glucose-like transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) therapies have been demonstrated in patients with and without type 2 diabetes. However, no studies have explored the long-term metabolic effects of SGLT2i, combined with dietary carbohydrate restriction. Our primary objective was to describe long-term changes in weight, energy expenditure, appetite and body composition after 12 months of Dapagliflozin therapy, with carbohydrate restriction, in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Our secondary objective was to assess changes in adiponectin and leptin.

METHOD

This was a 12-month cohort study in a secondary care setting. Participants (n = 18) with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and class 3 obesity underwent baseline indirect calorimetry for determination of 24-h energy expenditure, body composition, fasting serum leptin and adiponectin levels, and appetitive assessments. Following initiation of Dapagliflozin (and dietary carbohydrate restriction), measurements were repeated at monthly intervals up to 12 months.

RESULTS

Mean starting weight of participants was 129.4 kg (SD 25.9), mean BMI 46.1 kg/m² (SD 8.3) and mean HbA1c 53.9 mmol/mol (14.1). Seventeen participants completed the study; after 12 months of Dapagliflozin and dietary carbohydrate restriction, mean weight loss was 8.1 kg (SD 11.3 kg; p = .009). This was mediated by reduced fat mass (mean loss, 9.9 kg; SD 10.4 kg; p = .002) associated with reduced serum leptin at 12 months (mean reduction 11,254 pg/ml; SD 16,075; p = .011). There were no significant changes in self-reported appetite, 24-h energy expenditure or serum adiponectin during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In this study, combined Dapagliflozin therapy and carbohydrate restriction in patients with T2D and obesity resulted in a significant reduction of body weight and fat mass at 12 months without any discernible changes in energy expenditure or appetite. These results offer a scientific and clinical rationale to conduct an exploratory trial investigating the effects of a low carbohydrate diet combined with SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with T2D.

Effect of empagliflozin on left ventricular contractility and peak oxygen uptake in subjects with type 2 diabetes without heart disease: results of the EMPA-HEART trial

Background

The mechanism through which sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) prevent the incidence of heart failure and/or affect cardiac structure and function remains unclear.

Methods

The EMPA-HEART trial is aimed at verifying whether empagliflozin improves myocardial contractility (left ventricle global longitudinal strain, LV-GLS) and/or cardiopulmonary fitness (peak oxygen uptake, VO2peak) in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D) without heart disease. Patients with T2D, normal LV systolic function (2D-Echo EF > 50%), and no heart disease were randomized to either empagliflozin 10 mg or sitagliptin 100 mg for 6 months and underwent repeated cardiopulmonary exercise tests with echocardiography and determination of plasma biomarkers.

Results

Forty-four patients completed the study, 22 per arm. Despite comparable glycaemic control, modest reductions in body weight (− 1.6; [− 2.7/− 0.5] kg, p = 0.03) and plasma uric acid (− 1.5; [− 2.3/− 0.6], p = 0.002), as well as an increase in haemoglobin (+ 0.7; [+ 0.2/+ 1.1] g/dL, p = 0.0003) were evident with empagliflozin. No difference was detectable in either LV-GLS at 1 month (empagliflozin vs sitagliptin: + 0.44; [− 0.10/+ 0.98]%, p = 0.11) and 6 months of therapy (+ 0.53; [− 0.56/+ 1.62]%), or in VO_2peak (+ 0.43; [− 1.4/+ 2.3] mL/min/kg, p = 0.65). With empagliflozin, the subgroup with baseline LV-GLS below the median experienced a greater increase (time*drug p < 0.05) in LV-GLS at 1 month (+ 1.22; [+ 0.31/+ 2.13]%) and 6 months (+ 2.05; [+ 1.14/+ 2.96]%), while sitagliptin induced a modest improvement in LV-GLS only at 6 months (+ 0.92; [+ 0.21/+ 0.62]%).

Conclusions

Empagliflozin has neutral impact on both LV-GLS and exercise tolerance in subjects with T2D and normal left ventricular function. However, in patients with subclinical dysfunction (LV-GLS < 16.5%) it produces a rapid and sustained amelioration of LV contractility.

Trial registration EUDRACT Code 2016-002225-10

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-022-01618-1.

From Diabetes Care to Heart Failure Management: A Potential Therapeutic Approach Combining SGLT2 Inhibitors and Plant Extracts

Diabetes is a complex chronic disease, and among the affected patients, cardiovascular disease (CVD)is the most common cause of death. Consequently, the evidence for the cardiovascular benefit of glycaemic control may reduce long-term CVD rates. Over the years, multiple pharmacological approaches aimed at controlling blood glucose levels were unable to significantly reduce diabetes-related cardiovascular events. In this view, a therapeutic strategy combining SGLT2 inhibitors and plant extracts might represent a promising solution. Indeed, countering the main cardiometabolic risk factor using plant extracts could potentiate the cardioprotective action of SGLT2 inhibitors. This review highlights the main molecular mechanisms underlying these beneficial effects that could contribute to the better management of diabetic patients.

SGLT2 Inhibitors in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Heart Disease: A Literature Review

Sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors, commonly referred to as SGLT2i, are a group of prescription pharmaceuticals that are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for use with diet and exercise to lower blood glucose in adults with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is a well-recognized major contributor to cardiovascular and renal disease burden. In addition to blood glucose control, SGLT2i have been shown to provide significant cardiovascular and renoprotective benefits in patients with and without diabetes. In this review, we describe current evidence related to the renal and cardiovascular benefits of using SGLT2i.

Highlights of mechanisms and treatment of obesity-related hypertension

The prevalence of obesity has increased two to three times from 1975 to 2015. Large-scale epidemiological and longitudinal prospective studies link obesity with hypertension. Research suggests that excessive weight gain, particularly when associated with visceral adiposity, may account for as much as 65% to 75% of the risk of incident hypertension. Also, exercise and bariatric/metabolic surgery significantly lowers blood pressure, whereas weight gain increases blood pressure, thus establishing a firm link between these two factors. The mechanisms underpinning obesity-related hypertension are complex and multifaceted, and include, but are not limited to, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system/sympathetic nervous system overactivation, overstimulation of adipokines, insulin resistance, immune dysfunction, structural/functional renal, cardiac, and adipocyte changes. Though weight loss is the mainstay of treatment for obesity-related hypertension, it is often not a feasible long-term solution. Therefore, it is recommended that aggressive treatment with multiple antihypertensive medications combined with diet and exercise be used to lower blood pressure and prevent complications. The research regarding the mechanisms and treatment of obesity-related hypertension has moved at a blistering pace over the past ten years. Therefore, the purpose of this expert review is two-fold: to discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying obesity-related hypertension, and to revisit pharmacotherapies that have been shown to be efficacious in patients with obesity-related hypertension.

Use of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, changes in body mass index and risk of fracture: A population-based cohort study

AIMS

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor-induced weight loss might play a role in the debated elevated fracture risk with these agents. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between SGLT-2 inhibitor use, changes in body mass index (BMI) and fracture risk.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) GOLD (2013-2018). The study population (N = 34,960) consisted of adults with diabetes initiating a sulphonylurea or SGLT-2 inhibitor. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) for major osteoporotic fracture with SGLT-2 inhibitor use versus sulphonylurea use, stratified by change in BMI, average daily dose and cumulative dose. Analyses were adjusted for age, sex, lifestyle variables, comorbidities, and concomitant drug use.

RESULTS

SGLT-2 inhibitor use was not associated with an increased fracture risk compared to sulphonylurea use (adjusted HR 1.19; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-1.79). This finding remained consistent after stratification by BMI change. However, the highest cumulative dose category was associated with an increased fracture risk (adjusted HR: 2.10, 95 %CI: 1.11-3.99).

CONCLUSION

SGLT-2 inhibitor use was not associated with increased osteoporotic fracture risk, irrespective of change in BMI. However, a high cumulative dose could be an important risk factor.

Obesity and Breast Cancer Risk: The Oncogenic Implications of Metabolic Dysregulation

CONTEXT

Breast cancer is increasing in prevalence in parallel with rising rates of obesity worldwide. Obesity is recognized as a leading modifiable risk factor for the development of breast cancer; however, this association varies considerably by clinicopathologic features, and the underlying mechanisms are complex.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Pubmed literature search using combinations of "obesity," "breast cancer risk," "diet," "exercise," "weight gain," "weight loss," "adipose tissue inflammation," "crown-like structure," "immune markers," "metformin," "gliflozins," "SGLT-2i," "GLP1-RA," and related terms.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Elevated body mass index and weight gain are associated with increased risk of postmenopausal, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that adverse measures of body composition in individuals of any weight can also confer increased breast cancer risk. Mechanistically, various factors including altered adipokine balance, dysfunctional adipose tissue, dysregulated insulin signaling, and chronic inflammation contribute to tumorigenesis. Weight loss and more specifically fat mass loss through lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions improve serum metabolic and inflammatory markers, sex hormone levels, and measures of breast density, suggesting a link to decreased breast cancer risk.

CONCLUSION

Incorporating markers of metabolic health and body composition measures with body mass index can capture breast cancer risk more comprehensively. Further studies of interventions targeting body fat levels are needed to curb the growing prevalence of obesity-related cancer.

Anti-Obesity Medications and Investigational Agents: An Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) 2022

Background

This "Anti-Obesity Medications and Investigational Agents: An Obesity Medicine Association Clinical Practice Statement 2022" is intended to provide clinicians an overview of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved anti-obesity medications and investigational anti-obesity agents in development.

Methods

The scientific information for this Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) is based upon published scientific citations, clinical perspectives of OMA authors, and peer review by the Obesity Medicine Association leadership.

Results

This CPS describes pharmacokinetic principles applicable to those with obesity, and discusses the efficacy and safety of anti-obesity medications [e.g., phentermine, semaglutide, liraglutide, phentermine/topiramate, naltrexone/bupropion, and orlistat, as well as non-systemic superabsorbent oral hydrogel particles (which is technically classified as a medical device)]. Other medications discussed include setmelanotide, metreleptin, and lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. Data regarding the use of combination anti-obesity pharmacotherapy, as well as use of anti-obesity pharmacotherapy after bariatric surgery are limited; however, published data support such approaches. Finally, this CPS discusses investigational anti-obesity medications, with an emphasis on the mechanisms of action and summary of available clinical trial data regarding tirzepatide.

Conclusion

This "Anti-Obesity Medications and Investigational Agents: An Obesity Medicine Association Clinical Practice Statement 2022" is one of a series of OMA CPSs designed to assist clinicians in the care of patients with pre-obesity/obesity.

Clinical Benefits of Sodium–Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and the Mechanisms Underlying Their Cardiovascular Effects

In addition to showing antidiabetic effects, sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors also reduce cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In major trials of cardiovascular outcomes, SGLT2 inhibitors have been shown to improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes, including reduced rehospitalization in patients with heart failure, regardless of the presence of diabetes. A recent report showed that the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors in terms of cardiovascular deaths/admissions caused by heart failure and reduced ejection fraction were greater in Asians than in Whites. In this review, the first part demonstrates the results of recent clinical trials and their clinical implications and outlines current trials and upcoming research areas. The second part provides a general overview of the current understanding of the mechanisms of the cardiovascular benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors.

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Type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart failure are closely related.

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SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events and heart failure.

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SGLT2 inhibitors can improve hemodynamics, myocardial energy supply, and sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve activities.

Novel Noninvasive Approaches to the Treatment of Obesity: From Pharmacotherapy to Gene Therapy

Recent insights into the pathophysiologic underlying mechanisms of obesity have led to the discovery of several promising drug targets and novel therapeutic strategies to address the global obesity epidemic and its comorbidities. Current pharmacologic options for obesity management are largely limited in number and of modest efficacy/safety profile. Therefore, the need for safe and more efficacious new agents is urgent. Drugs that are currently under investigation modulate targets across a broad range of systems and tissues, including the central nervous system, gastrointestinal hormones, adipose tissue, kidney, liver, and skeletal muscle. Beyond pharmacotherapeutics, other potential antiobesity strategies are being explored, including novel drug delivery systems, vaccines, modulation of the gut microbiome, and gene therapy. The present review summarizes the pathophysiology of energy homeostasis and highlights pathways being explored in the effort to develop novel antiobesity medications and interventions but does not cover devices and bariatric methods. Emerging pharmacologic agents and alternative approaches targeting these pathways and relevant research in both animals and humans are presented in detail. Special emphasis is given to treatment options at the end of the development pipeline and closer to the clinic (ie, compounds that have a higher chance to be added to our therapeutic armamentarium in the near future). Ultimately, advancements in our understanding of the pathophysiology and interindividual variation of obesity may lead to multimodal and personalized approaches to obesity treatment that will result in safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss until the root causes of the problem are identified and addressed.

Characteristics and molecular mechanisms through which SGLT2 inhibitors improve metabolic diseases: A mechanism review

Metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, gout and hyperlipidemia are global health challenges. Among them, diabetes has been extensively investigated. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), which is characterized by hyperglycemia, is a complex metabolic disease that is associated with various metabolic disorders. The newly developed oral hypoglycemic agent, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, has been associated with glucose-lowering effects and it affects metabolism in various ways. However, the potential mechanisms of SGLT2 inhibitors in metabolic diseases have not fully reviewed. Many of the effects beyond glycemic control must be considered off-target effects. Therefore, we reviewed the effects of SGLT2 inhibition on metabolic diseases such as obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hyperuricemia, fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, osteoporosis and fractures. Moreover, we elucidated their molecular mechanisms to provide a theoretical basis for metabolic disease treatment.

SGLT-2 Inhibitors in NAFLD: Expanding Their Role beyond Diabetes and Cardioprotection

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an ‘umbrella’ term, comprising a spectrum ranging from benign, liver steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, liver fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD has evolved as a major health problem in recent years. Discovering ways to prevent or delay the progression of NAFLD has become a global focus. Lifestyle modifications remain the cornerstone of NAFLD treatment, even though various pharmaceutical interventions are currently under clinical trial. Among them, sodium-glucose co-transporter type-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) are emerging as promising agents. Processes regulated by SGLT-2i, such as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, autophagy and apoptosis are all implicated in NAFLD pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the NAFLD pathophysiology, and specifically focus on the potential impact of SGLT-2i in NAFLD development and progression, providing current evidence from in vitro, animal and human studies. Given this evidence, further mechanistic studies would advance our understanding of the exact mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of NAFLD and the potential beneficial actions of SGLT-2i in the context of NAFLD treatment.

Effects of dapagliflozin in the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

At present, an increasing number of studies are trying to determine whether dapagliflozin has a significant effect on the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but there is no consensus. In addition, the former meta-analyses, relying on only a few previous studies and a minimal number of research indicators, have not been able to draw sufficient conclusions simultaneously. Consequently, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of dapagliflozin in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We searched electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus) and reference lists in relevant papers for articles published in 2011-2021. We selected studies that evaluated the effects of dapagliflozin on the risk factors related to the occurrence or development of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM. A fixed or random-effect model calculated the weighted average difference of dapagliflozin on efficacy, and the factors affecting heterogeneity were determined by Meta-regression analysis.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized controlled trials (18,758 patients) were incorporated in our meta-analysis. In contrast with placebo, dapagliflozin was associated with a significantly increase in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) [MD = 1.39; 95% CI (0.77, 2.01); P < 0.0001], Δflow-mediated vasodilatation (ΔFMD) [MD = 1.22; 95% CI (0.38, 2.06); P = 0.005] and estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate(eGFR) [MD = 1.94; 95% CI (1.38, 2.51); P < 0.00001]. Furthermore, dapagliflozin had a tremendous advantage in controlling triglycerides (TG) in subgroups whose baseline eGFR < 83 ml/min/1.73m2 [MD = - 10.38; 95% CI (- 13.15, - 7.60); P < 0.00001], systolic blood pressure (SBP) [MD = - 2.82; 95% CI (- 3.22, - 2.42); P < 0.00001], HbA1c, BMI, body weight and waist circumference. However, dapagliflozin has an adverse effect on increasing total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C). Besides, there were no significant changes in other indicators, including adiponectin and C-peptide immunoreactivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled analysis suggested that dapagliflozin has a terrifically better influence over HDL-C, ΔFMD, and eGFR, and it concurrently had a tremendous advantage in controlling TG, SBP, DBP, HbA1c, BMI, body weight, and waist circumference, but it also harms increasing TC and LDL-C. Furthermore, this study found that the effect of dapagliflozin that decreases plasma levels of TG is only apparent in subgroups of baseline eGFR < 83 ml/min/1.73m2, while the subgroup of baseline eGFR ≥ 83 ml/min/1.73m2 does not. Finally, the above results summarize that dapagliflozin could be a therapeutic option for the progression of atherosclerosis in patients with T2DM. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42021278939.

Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Role of Obesity

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction is a growing epidemic and accounts for half of all patients with heart failure. Increasing prevalence, morbidity, and clinical inertia have spurred a rethinking of the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Unlike heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction has distinct clinical phenotypes. The obese-diabetic phenotype is the most often encountered phenotype in clinical practice and shares the greatest burden of morbidity and mortality. Left ventricular remodeling plays a major role in its pathophysiology. Understanding the interplay of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and inflammation in the pathophysiology of left ventricular remodeling may help in the discovery of new therapeutic targets to improve clinical outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Anti-diabetic agents like glucagon-like-peptide 1 analogs and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 are promising therapeutic modalities for the obese-diabetic phenotype of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and aggressive weight loss via lifestyle or bariatric surgery is still key to reverse adverse left ventricular remodeling. This review focuses on the obese-diabetic phenotype of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction highlighting the interaction between obesity, diabetes, and coronary microvascular dysfunction in the development and progression of left ventricular remodeling. Recent therapeutic advances are reviewed.

Targeting Features of the Metabolic Syndrome Through Sympatholytic Effects of SGLT2 Inhibition

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The moderate glucose-lowering effect of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors is unlikely to explain SGLT2 inhibitor-mediated beneficial outcomes, and unravelling the underlying mechanisms is a high priority in the research community. Given the dominant pathophysiologic role of the sympathetic nervous system activation in conditions such as hypertension and perturbed glucose homeostasis, it is pertinent to postulate that SGLT2 inhibitors may exert their beneficial effects at least in part via sympathetic inhibition.

RECENT FINDINGS

SGLT2 inhibitors have shown enormous potential to improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes, and their therapeutic potential is currently being investigated in a range of associated comorbidities such as heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Indeed, recent experimental data in relevant animal models highlight a bidirectional interaction between sympathetic nervous system activation and SGLT2 expression, and this facilitates several of the features associated with SGLT2 inhibition observed in clinical trials including improved glucose metabolism, weight loss, increased diuresis, and lowering of blood pressure. Currently available data highlight the various levels of interaction between the sympathetic nervous system and SGLT2 expression and explores the potential for SGLT2 inhibition as a therapeutic strategy in conditions commonly characterised by sympathetic activation.

Efficacy of canagliflozin versus metformin in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized, open-label, noninferiority trial

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and efficacy of canagliflozin in comparison to metformin in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with insulin resistance (IR).

METHODS

A single-centre, prospective, randomized open-label (ratio 1:1) noninferiority trial was conducted at the Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, between July 2019 and April 2021. Women aged 18 to 45 years with PCOS and IR were enrolled and randomly assigned to either 100 mg (n = 33) canagliflozin daily or 1500 to 2000 mg metformin daily (n = 35) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was changes in homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)-IR after 12 weeks of treatment. The secondary outcomes included changes in anthropometric measurements, menstrual frequency, sex hormone levels, metabolic variables and body fat distribution.

RESULTS

For lowering of HOMA-IR after 12 weeks of treatment, canagliflozin was found to be noninferior to metformin (least-squares mean difference -0.81% [95% confidence interval -2.13 to 0.51]). Both canagliflozin and metformin significantly improved menstrual pattern, reduced body weight and total fat mass, and decreased triglyceride levels. Compared with metformin, canagliflozin had significant advantages in reducing uric acid and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels. Pruritus vulvae (9.09%) and gastrointestinal reaction (55.55%) were the main adverse events in the metformin group and canagliflozin group, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that canagliflozin was not inferior to metformin in PCOS patients with IR, which suggests that sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors should be considered as effective drugs in the treatment of PCOS patients with IR.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for cardiovascular and renal protection: A treatment approach far beyond their glucose-lowering effect

Findings from cardiovascular outcome trials on certain newer glucose-lowering drugs have shown clear cardiovascular and renal benefits. In this review, we provide an updated overview of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in terms of cardiovascular and renal protection. Both drugs have been described as diabetes/disease-modifying drugs. There is robust evidence on the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists in renal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease-especially in stroke-which are mainly explained by their antiproteinuric effect. However, this class of drugs has only shown neutral effects on heart failure and further studies are necessary in order to assess their role in this disease. SGLT-2 inhibitors have shown strong benefits in heart failure hospitalizations and renal outcomes, mainly through limiting glomerular filtration rate deterioration, regardless of the presence of diabetes. Nonetheless, their effect on the prevention of major adverse atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and cardiovascular mortality seems to be limited to patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Evidence on the cardiovascular and renal benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors have significantly modified management plans and treatment choices for patients with type 2 diabetes. There is now a focus on a multifactorial approach that goes beyond the glucose-lowering effect of these drugs, which are the preferred choice in routine clinical practice. According to the current evidence, a patient-focused approach that includes both individualized glycemic control and cardiorenal prevention using GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors with proven cardiovascular and renal benefits is believed to be the best strategy for achieving the treatment goals of patients with type 2 diabetes. Despite the strong cardiovascular and renal benefits of these drugs, further research is required in order to clarify questions that remain unanswered.