SGLT2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes Management: Key Evidence and Implications for Clinical Practice

SGLT2 inhibition improves PI3Kα inhibitor-induced hyperglycemia: findings from preclinical animal models and from patients in the BYLieve and SOLAR-1 trials

PURPOSE

Alpelisib plus fulvestrant demonstrated a significant progression-free survival benefit versus fulvestrant in patients with PIK3CA-mutated HR+ /HER2- advanced breast cancer (ABC) (SOLAR-1). Hyperglycemia, an on-target adverse effect of PI3Kα inhibition, can lead to dose modifications, potentially impacting alpelisib efficacy. We report data from preclinical models and two clinical trials (SOLAR-1 and BYLieve) on Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use to improve PI3Kα inhibitor-associated hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Healthy Brown Norway (BN), mild diabetic Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF), and Rat1-myr-p110α/HBRX3077 tumor-bearing nude rats treated with alpelisib were analyzed for glucose and insulin control with metformin and dapagliflozin (SGLT2i) and alpelisib efficacy. Hyperglycemia adverse events (AEs) were compared between patients receiving SGLT2i with alpelisib (n = 19) and a propensity score-matched cohort not receiving SGLT2i (n = 74) in both trials.

RESULTS

Dapagliflozin and metformin in BN and ZDF rats treated with alpelisib normalized blood glucose and reduced insulin levels. No signs of ketosis or drug-drug interaction were observed when metformin and dapagliflozin was administered with alpelisib. Alpelisib antitumor efficacy was maintained when used with dapagliflozin in tumor-bearing rats. Compared with a matched set of patients without SGLT2i, patients receiving SGLT2i had 4.9 and 6.4 times lower rates of grade ≥ 3 hyperglycemia AEs and hyperglycemia AEs resulting in alpelisib dose adjustments, interruptions, or withdrawals, respectively, and a relative reduction in risk of experiencing these AEs (70.6% and 35.7%).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest adding an SGLT2i can effectively manage hyperglycemia, resulting in fewer alpelisib dose modifications and discontinuations in patients with PIK3CA-mutated HR+ /HER2- ABC (SOLAR-1: NCT02437318; BYLieve: NCT03056755).

Key results from observational studies and real-world evidence of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor effectiveness and safety in reducing cardio-renal risk

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, originally designed to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D), have emerged as a crucial class of drugs for managing cardio-renal diseases. These drugs work by targeting the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys, promoting the excretion of glucose and influencing metabolic pathways beyond glucose control. The relationship between cardio-renal diseases and SGLT2 inhibitors has been explored through landmark trials and real-world evidence (RWE) studies, demonstrating significant reductions in cardio-renal complications. This review discusses the importance of RWE studies alongside randomized controlled trials in understanding the real-world effectiveness and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors. It outlines the advantages and disadvantages of RWE compared to RCTs, highlighting their complementary roles in providing comprehensive insights into treatment outcomes. By examining a range of RWE studies, the review underscores the cardio-renal benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors across various patient populations. Safety assessments indicate that SGLT2 inhibitors are generally well tolerated, with severe adverse events being rare. Common issues, such as genital mycotic infections and urinary tract infections, are acknowledged, alongside less frequent but significant adverse events including diabetic ketoacidosis, lower-limb amputations, and bone fractures. In summary, SGLT2 inhibitors show promising cardio-renal protective effects in real-world scenarios across diverse populations in T2D, indicating their potential as early intervention measures. Continued research is essential for gaining a thorough understanding of their long-term effects and safety profiles.

SGLT2 inhibitor Dapagliflozin alleviates cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis after myocardial infarction by activating PXR and promoting angiogenesis

BACKGROUND

Myocardial infarction (MI) has emerged as the primary cause of global mortality. Managing blood sugar levels could play a vital role in the treatment of MI. Dapagliflozin (DPG), a commonly used hypoglycemic drug, has demonstrated efficacy in treating heart failure. However, the impact of DPG on MI remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of DPG in relation to MI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

DPG administration alleviated MI-induced cardiac dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis. We also found that DPG administration mitigated cardiomyocyte apoptosis through TUNEL staining. CD31 and α-Sma staining revealed that DPG promotes post-MI angiogenesis in mice. In vitro, using scratch assays, transwell assays, and tube formation assays, we discovered that DPG enhanced HUVEC proliferation capacity. Mechanistically, DPG promoted the expression of extracellular matrix genes and mitochondrial function-related genes. Additionally, molecular docking identified the interaction between DPG and PXR, which activated PXR and recruited it to the promoters of Pgam2 and Tcap, promoting their expressions, thus facilitating angiogenesis and post-MI heart repair.

CONCLUSIONS

DPG promotes angiogenesis by activating PXR, thereby alleviating cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis after myocardial infarction. This study provides new strategies and targets for the treatment of ischemic disease.

SGLT2 Inhibitors - The New Standard of Care for Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Protection in Type 2 Diabetes: A Narrative Review

A substantial evidence base supports the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This class of medicines has demonstrated important benefits that extend beyond glucose-lowering efficacy to protective mechanisms capable of slowing or preventing the onset of long-term cardiovascular, renal and metabolic (CVRM) complications, making their use highly applicable for organ protection and the maintenance of long-term health outcomes. SGLT2is have shown cost-effectiveness in T2DM management and economic savings over other glucose-lowering therapies due to reduced incidence of cardiovascular and renal events. National and international guidelines advocate SGLT2i use early in the T2DM management pathway, based upon a plethora of supporting data from large-scale cardiovascular outcome trials, renal outcomes trials and real-world studies. While most people with T2DM would benefit from CVRM protection through SGLT2i use, prescribing hesitancy remains, potentially due to confusion concerning their place in the complex therapeutic paradigm, variation in licensed indications or safety perceptions/misunderstandings associated with historical data that have since been superseded by robust clinical evidence and long-term pharmacovigilance reporting. This latest narrative review developed by the Improving Diabetes Steering Committee (IDSC) outlines the place of SGLT2is within current evidence-informed guidelines, examines their potential as the standard of care for the majority of newly diagnosed people with T2DM and sets into context the perceived risks and proven advantages of SGLT2is in terms of sustained health outcomes. The authors discuss the cost-effectiveness case for SGLT2is and provide user-friendly tools to support healthcare professionals in the correct application of these medicines in T2DM management. The previously published IDSC SGLT2i Prescribing Tool for T2DM Management has undergone updates and reformatting and is now available as a Decision Tool in an interactive pdf format as well as an abbreviated printable A4 poster/wall chart.

Acute Kidney Injury and Electrolyte Imbalances Caused by Dapagliflozin Short-Term Use

Dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), has shown demonstrated benefits for renal and cardiovascular outcomes in large clinical trials. However, short-term concerns regarding its impact on renal function and electrolyte balance exist. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term effects of dapagliflozin on renal function and electrolyte balance in patients newly prescribed the medication. A retrospective analysis of 246 patients who initiated dapagliflozin therapy was conducted. Serum creatinine, sodium, and potassium levels were measured at baseline (before dapagliflozin) and 5-8 days after initiation (endpoint). A Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Pearson's chi-square test, and Fischer's exact test were used for the data analysis. Glycemia and sodium levels were significantly higher at the baseline compared to the endpoint (p < 0.001). Conversely, creatinine and potassium levels were significantly higher at the endpoint than at the baseline (p < 0.001). The prevalence of hyponatremia and hyperkalemia were increased at the endpoint (17.5% vs. 10.2% and 16.7% vs. 8.9%, respectively). Although not statistically significant, a trend towards increased hyponatremia with the co-administration of furosemide was observed (p = 0.089). No significant association was found between potassium-sparing medications (p > 0.05) and hyperkalemia, except for angiotensin receptor blockers (p = 0.017). The combination of dapagliflozin and furosemide significantly increased the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) at the endpoint (p = 0.006). Age, gender, and chronic kidney disease status did not significantly influence the occurrence of AKI, hyponatremia, or hyperkalemia (p > 0.05). These findings emphasize the importance of the close monitoring of renal function and electrolyte balance, particularly in the early stages of dapagliflozin therapy, especially in patients receiving diuretics or renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors.

Dapagliflozin mitigates oxidative stress, inflammatory, and histopathological markers of aging in mice

Aging, a complex physiological process affecting all living things, is a major area of research, particularly focused on interventions to slow its progression. This study assessed the antiaging efficacy of dapagliflozin (DAPA) on various aging-related parameters in a mouse model artificially induced to age. Forty male Swiss albino mice were randomly divided into four groups of ten animals each. The control group (Group I) received normal saline. The aging model group (Group II) was administered D-galactose orally at 500mg/kg to induce aging. Following the aging induction, the positive control group received Vitamin C supplementation (Group III), while the DAPA group (Group IV) was treated with dapagliflozin. The inflammatory mediators (TNF-α and IL-1β) showed similar patterns of change. No statistically significant difference was observed between groups III and IV. Both groups had significantly lower values compared to GII, while it was significantly higher compared to GI. Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) showed no statistically significant difference between groups GIII and GIV, but it was higher in GIII compared to GII and significantly lower in GIII compared to GI. The study demonstrated that dapagliflozin exerts a beneficial impact on many indicators of aging in mice. The intervention resulted in a reduction in hypertrophy in cardiomyocytes, an enhancement in skin vitality, a decrease in the presence of inflammatory mediators, and an improvement in the efficacy of antioxidants.

In Search of Novel SGLT2 Inhibitors by High-throughput Virtual Screening

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus constitutes approximately 90% of all reported forms of diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance characterizes this manifestation of diabetes. The prevalence of this condition is commonly observed in patients aged 45 and above; however, there is an emerging pattern of younger cohorts receiving diagnoses primarily attributed to lifestyle-related variables, including obesity, sedentary behavior, and poor dietary choices. The enzyme SGLT2 exerts a negative regulatory effect on insulin signaling pathways, resulting in the development of insulin resistance and subsequent elevation of blood glucose levels. The maintenance of glucose homeostasis relies on the proper functioning of insulin signaling pathways, while disruptions in insulin signaling can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

Our study aimed to identify novel SGLT2 inhibitors by high-throughput virtual Screening.

METHODS

We screened the May bridge Hit Discover database to identify potent hits followed by druglikeness, synthetic accessibility, PAINS alert, toxicity estimation, ADME assessment, and consensus molecular docking.

RESULTS

The screening process led to the identification of three molecules that demonstrated significant binding affinity, favorable drug-like properties, effective ADME, and minimal toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The identified molecules could manage T2DM effectively by inhibiting SGLT2, providing a promising avenue for future therapeutic strategies.

Multinational patterns of second line antihyperglycaemic drug initiation across cardiovascular risk groups: federated pharmacoepidemiological evaluation in LEGEND-T2DM

Objective

To assess the uptake of second line antihyperglycaemic drugs among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are receiving metformin.

Design

Federated pharmacoepidemiological evaluation in LEGEND-T2DM.

Setting

10 US and seven non-US electronic health record and administrative claims databases in the Observational Health Data Sciences and Informatics network in eight countries from 2011 to the end of 2021.

Participants

4.8 million patients (≥18 years) across US and non-US based databases with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had received metformin monotherapy and had initiated second line treatments.

Exposure

The exposure used to evaluate each database was calendar year trends, with the years in the study that were specific to each cohort.

Main outcomes measures

The outcome was the incidence of second line antihyperglycaemic drug use (ie, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, and sulfonylureas) among individuals who were already receiving treatment with metformin. The relative drug class level uptake across cardiovascular risk groups was also evaluated.

Results

4.6 million patients were identified in US databases, 61 382 from Spain, 32 442 from Germany, 25 173 from the UK, 13 270 from France, 5580 from Scotland, 4614 from Hong Kong, and 2322 from Australia. During 2011-21, the combined proportional initiation of the cardioprotective antihyperglycaemic drugs (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors) increased across all data sources, with the combined initiation of these drugs as second line drugs in 2021 ranging from 35.2% to 68.2% in the US databases, 15.4% in France, 34.7% in Spain, 50.1% in Germany, and 54.8% in Scotland. From 2016 to 2021, in some US and non-US databases, uptake of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors increased more significantly among populations with no cardiovascular disease compared with patients with established cardiovascular disease. No data source provided evidence of a greater increase in the uptake of these two drug classes in populations with cardiovascular disease compared with no cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions

Despite the increase in overall uptake of cardioprotective antihyperglycaemic drugs as second line treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus, their uptake was lower in patients with cardiovascular disease than in people with no cardiovascular disease over the past decade. A strategy is needed to ensure that medication use is concordant with guideline recommendations to improve outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce the incidence of abnormal blood glucose caused by statins in non-diabetes patients with HFrEF after PCI

BACKGROUND

Taking statins for a long time is associated with an increased risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors can reduce insulin resistance and improve pancreatic β-cell function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In total, 333 non-diabetes patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are included. The enrolled patients are divided into a matched group (n = 198) and an SGLT2 inhibitors group (n = 135). There are no statistical differences in general information between the two groups before treatment. After a mean follow-up time of 13 months, abnormal blood glucose levels are significantly higher in the matched group than in the SGLT2 inhibitors group (6.06 vs. 0.74%, P < 0.05). There are no statistically significant differences in the alanine aminotransferase (ALT), uric acid (UA), and estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) levels between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2 inhibitors play a significant protective role in reducing the risk of statins-induced abnormal blood glucose in non-diabetes patients with HFrEF after PCI, without increasing the burden on the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on renal risk factors in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

Several trials have assessed the antihyperglycemic effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We conducted a quantitative analysis to assess the effects of SGLT2Is on renal risk factors in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases published before September 30, 2022. The intervention group received SGLT2Is as monotherapy or add-on treatment, and the control group received placebos, standard care, or active control. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool. Meta-analysis was performed on studies with abnormal glucose metabolism populations and studies using the weighted mean differences (WMDs) as the measure of the effect size. Clinical trials providing changes in serum uric acid (SUA) were included. The mean change of SUA, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were calculated.

RESULTS

After a literature search and detailed evaluation, a total of 11 RCTs were included for quantitative analysis to analyze the differences between the SGLT2I group and the control group. The results showed that SGLT2I significantly reduced SUA (MD =  -0.56, 95% CI =  -0.66 ~ -0.46, I² = 0%, P < 0.00001), HbA1c (MD =  -0.20, 95% CI =  -0.26 ~ -0.13, I² = 0%, P < 0.00001), and BMI (MD =  -1.19, 95% CI =  -1.84 ~ -0.55, I² = 0%, P = 0.0003). There was no significant difference in the reduction of eGFR observed in the SGLT2I group (MD =  -1.60, 95% CI =  -3.82 ~ 0.63, I² = 13%, P = 0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

These results showed that the SGLT2I group caused greater reductions in SUA, HbA1c, and BMI but had no effect on eGFR. These data suggested that SGLT2Is may have numerous potentially beneficial clinical effects in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism. However, these results need to be consolidated by further studies.

Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes: Overcoming Barriers to Effective Weight Management

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) among children and adolescents has remarkably increased in the last two decades, particularly among ethnic minorities. Management of T2DM is challenging in the adolescent population due to a constellation of factors, including biological, socioeconomic, cultural, and psychological barriers. Weight reduction is an essential component in management of T2DM as weight loss is associated with improvement in insulin sensitivity and glycemic status. A family centered and culturally appropriate approach offered by a multidisciplinary team is crucial to address the biological, psychosocial, cultural, and financial barriers to weight management in youth with T2DM. Lifestyle interventions and pharmacotherapy have shown modest efficacy in achieving weight reduction in adolescents with T2DM. Bariatric surgery is associated with excellent weight reduction and remission of T2DM in youth. Emerging therapies for weight reduction in youth include digital technologies, newer GLP-1 agonists and endoscopic procedures.

Medical treatment of Cushing's disease with concurrent diabetes mellitus

Cushing's disease (CD) is a severe endocrine disorder characterized by chronic hypercortisolaemia secondary to an overproduction of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) by a pituitary adenoma. Cortisol excess impairs normal glucose homeostasis through many pathophysiological mechanisms. The varying degrees of glucose intolerance, including impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are commonly observed in patients with CD and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Although definitive surgical treatment of ACTH-secreting tumors remains the most effective therapy to control both cortisol levels and glucose metabolism, nearly one-third of patients present with persistent or recurrent disease and require additional treatments. In recent years, several medical therapies demonstrated prominent clinical efficacy in the management of patients with CD for whom surgery was non-curative or for those who are ineligible to undergo surgical treatment. Cortisol-lowering medications may have different effects on glucose metabolism, partially independent of their role in normalizing hypercortisolaemia. The expanding therapeutic landscape offers new opportunities for the tailored therapy of patients with CD who present with glucose intolerance or DM, however, additional clinical studies are needed to determine the optimal management strategies. In this article, we discuss the pathophysiology of impaired glucose metabolism caused by cortisol excess and review the clinical efficacy of medical therapies of CD, with particular emphasis on their effects on glucose homeostasis.

Insights into efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin treatment for the management in older adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin as a monotherapy glucose-lowering drug treatment for older adults with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS

Randomized controlled trial reports were retrieved from PubMed, Embase Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from database inception to 8 May 2021. Publication bias and heterogeneity were assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and the Cochrane Q statistic, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, dapagliflozin as a monotherapy glucose-lowering drug did improve the control of glycosylated hemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose levels in older adults. Our analysis also confirmed that the body weight of older adults was well controlled under treatment of dapagliflozin as a monotherapy glucose-lowering drug. Patients in older adults with diabetes took a higher risk of genital infection and renal impairment or failure after treatment of dapagliflozin. In addition, treatment with dapagliflozin reduced the risk of hypoglycemia, and did not reveal increased risk of urinary tract infection and developing fractures compared to placebo in older adults.

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin as a monotherapy glucose-lowering drug appeared to be an effective treatment for older adults with diabetes, although it might increase risk of genital infection and renal impairment or failure.

An exploration of the experience of dapagliflozin in clinical practice

Despite the availability of established treatments, heart failure (HF) is associated with a poor prognosis and suboptimal management, highlighting the need for new treatment and prevention options. It is suggested that sodium-glucose cotransporters 2 inhibitors can provide a beneficial therapeutic approach to significantly lower the disease burden associated with cardiovascular illness in both patients with and without Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review focuses on the therapeutic aspects of dapagliflozin in clinical practice. Future studies may intend to confirm the significant clinical benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors.

Renoprotective effects of dapagliflozin in an iron overload non-diabetic rat model

PURPOSE

Sodium glucose co-transporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitors are oral anti-diabetic drugs with proven kidney protective effects. Renal protective effects in non-diabetic individuals have also been shown in recent studies. The aim of this study was to determine the renal protective effects of dapagliflozin by evaluating the oxidative stress markers in the kidney tissue and demonstrating it in renal histological sections in an iron-overloaded rat model.

METHODS

A total of 24 Wistar Albino rats were separated into 3 groups of 8 rats. Iron sucrose (60 ​mg/kg/day) was administered intraperitoneally to the first group (Group Fe) (n ​= ​8), iron sucrose and dapagliflozin (0.1 ​mg/kg/day) to the second group (Group Fe ​+ ​D) (n ​= ​8) and intraperitoneal saline as placebo to the control group (Group C) (n ​= ​8) for 4 weeks. The glomerular changes were semi-quantitatively scored with Oxford Classification. Oxidative stress was analyzed from the tissue fluorescent oxidation product (FLOP), malondialdehyde (MDA) and total sulfhydryl (T-SH) levels.

RESULTS

Dapagliflozin prevented glomerular and mesangial damage of iron overload in the non-diabetic rat model. MDA levels were significantly higher in Group Fe compared to the Group C, and there was no significant difference between the Fe ​+ ​D group and Group C. T-SH levels were preserved in the Fe ​+ ​D group and were significantly higher than in the Fe group.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that dapagliflozin helped preserve the glomerular and mesangial structure histologically and reduced oxidative stress markers in a non-diabetic iron overload rat model.

Potential diabetic cardiomyopathy therapies targeting pyroptosis: A mini review

Pyroptosis is primarily considered a pro-inflammatory class of caspase-1- and gasdermin D (GSDMD)-dependent programmed cell death. Inflammasome activation promotes the maturation and release of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, cleavage of GSDMD, and development of pyroptosis. Recent studies have reported that NLRP3 inflammasome activation-mediated pyroptosis aggravates the formation and development of diabetes cardiomyopathy (DCM). These studies provide theoretical mechanisms for exploring a novel approach to treat DCM-associated cardiac dysfunction. Accordingly, this review aims to summarize studies that investigated possible DCM therapies targeting pyroptosis and elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis, and its potential association with the pathogenesis of DCM. This review may serve as a basis for the development of potential pharmacological agents as novel and effective treatments for managing and treating DCM.

Defining the Role of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Primary Care: Time to Think Differently

Disease burden in people with diabetes is mainly driven by long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. This is a consequence of the interconnection between the cardiovascular, renal and metabolic systems, through a continuous chain of events referred to as 'the cardiorenal metabolic continuum'. Increasing evidence suggests that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have beneficial effects across all stages of the cardiorenal metabolic continuum, reducing morbidity and mortality in a wide range of individuals, from those with diabetes and multiple risk factors to those with established heart failure and chronic kidney disease, regardless of the presence of diabetes. Despite this robust evidence base, the complexity of label indications and misconceptions concerning potential side effects have resulted in a lack of clear understanding in primary care regarding the implementation of SGLT2is in clinical practice. With this in mind, we provide an overview of the clinical and economic benefits of SGLT2is across the cardiorenal metabolic continuum together with practical considerations in order to help address some of these concerns and clearly define the role of SGLT2is in primary care as a holistic outcomes-driven treatment with the potential to reduce disease burden across the cardiorenal metabolic spectrum.

The Place and Value of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in the Evolving Treatment Paradigm for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review

Over recent years, the expanding evidence base for sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) therapies has revealed benefits beyond their glucose-lowering efficacy in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), resulting in their recognition as cardiorenal medicines. While SGLT2is continue to be recommended among the second-line therapies for the treatment of hyperglycaemia, their true value now extends to the prevention of debilitating and costly cardiovascular and renal events for high-risk individuals, with particular benefit shown in reducing major adverse cardiac events and heart failure (HF) and slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease. However, SGLT2i usage is still suboptimal among groups considered to be at greatest risk of cardiorenal complications. The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has intensified financial pressures on healthcare systems, which may hamper further investment in newer effective medicines. Emerging evidence indicates that glycaemic control should be prioritised for people with T2DM in the era of COVID-19 and practical advice on the use of T2DM medications during periods of acute illness remains important, particularly for healthcare professionals working in primary care who face multiple competing priorities. This article provides the latest update from the Improving Diabetes Steering Committee, including perspectives on the value of SGLT2is as cost-effective therapies within the T2DM treatment paradigm, with particular focus on the latest published evidence relating to the prevention or slowing of cardiorenal complications. The implications for ongoing and future approaches to diabetes care are considered in the light of the continuing coronavirus pandemic, and relevant aspects of international treatment guidelines are highlighted with practical advice on the appropriate use of SGLT2is in commonly occurring T2DM clinical scenarios. The 'SGLT2i Prescribing Tool for T2DM Management', previously published by the Steering Committee, has been updated to reflect the latest evidence and is provided in the Supplementary Materials to help support clinicians delivering T2DM care.

Dapagliflozin plus exenatide on patients with type 2 diabetes awaiting bariatric surgery in the DEXBASU study

The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist family together with the renal sodium/glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors have garnered interest as potential therapeutic agents for subjects with type 2 diabetes and obesity. In these patients, bariatric surgery is indicated based in a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2. A 24-week non-blinded, randomized pilot study to assess the efficacy of subcutaneous exenatide 2.0 mg once weekly plus oral dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily (Group A) compared to a control group (Group B) in 56 patients with type 2 diabetes awaiting bariatric surgery was conducted (EudraCTid.: 2017-001,454-33). Both groups received an energy-deficit low-fat diet. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients running off the criteria for bariatric surgery at the end of the follow-up period (BMI ≤ 35.0 kg/m2 or a BMI ≤ 40.0 kg/m2 plus an HbA1c ≤ 6.0%). Changes in the BMI were also of interest. The proportion of patients who ran off the criteria for bariatric surgery was larger in Group A than in the control group (45.8% vs. 12.0%, p = 0.010). Participants in Group A exhibited an absolute decrease in body weight and BMI of 8.1 kg (95%IC: - 11.0 to - 5.2) and 3.3 kg/m2 (95%IC: - 4.5 to - 2.2), respectively (p < 0.001 for both in comparison with Group B). A higher percentage of participants in Group A reached a BMI < 35 kg/m2 (45.8 vs 12.0%) and lost > 10% of their initial body weight (20.8 vs 0%) compared to Group B. The combination of exenatide plus dapagliflozin appears as a strategic option to reduce the waiting list for bariatric surgery, especially in those patients with type 2 diabetes.

Safety of add-on sulfonylurea therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes using metformin: a population-based real-world study

INTRODUCTION

Metformin is the initial oral antihyperglycemic agent (OHA) of choice for most patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, more than one agent is often required for optimal glucose control. As the choice of preferred second OHAs is less well defined, we sought to compare the real-world safety of sulfonylureas to other OHAs as add-on therapy to metformin in patients with T2D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included adults in Manitoba, Canada with T2D from 2006 to 2017. Using a new-user design, we divided patients who started on metformin into two groups: add-on therapy with a sulfonylurea and add-on therapy with a different OHA. Outcomes included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, and major hypoglycemic episodes. We calculated propensity scores and applied inverse probability of treatment weights to each individual. We compared groups using Cox proportional hazards regression and explored differences in HRs between pre-2008 (acarbose, meglitinides, and thiazolidinediones) and post-2008 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and sodium-glucose linked transporter-2 inhibitors) OHAs.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 32 576 individuals (28 077 metformin plus sulfonylurea and 4499 metformin plus 'other'). Patients newly prescribed a sulfonylurea in the setting of metformin had a higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.84, p=0.005) and major hypoglycemic episodes (HR 2.78, 95% CI 1.66 to 4.66, p<0.001) than those prescribed an 'other' OHA. No differences in cardiovascular events were observed (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.22, p=0.92). In subgroup analyses, mortality and cardiovascular event risk was higher in patients prescribed sulfonylureas versus post-2008 OHAs.

CONCLUSIONS

Sulfonylureas as add-on therapy to metformin are associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality and major hypoglycemic episodes compared with 'other' OHAs. Post hoc analysis suggests newer OHAs may be preferred to sulfonylureas as second-line therapy for glycemic control.

Comparative effectiveness and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors versus metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes: An observational study using data from routine care

AIM

To assess the effectiveness and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in treatment-naïve patients compared with metformin.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

We conducted a cohort study of US adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had not filled a prescription for a diabetes medication in the preceding year. We then identified patients who newly filled a prescription for an SGLT2 inhibitor or metformin between 2013 and 2018. The primary outcome was a composite of heart failure, myocardial infarction or stroke. Safety outcomes included hypoglycaemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, genital infection, lactic acidosis and acute kidney injury. After 1:1 propensity-score (PS) matching, proportional hazards models were fit to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

We identified 9964 individuals newly prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor who were PS-matched to 9964 individuals newly prescribed metformin. The mean age was 54 years, 52% were women, and the duration of follow-up was 213 days for metformin and 147 days for SGLT2 inhibitors. The primary outcome occurred in 54 patients (7.2 events per 1000 person-years) who received an SGLT2 inhibitor, compared to 84 patients (8.5 per 1000 person-years) who received metformin (HR  0.82, 95% CI 0.58, 1.15). Similar results (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.69, 1.09) were observed in an analysis with longer follow-up (ie, approximately 600 days). The rates of genital infection (HR 2.28, 95% CI 1.87, 2.78) and diabetic ketoacidosis (HR 1.58, 95% CI 0.92, 2.70) were higher for patients prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor compared to metformin, while the rates of acute kidney injury (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.60, 1.47) or hypoglycaemia (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.48, 1.42) were not.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a numerically lower rate of short-/mid-term cardiovascular events for patients newly prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor compared to metformin, albeit with wide CIs that include the possibility of a null effect. SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a higher rate of genital infection and diabetic ketoacidosis. Larger cohort studies and long-term clinical trials powered to assess cardiovascular events are necessary to understand the risk-benefit profile of SGLT2 inhibitors as first-line therapy for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Protocol for an observational cohort study investigating personalised medicine for intensification of treatment in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: the PERMIT study

INTRODUCTION

For people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who require an antidiabetic drug as an add-on to metformin, there is controversy about whether newer drug classes such as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) or sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) reduce the risk of long-term complications compared with sulfonylureas (SU). There is widespread variation across National Health Service Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in drug choice for second-line treatment in part because National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines do not specify a single preferred drug class, either overall or within specific patient subgroups. This study will evaluate the relative effectiveness of the three most common second-line treatments in the UK (SU, DPP4i and SGLT2i as add-ons to metformin) and help target treatments according to individual risk profiles.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The study includes people with T2DM prescribed one of the second-line treatments-of-interest between 2014 and 2020 within the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked with Hospital Episode Statistics and Office of National Statistics. We will use an instrumental variable (IV) method to estimate short-term and long-term relative effectiveness of second-line treatments according to individuals' risk profiles. This method minimises bias from unmeasured confounders by exploiting the natural variation in second-line prescribing across CCGs as an IV for the choice of prescribed treatment. The primary outcome to assess short-term effectiveness will be change in haemoglobin A1c (%) 12 months after treatment initiation. Outcome measures to assess longer-term effectiveness (maximum ~6 years) will include microvascular and macrovascular complications, all-cause mortality and hospital admissions during follow-up.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Independent Scientific Advisory Committee (20-064) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Research Ethics Committee (21395). Results, codelists and other analysis code will be made available to patients, clinicians, policy-makers and researchers.

Cost-Effectiveness of Empagliflozin and Metformin Combination Versus Standard Care as First-Line Therapy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events, but are currently not used as first-line therapy. This study was conducted to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of first-line empagliflozin plus metformin versus metformin monotherapy among Australians with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and existing cardiovascular disease (CVD).

METHODS

A Markov model with one-year cycles and a five-year time horizon was constructed to simulate the occurrence of recurrent cardiovascular events among Australians aged 50 to 84 years with T2DM and CVD. Efficacy results were derived from the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial. Costs and utilities were drawn from published sources. The evaluation adopted both healthcare and societal perspectives, with the latter ascribing the Australian Government's 'value of statistical life year' (VoSLY, AUD 213,000) to each year lived by a person. Future outcomes were discounted at 5% annually. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to enhance robustness of conclusions.

RESULTS

Compared to metformin monotherapy, first-line empagliflozin plus metformin reduced overall cardiovascular events by 0.82% and overall deaths by 7.72% over five years. There were 0.2 years of life saved (YoLS) per person and 0.16 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained, at a net healthcare cost of AUD 4,408. These equated to incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of AUD 22,076 per YoLS and AUD 28,244 per QALY gained. The gains in VoSLY equated to AUD 42,530 per person, meaning that from a societal perspective, the intervention was cost saving.

CONCLUSION

First-line empagliflozin plus metformin may represent a cost-effective strategy for the management of T2DM and CVD in Australia.

Insights Into the Results of Sotagliflozin Cardiovascular Outcome Trials: Is Dual Inhibition the Cherry on the Cake of Cardiorenal Protection?

Sotagliflozin is a dual sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitor, manifesting a 20-fold higher inhibitory activity for SGLT2 than for SGLT1. Differences in SGLT2 over SGLT1 selectivity of the available agents have been proposed to relate to variability in efficacy and safety characteristics. In contrast to other SGLT2 inhibitors, the cardiorenal effects of sotagliflozin in type 2 diabetes had not been explored until recently, when the results of SOLOIST-WHF (focusing on heart failure [HF] outcomes) and SCORED (focusing on renal outcomes) were published. In SOLOIST-WHF, sotagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular (CV) death and hospitalizations and urgent visits for HF. The findings showed that the risk reduction was consistent in people with reduced but also in those with preserved ejection fraction (EF). In SCORED, sotagliflozin significantly reduced the primary end point of CV deaths, hospitalizations for HF, and urgent visits for HF. A reduction in glycated hemoglobin was evident even in participants with estimated glomerular filtration rate values below 30 mL/min/1.73 m². SCORED is also the first trial to illustrate the benefits of the class across the full range of albuminuria. Moreover, the endpoint of stroke was significantly reduced by 34% in the sotagliflozin compared with the placebo group. The findings of the two studies provide novel insights into the clinical utility of SGLT2 inhibitors, particularly with respect to the early initiation in stable HF, the benefits in HF with preserved EF, the glucose-lowering efficacy in people with severe renal impairment and their potential to improve atherosclerotic vascular disease, including stroke, outcomes.

Prescribing sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors for type 2 diabetes in primary care: influence of renal function and heart failure diagnosis

Background

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) are licenced for initiation for glucose lowering in people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m²). However, recent trial data have shown that these medications have renal and cardio-protective effects, even for impaired kidney function. The extent to which trial evidence and updated guidelines have influenced real-world prescribing of SGLT-2is is not known, particularly with co-administration of diuretics.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional analysis of people with T2DM registered with practices in the Oxford-Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) Research and Surveillance Centre (RSC) database on the 31st July 2019. We calculated the percentage of people prescribed SGLT-2is according to eGFR categories (< 45, 45–59, and ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m²), with a heart failure diagnosis and stratified by body mass index categories (underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese), and with concomitant prescription of a diuretic. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed to determine whether heart failure diagnosis and renal function were associated with SGLT-2i prescribing.

Results

From a population of 242,624 people with T2DM across 419 practices, 11.0% (n = 26,700) had been prescribed SGLT-2is. The majority of people initiated SGLT-2is had an eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m² (93.2%), and 4.3% had a heart failure diagnosis. 9,226 (3.8%) people were prescribed SGLT-2is as an add-on to their diuretic prescription. People in the highest eGFR category (≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m²) were more likely to be prescribed SGLT-2is than those in eGFR lower categories. Overweight (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.841–2.274) and obese people (OR 3.84, 95% CI 3.472–4.250) were also more likely to be prescribed these medications, whilst use of diuretics (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.682–0.804) and heart failure (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.653–0.998) were associated with lower odds of being prescribed SGLT-2is.

Conclusions

Prescribing patterns of SGLT-2is for glucose lowering in T2DM in primary care generally concur with licenced indications according to recommended renal thresholds. A small percentage of people with heart failure were prescribed SGLT-2is for T2DM. An updated analysis is merited should UK National Institute for Health Care and Excellence prescribing guidelines for T2DM be revised to incorporate new data on the benefits for those with reduced renal function or with heart failure.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-021-01316-4.

Impact of SGLT2 Inhibitors on Heart Failure: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Effects

Heart failure (HF) affects up to over 20% of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), even more in the elderly. Although, in T2DM, both hyperglycemia and the proinflammatory status induced by insulin resistance are crucial in cardiac function impairment, SGLT2i cardioprotective mechanisms against HF are several. In particular, these beneficial effects seem attributable to the significant reduction of intracellular sodium levels, well-known to exert a cardioprotective role in the prevention of oxidative stress and consequent cardiomyocyte death. From a molecular perspective, patients’ exposure to gliflozins’ treatment mimics nutrient and oxygen deprivation, with consequent autophagy stimulation. This allows to maintain the cellular homeostasis through different degradative pathways. Thus, since their introduction in the clinical practice, the hypotheses on SGLT2i mechanisms of action have changed: from simple glycosuric drugs, with consequent glucose lowering, erythropoiesis enhancing and ketogenesis stimulating, to intracellular sodium-lowering molecules. This provides their consequent cardioprotective effect, which justifies its significant reduction in CV events, especially in populations at higher risk. Finally, the updated clinical evidence of SGLT2i benefits on HF was summarized. Thus, this review aimed to analyze the cardioprotective mechanisms of sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in patients with HF, as well as their clinical impact on cardiovascular events.

Schulte D, Hollstein T, Böhm R, Cascorbi I, Laudes M. Gliflozins for the Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure and Renal Failure in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Gliflozins are effective drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They inhibit sodium glucose cotransporter 2 in the proximal renal tubule, leading to increased glucose excretion. On the basis of findings from relevant studies, gliflozins are also increasingly used in clinical practice to treat congestive heart failure and renal failure.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved from a selective literature search in PubMed and GoogleScholar.

RESULTS

Cardiovascular safety studies revealed early on that gliflozins can lower the hospitalization rate of patients suffering from congestive heart failure with a reduced leftventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF). They also showed favorable effects on multiple renal endpoints. In recent years, studies such as DAPA-HF and CREDENCE have further documented the benefit of gliflozins in the treatment of congestive heart failure and renal failure in patients with type 2 diabetes, and gliflozins have accordingly been incorporated into the pertinent guidelines. In the recently published EMPEROR-Reduced trial, empagliflozin was found to significantly lower the frequency of a combined cardiovascular endpoint in patients with HFrEF (19.4 % versus 24.7%; hazard ratio [HR] 0.75; 95% confidence interval [0.65; 0.86]; number needed to treat [NNT] 19, p <0.001). In the DAPA-CKD trial, which was also recently published, dapagliflozin was found to significantly lower the frequency of a combined renal endpoint (9.2% versus 14.5%; HR 0.61 [0.51; 0.72]; NNT 19; p <0.001).

CONCLUSION

On the basis of findings from specific studies, gliflozins will henceforth be a major class of drug for the treatment of HFrEF and renal failure, independently of the presence of type 2 diabetes.

Efficacy and safety of Combination Therapy with Sodium-glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors and Renin-Angiotensin System Blockers in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to evaluate the efficiency and safety of combination therapy with SGLT2 inhibitors and RAS blockers, such as ACEI/ARB, in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library from their inception to May 2020. Two authors independently performed study selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction. The quality and risk of bias were assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Statistical heterogeneity was qualified by the I-squared statistics.

RESULTS

Seven studies including 1757 patients were analyzed. Compared with ACEI/ARB alone, combination therapy with SGLT2 inhibitors and ACEI/ARB produced reduction in SBP (WMD -3.84 mmHg), DBP (WMD -1.06 mmHg), 24 h ambulatory SBP (WMD -4.59 mmHg), 24 h ambulatory DBP (WMD -2.08 mmHg), UACR(WMD -29.70%), eGFR (WMD -3.46 mL/min per 1·73 m2), HbA1c (SMD -0.48), FPG (SMD -0.28), uric acid (SMD -0.35), and body weight (SMD -0.29). The risk of hypoglycemia with combination therapy was higher than the control group (RR 1.37). As for the risk of total AEs, genital infection and urinary tract infection, no significant difference was revealed.

CONCLUSION

Compared with ACEI/ARB alone, the combination therapy with SGLT2 inhibitors and ACEI/ARB in T2DM was effective and well-tolerated, and could achieve additional effects, including better control of blood pressure, improvement of renal outcomes, alleviation of long-term renal function, and decrease of blood glucose and body weight. The combination therapy showed an increased risk of hypoglycemia.

Management of Diabetes During a Dual Pandemic

The dual pandemics of coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) and diabetes among patients are associated with 2- to 3-times higher intensive care admissions and higher mortality rates. Whether sheltering at home, quarantined with a positive COVID-19 test, or hospitalized, the person living with diabetes needs special considerations for successful management. Having diabetes and being COVID-19-positive increases the risk of poor outcomes and death. Providers need to give anticipatory pharmacologic guidance to patients with diabetes during COVID-19 lockdown. Patients with diabetes need to be more observant than others and to use self-protective actions. This review (1) discusses the clinical observations of COVID-19, diabetes and underlying mechanisms, (2) describes special considerations in caring for patients with diabetes in a COVID-19 environment, and (3) reviews clinical implications for the health care provider. This review highlights current evidenced-based knowledge. Additional research regarding clinical management is warranted.

A Case Report: Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis Presenting as Chest Pain in a Patient on a Low Carbohydrate Diet

INTRODUCTION

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 [SGLT2] inhibitors reduce cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with diabetes, particularly patients with established cardiovascular disease. Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis [euDKA], a complication of SGLT2 therapy, can be exacerbated by a low carbohydrate diet.

CASE REPORT

A 61-year-old man with a history of type 2 diabetes, taking an SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin 10 mg orally daily, presented to the emergency room with a 2-day history of nausea and chest pain. A week prior to presentation, he had started a ketogenic diet. He was initially admitted with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. On initial assessment in the emergency room, his cardiac enzymes were normal and there were no ischemic changes in his ECG. As there was concern for unstable angina, he underwent cardiac catheterization, which showed a known total occlusion with collaterals and arteries with a non-obstructive disease without any evidence of acute plaque rupture. His baseline laboratory assessments revealed an elevated anion gap of 17, increased urinary and plasma ketones, and metabolic acidosis. His plasma glucose level was 84 mg/dL. The diagnosis of euDKA was made, and treatment with intravenous fluids and insulin was initiated. His chest pain and nausea subsequently resolved.

CONCLUSION

We present a case of euDKA triggered by a ketogenic diet while on SGLT2 inhibitor therapy presenting as chest pain. The recognition of euDKA is important in the context of increased SGLT2 use for the management of cardiovascular risk for patients with diabetes.

SGLT2 Inhibitors: Slowing of Chronic Kidney Disease Progression in Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a topic of increasing concern among clinicians involved in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is a progressive and costly complication associated with increased risk of adverse cardiovascular (CV) and renal outcomes and mortality. Ongoing monitoring of the estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) rate alongside the urine albumin:creatinine ratio (ACR) is recommended during regular T2DM reviews to enable a prompt DKD diagnosis or to assess disease progression, providing an understanding of adverse risk for each individual. Many people with DKD will progress to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT), typically haemodialysis or kidney transplantation. A range of lifestyle and pharmacological interventions is recommended to help lower CV risk, slow the advancement of DKD and prevent or delay the need for RRT. Emerging evidence concerning sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) agents suggests a role for these medicines in slowing eGFR decline, enabling regression of albuminuria and reducing progression to ESKD. Improvements in renal end points observed in SGLT2i CV outcome trials (CVOTs) highlighted the possible impact of these agents in the management of DKD. Data from the canagliflozin CREDENCE trial (Canagliflozin and Renal Events in Diabetes with Established Nephropathy Clinical Evaluation) have since demonstrated the effectiveness of this medicine in reducing the risk of kidney failure and CV events in a population comprising individuals with T2DM and renal disease. CREDENCE was the first SGLT2i study to examine renal outcomes as the primary end point. Real-world studies have reaffirmed these outcomes in routine clinical practice. This article summarises the evidence regarding the use of SGLT2i medicines in slowing the progression of DKD and examines the possible mechanisms underpinning the renoprotective effects of these agents. The relevant national and international guidance for monitoring and treatment of DKD is also highlighted to help clinicians working to support this vulnerable group.

Does Renal Function or Heart Failure Diagnosis Affect Primary Care Prescribing for Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes?

INTRODUCTION

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a unique class of drugs currently used in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). There are emerging data from cardiovascular outcome trials confirming renal and heart failure benefits of these drugs independent of glucose lowering. By contrast, the current licencing indications of these drugs are mainly limited to their glucose-lowering effects, and not to renal or heart failure benefits. It is therefore timely to ascertain whether the presence of these clinical conditions may influence prescribing choices for patients with T2D. Our aims are to report prescribing of SGLT2is in people with T2D according to their renal function and presence of heart failure. Co-prescribing with diuretics will also be explored.

METHODS

We will perform a cross-sectional analysis of people with T2D in the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) Research and Surveillance Centre (RSC) network. The RCGP RSC includes more than 1500 volunteer practices throughout England and parts of Wales, and a representative sample of over 10 million patients. The proportion of adults with T2D ever prescribed an SGLT2i will be determined. Within this cohort, we will calculate the percentage of SGLT2is prescribed according to renal function, and the proportion of prescriptions in people with co-morbid heart failure, stratified by body mass index categories. The percentage of SGLT2is prescribed as an add-on to a diuretic or following discontinuation of prescribing for a diuretic will also be reported. Multilevel logistic regression will be performed to explore the association between heart failure and renal function, and propensity to prescribe SGLT2is.

PLANNED OUTPUTS

The study findings will be submitted to a primary care/diabetes-focused conference, and for publication in a peer reviewed journal.

Prevention and management of COVID-19 among patients with diabetes: an appraisal of the literature

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged as one of the greatest challenges faced by humankind in the recent past. People with diabetes and related comorbidities are at increased risk of its complications and of COVID-19-related death. Older age, multi-morbidity, hyperglycaemia, cardiac injury and severe inflammatory response are predictors of poor outcome. The complex interplay between COVID-19, diabetes and the effects of related therapies is being explored. Most patients experience a mild illness with COVID-19, while people with diabetes are at increased risk of severe disease. Optimising glycaemic control and adopting measures to prevent disease spread are critical aspects. The management of mild disease is supportive, while very many immunomodulatory and antiviral therapies are being investigated for the treatment of severe disease. Several of these agents have specific considerations for use in people with diabetes. Since mass population lockdowns are considered a key step in controlling disease spread, it follows that, in addition to the direct vulnerability to severe COVID-19, people with diabetes can be affected by limited access to healthcare, insulin, other medications and blood glucose monitoring equipment. Measures to prevent disease spread at the individual and community level are the key to mitigating the rapidly escalating pandemic, while agents for chemoprophylaxis and vaccines are being explored. People with diabetes should be recognised as a vulnerable group for complicated disease and are at risk during times of disturbed social systems. Strategies are needed to safeguard the health of patients with diabetes during the pandemic. This review summarises the current knowledge and perceived challenges for prevention and management of COVID-19 in people with diabetes.

Licogliflozin, a Novel SGLT1 and 2 Inhibitor: Body Weight Effects in a Randomized Trial in Adults with Overweight or Obesity

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore the dose response of licogliflozin, a dual inhibitor of sodium/glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) and 2 (SGLT2), by evaluating change in body weight in adults with overweight or obesity.

METHODS

This dose-response analysis evaluated change in body weight following 24 weeks with four once-daily and twice-daily licogliflozin doses (2.5-150 mg) versus placebo (primary end point). A further 24-week analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of two once-daily licogliflozin doses in maintaining initial weight reduction.

RESULTS

Licogliflozin once daily or twice daily produced a significant dose-response signal for weight loss versus placebo (P < 0.0001). However, mean adjusted percent changes in body weight after 24 weeks were modest, ranging from -0.45% to -3.83% (in the 50 mg twice daily group [95% CI: -5.26% to -2.48%]; n = 75). Responder analysis of ≥ 5% weight loss at week 24 revealed significant differences versus placebo, which were most pronounced with highest doses of 50 mg twice daily (45.3%) and 150 mg once daily (42.9%) (both P < 0.01). While weight loss was greater at higher doses, gastrointestinal adverse events were also more frequent. The 50-mg once-daily dose had perhaps the best balance between efficacy and tolerability.

CONCLUSIONS

Licogliflozin produced significant reductions in body weight versus placebo. However, the magnitude of weight reduction was modest.

Investigation and Management of Stool Frequency and Consistency Associated With SGLT1 Inhibition by Reducing Dietary Carbohydrate: A Randomized Trial

Treatment with licogliflozin, a dual sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT)1/2-inhibitor, is associated with increased stool frequency and loose stools, attributed to SGLT1 inhibition. To investigate the effect of carbohydrate content and supplements on licogliflozin-induced stools, a randomized, open-label, two-part (N = 24/part), three-period crossover study was carried out in overweight or obese adults. Significantly higher (P < 0.01) change from baseline in 3-day total number of bowel movements was observed following 3 days of licogliflozin treatment (50 mg q.d.) together with a 50% carbohydrate meal compared with a 25% and 0% carbohydrate meal. The number of stools with Bristol Stool Chart score of 6 or 7 was also significantly lower following a 0% carbohydrate meal. Supplementation with psyllium 6 g or calcium carbonate 1 g had no effect on stool changes following treatment. Licogliflozin was generally safe and well-tolerated. Loose stool associated with licogliflozin treatment and ingestion of meals can be managed by reducing the carbohydrate content of meals taken with licogliflozin.

Effects of the dual sodium-glucose linked transporter inhibitor, licogliflozin vs placebo or empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure

Aims

Explore the efficacy, safety and tolerability of the dual sodium–glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 1 and 2 inhibitor, licogliflozin in patients with type‐2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and heart failure.

Methods

This multicentre, parallel‐group phase IIA study randomized 125 patients with T2DM and heart failure (New York Heart Association II–IV; plasma N‐terminal pro b‐type natriuretic peptide [NT‐proBNP] >300 pg/mL) to licogliflozin (2.5 mg, 10 mg, 50 mg) taken at bedtime, empagliflozin (25 mg) or placebo (44 patients completed the study). The primary endpoint was change from baseline in NT‐proBNP after 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints included change from baseline in glycated haemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, weight, blood pressure, fasting lipid profile, high‐sensitivity c‐reactive protein, and safety and tolerability.

Results

Licogliflozin 10 mg for 12 weeks significantly reduced NT‐proBNP vs placebo (Geometric mean ratio 0.56 [95% confidence interval: 0.33, 0.95], P = .033). A trend was observed with 50 mg licogliflozin (0.64 [95% confidence interval: 0.40, 1.03], P = .064), with no difference between licogliflozin and empagliflozin. The largest numerical decreases in glycated haemoglobin were with licogliflozin 50 mg (−0.58 ± 0.34%) and empagliflozin (−0.44 ± 1.18%) vs placebo (−0.04 ± 0.91%). The reduction in body weight was similar with licogliflozin 50 mg (−2.15 ± 2.40 kg) and empagliflozin (−2.25 ± 1.89 kg). A numerical reduction in systolic blood pressure was seen with licogliflozin 50 mg (−9.54 ± 16.88 mmHg) and empagliflozin (−6.98 ± 15.03 mmHg) vs placebo (−2.85 ± 11.97 mmHg). Adverse events (AEs) were mild, including hypotension (6.5%), hypoglycaemia (8.1%) and inadequate diabetes control (1.6%). The incidence of diarrhoea (4.9%) was lower than previously reported.

Conclusion

The reduction in NT‐proBNP with licogliflozin suggests a potential benefit of SGLT1 and 2 inhibition in patients with T2DM and heart failure.

Obesity medications in development

Introduction: Obesity is compounded by a neurobiology that is resistant to weight loss. Therefore, the development of pharmacotherapies to address the pathology underlying the dysregulation of energy homeostasis is critical.Areas covered: This review examines selected clinical trial evidence for the pharmacologic treatment of obesity and provides an expert opinion on anti-obesity drug development. The article includes the outcomes of anti-obesity medications that have been evaluated in clinical trials but have not yet received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The mechanisms of action of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and co-agonists, diabetes medications being investigated for weight loss, and medications acting on the central nervous system as well as peripherally are reviewed. A search was conducted on PubMed using the terms 'Obesity AND Medications' restricted to clinical trials reported in English. Using similar terms, a search was also conducted on ClinicalTrials.gov.Expert opinion: The goal of anti-obesity therapy is finding compounds that are effective and have minimal side effects. Combining medications targeting more than one of the redundant mechanisms driving obesity increases efficacy. However, targeting peripheral mechanisms to overcome the trickle-down effects of centrally acting drugs may be the key to success in treating obesity.

Safety and effectiveness of tofogliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in real-world practice: Results of 12-month interim analysis of a long-term post-marketing surveillance study (J-STEP/LT)

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Due to the paucity of tofogliflozin data, we assessed the safety and effectiveness of tofogliflozin among Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the clinical setting, stratifying the patients by age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) rate and body mass index. We report the results of a 12-month interim analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a 3-year prospective, observational and multicenter post-marketing study (Japanese Study of tofogliflozin with type 2 diabetes mellitus Patients/Long Term).

RESULTS

Out of 6,897 patients enrolled, the safety and effectiveness analysis populations consisted of 6,712 and 6,449 patients, respectively. During 12 months, adverse drug reactions and their incidence were 9.12 and 0.88%, respectively. The incidence of hypoglycemia was 0.67%. Polyuria/pollakiuria occurred more frequently in patients aged ≥65 years than in patients aged <65 years. Women experienced higher rates of urinary tract and genital infection than men. The lowest eGFR subgroup experienced maximum volume depletion-related events. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders occurred in 0.55% of the patients. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and bodyweight significantly decreased by -0.76% and -2.73 kg, respectively, from baseline to the last observation carried forward (P < 0.0001). Except for the lowest eGFR subgroup, other eGFR subgroups showed significantly decreased HbA1c values. All eGFR subgroups showed significantly decreased bodyweight, and all body mass index subgroups showed significantly decreased HbA1c and bodyweight.

CONCLUSIONS

Our interim 12-month data suggest that tofogliflozin could be used safely and effectively in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as tofogliflozin was well tolerated with low hypoglycemia risk, and significantly improved HbA1c and bodyweight.

Concurrent Use of Teneligliptin and Canagliflozin Improves Glycemic Control with Beneficial Effects on Plasma Glucagon and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1: A Single-Arm Study

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the mechanisms of the glucose-lowering effects of teneligliptin and canagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, by monitoring several gastrointestinal peptides using the most appropriate measuring methods during multiple meal tolerance tests (MTTs) and flash glucose monitoring.

METHODS

Twelve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in the 14-day study. Subjects were treated with teneligliptin 20 mg/day from day 4, followed by a combination tablet of teneligliptin 20 mg and canagliflozin 100 mg (T/C) per day from day 11. MTTs were conducted on days 3 (premedication; Pre), 10 (teneligliptin; T) and 13 (T/C) to evaluate plasma glucose, C-peptide, glucagon, active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), active gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), ghrelin and des-acyl ghrelin.

RESULTS

Plasma glucose was significantly decreased with the progress of treatment intervention, and C-peptide was significantly decreased in T/C compared to the others. Plasma postprandial glucagon was increased for 90 min from fasting in Pre, but only for 30 min in T and T/C. Plasma postprandial active GLP-1 was significantly increased in T compared to Pre, and that of T/C was significantly higher than T. Plasma postprandial active GIP was increased in T and T/C compared to Pre. Plasma ghrelin and des-acyl ghrelin levels did not change during the treatment.

CONCLUSION

Teneligliptin increased incretin hormones and suppressed postprandial glucagon secretion as expected. Concurrent use of canagliflozin and teneligliptin improved glycemic control without increasing postprandial glucagon secretion, and increased postprandial GLP-1 secretion and decreased the required amount of postprandial insulin secretion. The underlying mechanisms may involve canagliflozin's inhibitory activity against not only SGLT2 but also SGLT1.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

UMIN identifier, UMIN000030043.

FUNDING

Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation and a Grant for Clinical Research from Miyazaki University Hospital.

SGLT2 Inhibitors: Cardiovascular Benefits Beyond HbA1c-Translating Evidence into Practice

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart failure (HF), is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). CVD and T2DM share common risk factors for development and progression, and there is significant overlap between the conditions in terms of worsening outcomes. In assessing the cardiovascular (CV) safety profiles of anti-diabetic drugs, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) therapies have emerged with robust evidence for reducing the risk of adverse CVD outcomes in people with T2DM who have either established CVD or are at risk of developing CVD. A previous consensus document from the Improving Diabetes Steering Committee has examined the potential role of SGLT2is in T2DM management and considered the risk-benefit profile of the class and the appropriate place for these medicines within the T2DM pathway. This paper builds on these findings and presents practical guidance for maximising the pleiotropic benefits of this class of medicines in people with T2DM in terms of reducing adverse CVD outcomes. The Improving Diabetes Steering Committee aims to offer evidence-based practical guidance for the use of SGLT2i therapies in people with T2DM stratified by CVD risk. This is of particular importance currently because some treatment guidelines have not been updated to reflect recent evidence from cardiovascular outcomes trials (CVOTs) and real-world studies that complement the CVOTs. The Improving Diabetes Steering Committee seeks to support healthcare professionals (HCPs) in appropriate treatment selection for people with T2DM who are at risk of developing or have established CVD and examines the role of SGLT2i therapy for these people.Funding: Napp Pharmaceuticals Limited.

What Next After Metformin? Thinking Beyond Glycaemia: Are SGLT2 Inhibitors the Answer?

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes continues to increase, along with a proliferation of glucose-lowering treatment options. There is universal agreement in the clinical community for the use of metformin as the first-line glucose-lowering therapy for the majority of patients. However, controversy exists regarding the choice of second-line therapy once metformin is no longer effective. The most recent treatment consensus focuses on the presence of cardiovascular disease, heart failure or kidney disease as a determinant of therapy choice. The majority of patients in routine practice, however, do not fall into such categories. Heart failure and kidney disease represent significant clinical and cost considerations in patients with type 2 diabetes and have a close pathophysiological association. Recent data has illustrated that sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor therapy can reduce the burden of heart failure and the progression of renal disease across a wide range of patients including those with and without established disease, supported by an increased understanding of the mechanistic effects of these agents. Furthermore, there is growing evidence to illustrate the overall safety profile of this class of agents and support the benefit-risk profile of SGLT2 inhibitors as a preferred option following metformin monotherapy failure, with respect to both kidney disease progression and heart failure outcomes.

Glycaemic, weight, and blood pressure changes associated with early versus later treatment intensification with dapagliflozin in United Kingdom primary care patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

Early treatment intensification for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is often required to achieve glycaemic control and avoid longer-term complications. We assessed associations between early versus later dapagliflozin initiation with changes in glucose control, weight, and blood pressure using UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) data.

METHODS

People with T2DM aged ≥18 years, initiating dapagliflozin between November 2012 and August 2016 and with prior oral T2DM therapy (N = 3774), were included. The relationship between early (first intensification after metformin or sulfonylurea monotherapy) and later (second or higher-order intensification) dapagliflozin use and baseline changes in glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; ≥1.0% absolute reduction), weight (≥5.0% relative loss), and systolic blood pressure (SBP; ≥2 mmHg absolute reduction) after 6-12 months were assessed.

RESULTS

Overall, 25% of patients (951 of 3774) were early users and 75% (2823 of 3774) were later users. Later users were older, more likely to be men, and had longer disease duration. Early and later users had similar baseline mean HbA1c levels. For early versus later users, respectively, baseline-adjusted mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) reductions were 1.54% (-1.65, -1.44) versus 1.02% (-1.08, -0.97) in HbA1c, 3.31% (-4.37, -2.25) versus 4.06% (-5.05, -3.07) in weight, and 2.50 mm Hg (-3.89, -1.11) versus 2.84 mm Hg (-3.67, -2.01) in SBP. Early versus later use was associated with a greater likelihood of adjusted HbA1c reduction of ≥1% (odds ratio: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.15-2.45).

CONCLUSIONS

Glycaemic benefits were greater with early versus later dapagliflozin intensification. These results support broader and earlier dapagliflozin use.

Dapagliflozin: A Review in Type 2 Diabetes

Dapagliflozin (Forxiga®) is a highly potent, reversible and selective sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor indicated worldwide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). In the EU, oral dapagliflozin once daily is approved for use as monotherapy (in patients who are intolerant of metformin) and as add-on combination therapy (with other glucose-lowering agents, including insulin) for T2D when diet and exercise alone do not provide adequate glycaemic control. In numerous well-designed clinical studies and their extensions, dapagliflozin as monotherapy and combination therapy with other antihyperglycaemic agents provided effective glycaemic control and reduced bodyweight and blood pressure (BP) across a broad spectrum of patients. Dapagliflozin reduced the rate of cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), did not adversely affect major adverse CV events (MACE) and possibly reduced progression of renal disease relative to placebo in patients with established atherosclerotic CV disease (CVD) or multiple risk factors for CVD. Dapagliflozin was generally well tolerated, with a low risk of hypoglycaemia; diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), although rare, and genital infections were more common with dapagliflozin than placebo. Given its antihyperglycaemic, cardioprotective and possibly renoprotective properties and generally favourable tolerability profile, dapagliflozin provides an important option for the management of a broad patient population, regardless of the history of CVD.

Exploring the Experiences of Adults With Type 2 Diabetes on Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors

OBJECTIVE

Diet-related quality of life has not been explored previously in patients with type 2 diabetes using sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, the latest class of diabetes medications. In this study, we sought to describe the patient experience on SGLT-2 inhibitors and examine whether there have been improvements in dietary perception and satisfaction with these drugs.

METHODS

Adults ≥40 years of age with type 2 diabetes and using SGLT-2 inhibitors for at least 1 month were recruited to take part in one-time 1-on-1 interviews. An interpretive descriptive methodology was used. Data collection and analysis occurred concurrently and a constant comparative analysis was used.

RESULTS

An overall positive response to SGLT-2 inhibitor use was observed. Interviews revealed 3 themes: Recognizing, Reckoning and Realizing. In Recognizing, all patients reported a significant relationship with food that was typically negative and included feelings of food restriction and deprivation. Positive side effects of the drug in Reckoning included better glycemic control, weight loss and improved energy. Some participants were motivated in Realizing to pursue additional behavioural changes to improve their diabetes management.

CONCLUSIONS

An improved dietary-related quality of life was described by some participants. Although not all individuals were seen to move into the Realizing phase after initiating an SGLT-2 inhibitor, there appeared to be an opportunity to create a behaviour change after positive Reckoning experiences.

The effects of licogliflozin, a dual SGLT1/2 inhibitor, on body weight in obese patients with or without diabetes

BACKGROUND

There is an unmet need for a safer and more effective treatment for obesity. This study assessed the effects of licogliflozin, a dual inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT) 1/2, on body weight, metabolic parameters and incretin hormones in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or obesity.

METHODS

Patients with obesity (BMI, 35-50 kg/m² ) were enrolled into a 12-week study (N = 88; licogliflozin 150 mg q.d.). Patients with T2DM were enrolled into a second, two-part study, comprising a single-dose cross-over study (N = 12; 2.5 - 300 mg) and a 14-day dosing study (N = 30; 15 mg q.d). Primary endpoints included effects on body weight, effects on glucose, safety and tolerability. Secondary endpoints included urinary glucose excretion (UGE₂₄ ) and pharmacokinetics, while exploratory endpoints assessed the effects on incretin hormones (total GLP-1, PYY_3-36 , and GIP), insulin and glucagon.

RESULTS

Treatment with licogliflozin 150 mg q.d. for 12 weeks in patients with obesity significantly reduced body weight by 5.7% vs placebo (P < 0.001) and improved metabolic parameters such as significantly reduced postprandial glucose excursion (21%; P < 0.001), reduced insulin levels (80%; P < 0.001) and increased glucagon (59%; P < 0.001). In patients with T2DM, a single dose of licogliflozin 300 mg in the morning prior to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) remarkably reduced glucose excursion by 93% (P < 0.001; incremental AUC_0-4h ) and suppressed insulin by 90% (P < 0.01; incremental AUC_0-4h ). Treatment with licogliflozin 15 mg q.d. for 14 days reduced 24-hour average glucose levels by 26% (41 mg/dL; P < 0.001) and increased UGE₂₄ to 100 g (P < 0.001) in patients with T2DM. In addition, this treatment regimen significantly increased total GLP-1 by 54% (P < 0.001) and PYY_3-36 by 67% (P < 0.05) post OGTT vs placebo, while significantly reducing GIP levels by 53% (P < 0.001). Treatment with licogliflozin was generally safe and well tolerated. Diarrhea (increased numbers of loose stool) was the most common adverse event in all studies (90% with licogliflozin vs 25% with placebo in the 12-week study), while a lower incidence of flatulence, abdominal pain and abdominal distension (25%-43% with licogliflozin vs 9%-11% with placebo in the 12-week study) were among the other gastrointestinal events reported.

CONCLUSION

Licogliflozin treatment (1-84 days) leads to significant weight loss and favourable changes in a variety of metabolic parameters and incretin hormones. Dual inhibition of SGLT1/2 with licogliflozin in the gut and kidneys is an attractive strategy for treating obesity and diabetes.

Empagliflozin reduces blood pressure and uric acid in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The antidiabetic effect of empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has been explored in several trials. We performed this meta-analysis determining the effects of empagliflozin on blood pressure, uric acid, estimated glomerular filtration rate, blood lipids, blood glucose, and body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. We searched three electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central) for all published articles evaluating the effects of empagliflozin on blood glucose or blood pressure in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Total 5781 patients were included in 12 randomized controlled trials with a follow-up of 28 ± 22 weeks. Empagliflozin 10 or 25 mg reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, uric acid, hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, and body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (all p < 0.001). There were no differences for changes of estimated glomerular filtration rate between empagliflozin 10 or 25 mg and placebo in these patients (all p > 0.05). In conclusion, empagliflozin reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, uric acid, hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, and body weight. These data suggest the beneficial effects of empagliflozin on these cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Living with Type 2 Diabetes: Patient Commentary in Response to the Paper 'SGLT2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes Management: Key Evidence and Implications for Clinical Practice'

This article, co-authored by a patient living with type 2 diabetes and a diabetes specialist physician, discusses the patient's experience of living with type 2 diabetes, including their experience of diagnosis and self-management, education and adoption of SGLT2 inhibitors to treat the disease. The physician discusses the therapeutic challenges of SGLT2 inhibitors and the importance of education.

FUNDING

Napp Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.