Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin as an add-on to a sulfonylurea in Japanese patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes: results of the randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, phase III EMIT study

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on inflammatory biomarkers: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

To conduct a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on inflammatory biomarkers.

METHODS

Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched for RCTs investigating the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on inflammatory biomarkers, adipokine profiles and insulin sensitivity.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight RCTs were included (14 967 participants, 63.3% male, mean age 62 ± 8.6 years) with a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 16 (12-24) weeks. Meta-analysis showed that SGLT2 inhibitors significantly improved adiponectin, interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor receptor-1 (vs. placebo alone: standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.34 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.23, 0.45], mean difference [MD] -0.85 pg/mL [95% CI -1.32, -0.38], SMD -0.13 [95% CI -0.20, -0.06], respectively), leptin and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance index (vs.

CONTROL

SMD -0.20 [95% CI -0.33, -0.07], MD -0.83 [95% CI -1.32, -0.33], respectively). There were no significant changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), tumour necrosis factor-α, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, fibroblast growth factor-21 or monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis shows that SGLT2 inhibitors likely improve adipokine biomarkers and insulin sensitivity, but there is little evidence that SGLT2 inhibitors improve other inflammatory biomarkers including CRP.

Effect of ipragliflozin on liver enzymes in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is estimated to affect upto 70-80% of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Although several anti-hyperglycemic drugs have been shown to be effective in such patients, there remains an unmet need for newer drugs. The objective of this meta-analysis was to analyze the effect of ipragliflozin on aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels in patients with T2DM.

METHODS

A literature search on electronic databases was conducted to identify potential randomized clinical trials (RCT) as per predetermined study selection criteria. Mean difference (MD) was calculated using Cochrane review manager.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis, including 1349 subjects. Compared to the control group, ipragliflozin as a monotherapy showed a significant reduction in levels of ALT at week 12 (p = 0.02) and at week 24 (p = 0.007), GGT at week 12 (p < 0.00001). Ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy showed significant reduction in levels of AST at week 24 (p < 0.00001), ALT at week 12 (p = 0.002), ALT at week 24 (p < 0.00001), and GGT at week 24 (p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest the beneficial effects of ipragliflozin on liver enzymes. Further large-scale RCTs are required to confirm ipragliflozin's role for liver-related conditions in T2DM.

Synthetic approaches and clinical application of small-molecule inhibitors of sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of small-molecule drugs that have gained significant attention in recent years for their potential clinical applications in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These inhibitors function by obstructing the kidneys' ability to reabsorb glucose, resulting in a rise in the excretion of glucose in urine (UGE) and subsequently lowering blood glucose levels. Several SGLT2 inhibitors, such as Dapagliflozin, Canagliflozin, and Empagliflozin, have been approved by regulatory authorities and are currently available for clinical use. These inhibitors have shown notable enhancements in managing blood sugar levels, reducing body weight, and lowering blood pressure in individuals with T2DM. Additionally, they have exhibited potential advantages in decreasing the likelihood of cardiovascular incidents and renal complications among this group of patients. This review article focuses on the synthesis and clinical application of small-molecule SGLT2 inhibitors, which have provided a new therapeutic approach for the management of T2DM.

A systematic review of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and renal profiles among Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the available literature and comprehensively appraise the renal profiles of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

The electronic databases MEDLINE, Ichushi-web, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for studies without language restrictions from their inception until 20 July 2023 and CENTRAL until 21 September 2021. Studies were included if they were double-masked randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (1) including Japanese patients with T2DM aged > 18 years who received SGLT2i or a placebo, (2) reporting at least one renal outcome of serum creatinine or the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and (3) with a follow-up of > 12 weeks. Cross-over and open label trials were excluded. The risk of bias based on the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2) was appraised. We computed the weighed mean difference with 95%CI for each renal outcome and used a random-effects model (inverse variance method).

RESULTS

We ultimately retrieved 13 RCTs including 2687 individuals in our review. The durations of RCTs ranged between 12 and 104 weeks. Only one trial had a longer duration of more than one year. Ten out of 13 RCTs reported serum creatinine, while nine included eGFR. Serum creatinine and eGFR were slightly worse with SGLT2i than with a placebo [mean difference 0.01 (95%CI 0.00 to 0.02) mg/dL, p = 0.002, mean difference - 1.30 (95%CI -2.23 to -0.37) mL/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.006, respectively]. Merged results revealed insignificant heterogeneity (I2 < 30%).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that SGLT2i slightly worsens serum creatinine and eGFR in Japanese patients with T2DM. However, since the durations of most RCTs were short, the effects of eGFR in particular may be transient. Further evidence is needed from rigorous studies that focus on renal outcomes with a longer duration to confirm the present results.

Association of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors with Osteomyelitis and Other Lower Limb Safety Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

Our aim was to evaluate osteomyelitis and other major lower limb safety outcomes (i.e., peripheral artery disease or PAD, ulcers, atraumatic fractures, amputations, symmetric polyneuropathy, and infections) in patients affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and treated with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-is). We thus performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SGLT2-is at approved doses for T2DM with a placebo or standard of care. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched through August 2022. Separate intention-to-treat analyses were implemented for each molecule to calculate Mantel-Haenszel risk ratios (RR_MH) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) through a random-effects model. We processed data from 42 RCTs for a total of 29,491 and 23,052 patients, respectively assigned to SGLT2-i and comparator groups. SGLT2-is showed a pooled neutral effect on osteomyelitis, PAD, fractures, and symmetric polyneuropathy, whereas slightly deleterious sway on ulcers (RR_MH 1.39 [1.01-1.91]), amputations (RR_MH 1.27 [1.04-1.55]), and infections (RR_MH 1.20 [1.02-1.40]). In conclusion, SGLT2-is appear to not significantly interfere with the onset of osteomyelitis, PAD, lower limb fractures, or symmetric polyneuropathy, even though the number of these events proved consistently higher in the investigational groups; otherwise, local ulcers, amputations, and overall infections may be favoured by their employment. This study is registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF).

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on biomarkers of inflammation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Aims: Inflammatory biomarkers may play vital roles in the pathophysiology of diabetes and diabetic cardiorenal complications. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have a potential cardiovascular and renal protective effect in type 2 diabetes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on biomarkers of inflammation in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched for eligible RCTs of adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with no time limit (updated to 12 October 2022). The biomarkers selected included C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, leptin, adiponectin, ferritin, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Data were analyzed using a random-effect model in Review Manager 5.4. Results: Thirty-four studies with 6,261 patients (68.6% male) were eligible for this meta-analysis. The mean age of the participants was 62.57(±11.13) years old, and the median treatment duration length with follow-up was 24 weeks. Generally, the included trials were of good methodological quality. The meta-analysis revealed that ferritin levels were significantly reduced in SGLT2 inhibitor treatment groups versus placebo or standard diabetes therapies (SMD: -1.21; 95% CI: -1.91, -0.52, p < 0.001). The effects of CRP (SMD: 0.25; 95% CI: -0.47, -0.03, p = 0.02) and leptin (SMD: -0.22; 95% CI: -0.43, -0.01, p = 0.04) were reduced, and the effects of adiponectin were improved (SMD: 0.28; 95% CI: 0.15, 0.41, p < 0.001) in placebo-controlled studies. PAI-1 levels were significantly reduced in studies controlled for diabetes therapies (SMD: -0.38; 95% CI: -0.61, -0.15, p = 0.001). Conclusion: This analysis provides strong evidence supporting anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT2 inhibitors in T2D subjects. The mechanisms and possible targets for the inflammation reducing and cardiorenal protective properties of SGLT2 inhibitors remain to be explored.

Real-world evidence for long-term safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in treatment-naïve versus non-naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: subgroup analysis of a 3-year post-marketing surveillance study (STELLA-LONG TERM)

Background

STELLA-LONG TERM was a 3-year post-marketing surveillance study that evaluated the long-term safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This subgroup analysis examined the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in treatment-naïve and non-naïve patients.

Materials and methods

Patients were stratified into two subgroups: treatment-naïve (patients who had not received any antidiabetic drugs before starting ipragliflozin monotherapy) and non-naïve (all other patients). Patients who had added or switched antidiabetic drugs during follow-up were excluded from the analysis from that point. The incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and changes from baseline in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and laboratory parameters were assessed.

Results

Of the 11,051 patients in the safety analysis set, 1980 patients (17.92%) were treatment-naïve and 9071 (82.08%) were non-naïve. In the safety analysis set, treatment-naïve patients reported significantly lower incidences of ADRs (10.81% vs 20.87%; p < 0.001) and serious ADRs (0.86% vs 2.09%; p < 0.001) compared with non-naïve patients, as well as significantly lower incidences of polyuria/pollakiuria, volume depletion-related events, skin complications and renal disorders. In the effectiveness analysis, sustained and significant reductions from baseline to 36 months were observed in HbA1c, FPG and body weight in both treatment-naïve and non-naïve patients (all p < 0.001 vs baseline).

Conclusions

Over 3 years, ipragliflozin was better tolerated in treatment-naive than in non-naive Japanese patients with T2DM and had similar efficacy in these populations. Therefore, ipragliflozin is a useful first-line treatment option for patients with T2DM.

Clinical trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02479399.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13340-021-00501-w.

Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on sitagliptin

AIMS

To assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily added to sitagliptin 50 mg once daily monotherapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of two clinical trials are reported. In both trials, patients had glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of 7.0% to 10.0% on sitagliptin 50 mg once daily 2 weeks prior to addition of ipragliflozin or placebo. In one trial (Trial 843), patients were randomized 1:1 to addition of blinded ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily (n = 73) or placebo (n = 70) for 24 weeks; the primary endpoint was efficacy (change in HbA1c at Week 24). In the other trial (Trial 849), open-label ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily was added for 52 weeks (n = 77); the primary objective was to assess safety/tolerability.

RESULTS

In Trial 843, baseline characteristics were similar between groups (mean age 60.5 years, HbA1c 8.0%); after 24 weeks, adding ipragliflozin provided significantly greater reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo: least squares mean difference -0.77% (95% confidence interval -0.98, -0.57; P <0.001). In Trial 843, the incidences of adverse events (AEs) overall and prespecified AEs of clinical interest (symptomatic hypoglycaemia, urinary tract infection, genital infection, hypovolaemia, and polyuria/pollakiuria) were similar between groups. In Trial 849, specific AEs with incidence ≥5% were nasopharyngitis, pollakiuria, back pain, thirst, constipation, influenza and arthralgia; drug-related AEs reported in ≥2 patients were pollakiuria, thirst and constipation.

CONCLUSIONS

Ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily added on to sitagliptin 50 mg once daily monotherapy provided significant improvement in glycaemic control and was generally well tolerated in Japanese patients with T2D. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02577003, NCT02564211.

Profile of Ipragliflozin, an Oral SGLT-2 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: The Evidence to Date

Background

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are a novel class of pharmacotherapeutics for type 2 diabetes management that work by reducing renal reabsorption of glucose. Ipragliflozin is a potent, selective SGLT-2 inhibitor used for the management of type 2 diabetes.

Objective

The primary aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin for the management of type 2 diabetes. We also review the discovery, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profile of ipragliflozin.

Methods

To inform our review, we searched MEDLINE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Embase to identify relevant papers to ipragliflozin use in type 2 diabetes. Clinical trial registries were also searched.

Results

Findings from randomized clinical trials demonstrate that compared to placebo, ipragliflozin significantly reduces glucose as measured via Hemoglobin A1c and fasting plasma glucose levels. Ipragliflozin is also associated with weight reduction and an improvement in some, but not all, cardiovascular risk markers. Ipragliflozin has a favourable safety profile with a low risk of hypoglycemia and the rates of common adverse events are not significantly different than placebo. Limited data are available to assess rare and long-term adverse effects.

Conclusion

Current evidence shows that ipragliflozin is an effective therapeutic option for the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes. However, no cardiovascular outcome trials have been conducted to date. Real-world observational studies are still needed to accurately capture any possible rare or long-term adverse events.

A literature review and meta-analysis of safety profiles of SGLT2 inhibitors in Japanese patients with diabetes mellitus

The safety profiles of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may depend on races/ethnicities. We aimed to assess the safety profiles of SGLT2 inhibitors in Japanese patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). The electronic databases MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and Ichushi-web were searched for studies with no language restriction from their inception to August 2019. Trials were included in the analysis if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors with a placebo in Japanese patients with DM > 18 years and reporting HbA1c and at least 1 adverse event. We calculated risk ratios with 95% CIs and used a random-effects model. Of the 22 RCTs included in our review, only 1 included patients with type 1 DM. The durations of RCTs ranged between 4 and 24 weeks. In comparison with a placebo, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with similar risks of hypoglycemia, urinary tract infection, genital infection, hypovolemia, and fracture. The outcomes of treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors among Japanese patients with DM suggest favorable safety profiles. However, further evidence from studies with a longer duration, involving more diverse populations, such as patients with different types of DM, or including individual SGLT2 inhibitors is needed to resolve the limitations of the present study.

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on ipragliflozin

AIMS

To investigate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Japanese patients with T2D and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0% to 10.0% while treated with ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily were randomized 1:1 to additional treatment with sitagliptin 50 mg once daily (N = 70) or matching placebo (N = 71) for 24 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was change in HbA1c at Week 24. Secondary efficacy endpoints were changes in 2-hour post-meal glucose (PMG), total PMG 0- to 2-hour area under the curve (AUC_0-2h ), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG).

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups (mean age 55.5 years, mean baseline HbA1c 8.0%). After 24 weeks, the addition of sitagliptin provided significantly greater reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo (least squares [LS] mean difference -0.83% [95% confidence interval -1.05, -0.62]; P <0.001). Significant reductions were also observed in all secondary endpoints: LS mean differences from placebo in changes in 2-hour PMG, total PMG AUC_0-2h , and FPG were -42.5 mg/dL, -67.0 mg·h/dL and -11.2 mg/dL, respectively (all P <0.001). The incidence of adverse events (AEs) overall and incidence of predefined AEs of clinical interest (symptomatic hypoglycaemia, urinary tract infection, genital infection, hypovolaemia and polyuria/pollakiuria) were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In Japanese patients with T2D, sitagliptin 50 mg once daily added to ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily monotherapy provided significant improvement in glycaemic control and was generally well tolerated. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02577016.

Safety and Effectiveness of Ipragliflozin in Elderly Versus Non-elderly Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: Subgroup Analysis of STELLA-LONG TERM

INTRODUCTION

STELLA-LONG TERM is a post-marketing surveillance study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Patients were classified by age at ipragliflozin initiation (< 65 and ≥ 65 years), and elderly patients were subclassified by baseline body mass index (BMI) < 25.0 or ≥ 25.0 kg/m². Incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and effectiveness were evaluated over 3 years.

RESULTS

Among 11,051 patients, 7894 (71.4%) were aged < 65 years and 3157 (28.6%) ≥ 65 years. The 3-year ADR incidence was similar in patients aged ≥ 65 (19.04%) and < 65 years (19.36%; P = 0.701). Serious ADRs were more frequent in the subgroup ≥ 65 years (2.79% vs 1.55%; P < 0.001). In terms of ADRs of special interest, a significantly greater proportion of elderly patients had skin complications (2.22% vs 1.62%, P = 0.033), renal disorders (2.28% vs 1.51%, P = 0.005), hypoglycemia (0.73% vs 0.43%, P = 0.048), or malignant tumors (1.01% vs 0.24%, P < 0.001), while the incidence of polyuria/pollakiuria (5.97% vs 4.47%, P = 0.002) and hepatic disorders (1.39% vs 0.73%, P = 0.004) was significantly higher in non-elderly than elderly patients. In patients aged ≥ 65 years, the incidence of ADRs was higher when baseline BMI was ≥ 25 kg/m² versus < 25 kg/m² (24.40% vs 17.68%; P < 0.001). Glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, and body weight significantly decreased from baseline in both age groups at each evaluation up to 3 years (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Ipragliflozin was well tolerated and effective for 3 years in routine clinical use in elderly and non-elderly patients, although elderly patients had a higher rate of serious ADRs. No new safety concerns were identified.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02479399.

Systematic review and meta-analysis: SGLT2 inhibitors, blood pressure and cardiovascular outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Clinical trials suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes, however the mechanism is unclear. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that blood pressure reduction is one potential mechanism underlying the observed improvements in cardiovascular outcomes with SGLT2 inhibitors.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (inception-June 2019) for randomized controlled trials that reported the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors compared with placebo on cardiovascular outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed study quality. Random effects meta-analyses, stratified meta-analyses and meta-regressions were conducted to evaluate the association between blood pressure reduction in SGLT2 inhibitor treated patients and cardiovascular outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 11,232 articles identified, 40 articles (n = 54,279 participants) were included. The relative risk of cardiovascular mortality was reduced by 18% with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors compared with placebo (RR 0.82; 95%CI 0.74, 0.91, I2 = 0.0%). Meta-regression analysis revealed no detectable difference in cardiovascular mortality (RR 0.93; 95%CI 0.88, 1.13, p = 0.483), 3-point major adverse cardiovascular events (p = 0.839) or congestive heart failure hospitalizations (p = 0.844) with change in mean systolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular events are reduced in participants with type 2 diabetes treated with SGLT2 inhibitors compared with placebo. There was no significant relationship between the risk of developing adverse cardiovascular events and blood pressure reduction with SGLT2 inhibitors. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that blood pressure reduction is a significant contributor to the cardiovascular benefits observed.

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibition and ocular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are effective for the treatment of macrovascular complications and nephropathy in type 2 diabetes, but effects on microvascular eye outcomes are unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials to evaluate the effect of SGLT2 inhibition on total ocular events and retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. We searched MEDLINE and Embase for the period from database inception date to October 11, 2019. Two reviewers working independently extracted relevant data. Random-effects models with inverse variance weighting were selected to estimate summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We included nine studies, involving 39 982 patients with a mean follow-up of 2.8 years. There were 1414 total ocular events, of which 624 were retinopathy events. SGLT2 inhibition was not associated with a change in the risk of total ocular events (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.85, 1.11) or retinopathy (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.84, 1.16), with consistent effects across studies (P for heterogeneity = 0.35 and 0.45, respectively). The effects of SGLT2 inhibition on eye disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes are probably null, although the available data cannot exclude small to moderate benefits or harms.

Real-World Evidence for Long-Term Safety and Effectiveness of Ipragliflozin in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: final Results of a 3-Year Post-Marketing Surveillance Study (STELLA-LONG TERM)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in real-world clinical practice in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This post-marketing surveillance study (STELLA-LONG TERM) included Japanese patients newly initiated on ipragliflozin between 17 July 2014 and 16 October 2015 (data lock: 30 September 2019). Survey items included demographics, treatments, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), vital signs, and laboratory variables.

RESULTS

Of 11,424 registered patients, safety and efficacy analysis sets comprised of 11,051 and 8,763 patients, respectively. ADRs occurred in 2,129 patients (19.27%) and serious ADRs occurred in 210 patients (1.90%). Renal and urinary disorders (n = 739, 6.69%), particularly polyuria/pollakiuria (n = 612, 5.54%) and volume depletion-events, including dehydration (n = 243, 2.20%), comprised the most common ADRs. Mean (SD) change in hemoglobin A1c (─0.66 [1.25] %), fasting plasma glucose (─28.8 [50.1] mg/dL) and body weight (─3.33 [4.32] kg) from baseline to 36 months were statistically significant (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The safety profile of long-term ipragliflozin treatment in routine clinical practice is consistent with previously reported interim data at 12 or 24 months and pre-approval clinical trials. Ipragliflozin treatment was also associated with sustained improvements in efficacy parameters for over 3 years.

SGLT-2 inhibitors and nephroprotection: current evidence and future perspectives

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health issue and an independent risk factor for cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Diabetic kidney disease develops in 30-50% of diabetic patients and it is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the Western world. Strict blood pressure control and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blocker use are the cornerstones of CKD treatment; however, their application in everyday clinical practice is not always ideal and in many patients CKD progression still occurs. Accumulated evidence in the past few years clearly suggests that sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors present potent nephroprotective properties. In clinical trials in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, these agents were shown to reduce albuminuria and proteinuria by 30-50% and the incidence of composite hard renal outcomes by 40-50%. Furthermore, their mechanism of action appears rather solid, as they interfere with the major mechanism of proteinuric CKD progression, i.e., glomerular hypertension and hyperfiltration. The present review summarizes the current evidence from human trials on the effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on nephroprotection and discusses their position in everyday clinical practice.

Clinical relevance between sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors and lipid profiles in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review with a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Few systematic reviews have examined the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) on lipid profiles in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. We conducted a systematic review with a meta-analysis to summarize the available literature and confirm the effects of SGLT2is on lipid profiles in these patients.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and Ichushi-web for studies from the dates of their earliest publication to July 2018, and there was no language restriction. Trials were included if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (1) comparing the effects of SGLT2is with a placebo in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (18 years or older), and (2) reporting HbA1c and at least one lipid parameter, such as triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The weighted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using a random-effects model.

Results

Among the 630 studies retrieved, 17 RCTs that included 4485 patients were ultimately included in our review. Fourteen RCTs were conducted in Japan. The durations of RCTs ranged between 12 and 24 weeks. SGLT2is significantly improved HbA1c [mean difference − 0.80 (95%CI − 0.96 to − 0.64)%, p < 0.00001], TG [mean difference − 16.42 (95%CI − 22.71 to − 10.12) mg/dL, p < 0.00001], and HDL-C [mean difference 3.36 (95%CI 2.73 to 3.98) mg/dL, p < 0.00001], but significantly deteriorated LDL-C [mean difference 3.00 (95%CI 1.18 to 4.82) mg/dL, p < 0.001]. The LDL-C/HDL-C ratio was not significantly different between SGLT2is and a placebo [mean difference − 0.01 (95%CI − 0.08 to 0.06), p < 0.74].

Conclusion

The present results suggest that in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, TG and HDL-C values were better, while LDL-C values were worse with SGLT2is than with a placebo. However, the negative impact of SGLT2is on lipid profiles was modest. Further RCTs with a longer duration or conducted in other Asian countries are needed to provide further evidence to support the clinical relevance of changes in lipid profiles. The present results will be informative for SGLT2is users with concerns regarding the effects of SGLT2is on lipid profiles.

Use of SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Abdominal Obesity: An Asian Perspective and Expert Recommendations

The prevalence of obesity in Asia is of epidemic proportions, with an estimated 1 billion overweight/obese individuals in the region. The majority of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are overweight/obese, which increases the risk of cardiorenal outcomes in these patients; hence, sustained reductions in body weight and visceral adiposity are important management goals. However, most of the glucose-lowering therapies such as insulin, sulfonylureas, glinides, and thiazolidinediones induce weight gain, which makes the management of overweight/obese T2DM patients challenging. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are the only oral glucose-lowering agents that have been shown to reduce body weight and visceral adiposity. In addition, SGLT-2 inhibitors therapy reduces ectopic fat deposition and improves adipose tissue function and weight-related quality of life. In this article, we aim to consolidate the existing literature on the effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors in Asian patients with T2DM and to produce clinical recommendations on their use in overweight or obese patients with T2DM. Recommendations from international and regional guidelines, as well as published data from clinical trials in Asian populations and cardiovascular outcomes trials are reviewed. Based on the available data, SGLT-2 inhibitors represent an evidence-based therapeutic option for the management of overweight/obese patients with T2DM.

Safety of Ipragliflozin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Pooled Analysis of Phase II/III/IV Clinical Trials

INTRODUCTION

Ipragliflozin is a selective sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The objective of this pooled analysis was to characterise the safety profile of ipragliflozin based on safety data from published randomised controlled trials.

METHODS

Safety data from 12 randomised, phase II/III/IV placebo-controlled, parallel group, comparative studies of ipragliflozin in patients with T2DM were pooled. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were analysed for patients who had received at least one dose of ipragliflozin 50 mg (n = 1209) or placebo (n = 796) in studies lasting for up to 24 weeks. TEAEs of special interest and serious adverse events (SAEs) were assessed, as well as abnormal laboratory test and vital sign measurements.

RESULTS

The overall incidences of TEAEs and SAEs between the ipragliflozin and placebo groups were similar, 63.8% vs 59.3% and 2.5% vs 3.3%, respectively. The incidence of TEAEs leading to permanent discontinuation was lower for ipragliflozin (3.6%) than placebo (6.5%). The incidences of TEAEs of special interest including those related to urinary tract infection, cardiovascular events, renal disorder, fracture, malignant tumours and hypoglycaemia were also similar between the groups. Genital infections were more frequent with ipragliflozin (2.4%) than placebo (0.6%), as were pollakiuria/polyuria (6.0% vs 2.0%), volume depletion (4.9% vs 1.8%) and skin/subcutaneous tissue disorders (7.7% vs 4.4%). There were no reported cases of diabetic ketoacidosis, fractures, lower-limb amputation or Fournier's gangrene in ipragliflozin-treated patients across the 12 studies.

CONCLUSION

In randomised, placebo-controlled trials of patients with T2DM, ipragliflozin was well tolerated, with a similar overall incidence of TEAEs to placebo. No new safety signals were observed.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

NCT01071850, NCT00621868, NCT01057628, NCT01117584, NCT01135433, NCT01225081, NCT01242215, NCT02175784, NCT01505426, NCT02452632, NCT02794792, NCT01316094.

FUNDING

Astellas Pharma Inc.

Ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: An evidence-based pharmacoeconomics evaluation

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness of ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science and four Chinese databases, as well as the ClinicalTrials.gov website were searched from their inception through Jan 2019. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias, and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan5.3.

RESULTS

A total of 11 randomized controlled trials with 1766 patients were included. Ipragliflozin administered (50 mg) once daily as an add-on therapy to other glucose-lowering medications (metformin, pioglitazone, sulfonylurea, α-glucosidase inhibitor, sitagliptin, insulin) was associated with reductions in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of -0.74% (95% confidence interval (CI) -1.00 to -0.48), fasting plasma glucose (WMD -25.03 mg/dL; 95% CI -32.89 to -17.16), weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, and triglycerides levels. Neither the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) (RR 1.08; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.16) nor drug-related TEAEs (RR 1.19; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.54) was significantly increased. However, it was associated with an increased risk of hypoglycemia when added to insulin (RR 1.71; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.61). Compared with the pioglitazone group and the sitagliptin + metformin group, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of ipragliflozin add-on therapy group was $4976.89, $2089.76 per percentage of qualified HbA1c, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy is well tolerated and effective. Ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy do not appear cost-effective compared with metformin alone, but may be competitive against pioglitazone group and the sitagliptin + metformin group.

Safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in elderly versus non-elderly Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: 12 month interim results of the STELLA-LONG TERM study

Objective: STELLA-LONG TERM is an ongoing post-marketing surveillance study examining the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in real-world clinical practice in Japan. This interim report of STELLA-LONG TERM examined the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in non-elderly and elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using data up to 12 months. Methods: Data from T2DM patients who were first prescribed ipragliflozin between July 2014 and October 2015 and whose 12 month data were locked by January 2018 were analyzed and compared between non-elderly (<65 years) and elderly patients (≥65 years). Results: The safety and efficacy analysis sets included 11,051 and 8788 patients, respectively. Elderly patients accounted for 28.6% (n = 3157) of the study population. The mean body mass index was 29.9 kg/m² and 26.8 kg/m², the percentage of patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <8.0% was 50.1% and 59.5%, and the percentage of patients with complications was 83.2% and 87.3% in the non-elderly and elderly groups, respectively. Mean HbA1c and body weight decreased significantly from baseline to 12 months in both age groups, regardless of baseline HbA1c and body weight (all p < .05). The incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was 14.8% and 14.2% and that of serious ADRs was 0.8% and 1.4% in non-elderly and elderly patients, respectively (p = .002 for serious ADRs). Conclusion: The incidence of serious ADRs was higher in elderly patients than non-elderly patients. Ipragliflozin was effective in both non-elderly and elderly patients with T2DM in the real-world clinical setting.

Efficacy and Safety of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in East Asians with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in East Asians with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

A literature search that focused primarily on the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library databases was performed. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which satisfied the inclusion and exculsion criteria were eligible to be included in the meta-analysis. Risk ratios (RRs) and weighted mean differences (WMDs) were used as statistical indicators for the analysis of dichotomous data and continuous outcomes, respectively. Pooled estimates were obtained using random-effects models in RevMan version 5.3.5.

RESULTS

Thirty-three RCTs (8496 randomized patients) fulfilled the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed that, compared with the control group, the use of SGLT2 inhibitors improved both glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in patients (WMD - 0.73%; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 0.84, - 0.61) and the percentage of patients with HbA1c  < 7% (RR 2.33; 95% CI 1.74, 3.12); lowered both fasting plasma glucose (WMD - 28.47 mg/dl; 95% CI - 32.86, - 24.08) and postprandial glucose (WMD - 52.32 mg/dl; 95% CI - 67.67, - 39.96); reduced body weight (WMD - 1.73 kg; 95% CI - 2.28, - 1.17); and did not increase the risk of hypoglycemia (RR 1.27; 95% CI 0.89, 1.82) and urinary tract infections (RR 0.93; 95% CI 0.68, 1.27). However, SGLT2 inhibitors did increase the risk of genital tract infections (GTIs) (RR 1.73; 95% CI 1.02, 2.96). The stratified analysis showed that patients with higher HbA1c levels at baseline may achieve a greater improvement in HbA1c after taking SGLT2 inhibitors, while those with higher body weight or a longer history of diabetes may have an increased risk of developing GTIs.

CONCLUSION

Current research suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors have favorable efficacy and safety in East Asian patients with T2DM.

Impact of body mass index on the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A subgroup analysis of 3-month interim results from the Specified Drug Use Results Survey of Ipragliflozin Treatment in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Long-term Use study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Specified Drug Use Results Survey of Ipragliflozin Treatment in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: Long-term Use is an ongoing postmarketing study of ipragliflozin for long-term use in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A subgroup analysis of data from the study was carried out to investigate the impact of obesity on the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in this population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were divided into the following subgroups according to their body mass index (BMI): <22.0, 22.0 to <25.0, 25.0 to <30.0 and ≥30.0 kg/m2 . Changes in bodyweight and glycemic parameters up to 3 months were evaluated, as well as adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that occurred during ipragliflozin treatment.

RESULTS

In the efficacy analysis set (8,633 patients), glycemic control and bodyweight statistically significantly improved from baseline to 3 months in all BMI subgroups (all P < 0.05). No strong correlations were identified between changes in bodyweight and changes in hemoglobin A1c, waist circumference or BMI in any of the subgroups. The incidence of adverse drug reactions was 6.29, 8.44, 11.18 and 11.74% in the <22.0, 22.0 to <25.0, 25.0 to <30.0 and ≥30.0 kg/m2 groups, respectively (P = 0.001), in the safety analysis set (n = 11,053 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

In Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, ipragliflozin improved glycemic control and reduced bodyweight, regardless of BMI. Adverse drug reactions were more common in patients with higher BMI than in those with lower BMI.

Natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity: Possibilities of application for the treatment of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus currently affects as many as 400 million people worldwide, creating a heavy economic burden and stretching health care resources. A dysfunction of glucose homeostasis underlies the disease. Despite advances in the treatment of diabetes, many patients still suffer from complications and side effects; hence, development of more effective treatments for diabetes is still desirable. SGLT2 is the principle cotransporter involved in glucose reabsorption in the kidney. SGLT2 inhibition reduces glucose reabsorption by the kidney and ameliorates plasma glucose concentration. The interest in natural products that can be used for the inhibition of SGLT2 is growing. The flavonoid phlorizin, which can be isolated from the bark of apple trees, has been used as lead structure due to its inhibitory activity of SGLT1 and SGLT2. Some phlorizin-derived synthetic compounds, including canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, ipragliflozin, and ertugliflozin, are approved by the food and drug administration to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whereas others are under clinical trials investigation. In addition, other natural product-derived compounds have been investigated for their ability to improve blood glucose control. The present review summarizes the natural products with SGLT2 inhibitory activity, and the synthetic compounds obtained from them, and discusses their application for the treatment of diabetes.

Effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular, renal and safety outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

The use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been limited, primarily because glycaemic efficacy is dependent on kidney function. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with T2DM and CKD, defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² .

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library until 7 August 2018 and websites of the US, European and Japanese regulatory authorities until 27 July 2018 for data from randomized controlled trials of SGLT2 inhibitors that included reporting of effects on biomarkers, cardiovascular, renal or safety outcomes in individuals with T2DM and CKD. Random effects models and inverse variance weighting were used to calculate relative risks with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

Data were obtained from 27 studies with up to 7363 participants involved. In patients with T2DM and CKD, SGLT2 inhibitors lowered glycated haemoglobin (-0.29%; 95% CI, -0.39 to -0.19) as well as blood pressure, body weight and albuminuria. SGLT2 inhibition reduced the risk of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction or nonfatal stroke (RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.70-0.94) and heart failure (RR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.48-0.78), without a clear effect on all-cause mortality (HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.73-1.01). These agents also attenuated the annual decline in eGFR slope (placebo-subtracted difference of 1.35 mL/1.73 m² /y; 95% CI, 0.78-1.93) and reduced the risk of the composite renal outcome (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.53-0.95). There was no evidence of additional risks with SGLT2 inhibition in CKD beyond those already known for the class, although heterogeneity was observed across individual agents for some safety outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Currently available data suggest that, despite only modest reductions in glycated haemoglobin, SGLT2 inhibitors reduce the risk of cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with T2DM and CKD, without clear evidence of additional safety concerns.

Safety and Effectiveness of Ipragliflozin for Type 2 Diabetes in Japan: 12-Month Interim Results of the STELLA-LONG TERM Post-Marketing Surveillance Study

Introduction

The present interim report of the STELLA-LONG TERM study aimed to examine the safety and effectiveness of ipragliflozin in real-word clinical practice in Japan using data up to 12 months. We also evaluated the effect of ipragliflozin on aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in patients with normal vs. abnormal liver function.

Methods

This is an ongoing 3-year post-marketing surveillance study. We analyzed data from Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients who were first prescribed ipragliflozin between 17 July 2014 and 16 October 2015 at participating centers in Japan, and whose data were locked by 16 January 2018. The incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was evaluated for safety. Changes in glycemic control and body weight were evaluated for effectiveness. The effect on liver function was evaluated by changes in the fatty liver index, and changes in AST and ALT were evaluated in patients with normal and abnormal liver function.

Results

The safety analysis set comprised 11,051 patients and the efficacy analysis set comprised 8788 patients. The incidence rates of ADRs and serious ADRs were 14.6% (1616/11,051) and 0.97% (107/11,051), respectively. Significant reductions (all P < 0.001 vs. baseline, paired t test) in glycated hemoglobin (− 0.8%), fasting plasma glucose (− 31.9 mg/dL), body weight (− 2.9 kg), and fatty liver index (− 8.7) were observed. In patients with normal liver function at baseline, no clinically significant changes in AST and ALT were observed. In patients with abnormal liver function at baseline, clinically and statistically significant decreases (P < 0.05 vs. baseline, two-sample t test) in AST (− 9.0 U/L) and ALT (− 14.7 U/L) levels were observed.

Conclusion

Ipragliflozin was effective and well tolerated in Japanese patients with T2DM over 12 months in the real-world clinical setting. Improvements in liver function parameters (AST and ALT) were observed in T2DM patients with abnormal liver function.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT02479399.

Funding

Astellas Pharma Inc., Japan.

Effect of SGLT2 inhibitor on renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study summarizes the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on renal function and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and EMBASE for reports published up to March 2018 and included RCTs reporting estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and/or urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) changes. Data extraction and assessment of research quality based on Cochrane risk biasing tools. Data were calculated to represent the standardized mean difference (SMD) for each study, and the SMDs with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random effects model.

RESULTS

Fifty-one studies were included that evaluated eGFR levels, and 17 studies were included that evaluated UACR levels. A meta-analysis showed that SGLT2 inhibitors had no significant effect on eGFR levels (SMD - 0.02, 95% CI - 0.06, 0.03, p = 0.45), and eGFR reduction was observed in the subsets of the duration of the trial 12 < duration ≤ 26 weeks (SMD - 0.08, 95% CI - 0.13, - 0.02, p = 0.005) and mean baseline eGFR < 60 ml/min per 1.73 square meters (SMD - 0.22, 95% CI - 0.37, - 0.07, p = 0.004). We found that SGLT2 inhibitors reduced UACR levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (SMD - 0.11, 95% CI - 0.17, - 0.05, p = 0.0001). Compared with monotherapy, the combination with other hypoglycemic agents can reduce albuminuria levels (SMD - 0.13, 95% CI - 0.19, - 0.06, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of SGLT2 inhibitor on eGFR in patients with T2DM was not statistically significant, but it was effective in reducing albuminuria levels.

Comparative safety of the sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the association between the use of sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and postmarket harms as identified by drug regulatory agencies.

DESIGN

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCT). Six large databases were searched from inception to May 2018. Random effects models were used to estimate pooled relative risks (RRs).

INTERVENTION

SGLT2 inhibitors, compared with placebo or active comparators.

PRIMARY OUTCOMES

Acute kidney injury (AKI), diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), urinary tract infections (UTI), bone fractures and lower limb amputations.

RESULTS

We screened 2418 citations of which 109 were included. Most studies included one of four SGLT2 inhibitors, dapagliflozin, canagliflozin, empagliflozin and ipragliflozin. When compared with placebo, SGLT2 inhibitors were found to be significantly protective against AKI (RR=0.59; 95% CI 0.39 to 0.89; I2=0.0%), while no difference was found for DKA (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.30 to 1.45, I2=0.0%), UTI (RR 1.02; 95% CI 0.95 to 1.09, I2=0.0%) or bone fracture (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.69 to 1.09, I2=1.3%). Three studies reported on amputation, with one finding a significant increase risk. No increased risk for either outcome was found when compared with active controls. Subgroup analysis did show an increased risk of UTI with dapagliflozin only (RR 1.21; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.43, I2=0.0%), but no other analysis supported an increased risk of AKI, DKA, UTI or fracture.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence from RCTs does not suggest an increased risk of harm with SGLT2 inhibitors as a class over placebo or active comparators with respect to AKI, DKA, UTI or fracture. However, wide CIs for many comparisons suggest limited precision, and therefore clinically important adverse events cannot be ruled out. Dapagliflozin, appears to independently increase the risk of UTI, although the mechanism for this intraclass variation in risk is unclear.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42016038715.

A phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin as an add-on therapy to metformin in Russian patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin as add-on therapy to metformin in Russian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

In this double-blind study conducted in 14 centers in Russia, 165 patients were randomized 2:1 to ipragliflozin (50 mg/day) or placebo for 24 weeks while continuing metformin. Patients who had HbA1c ≥ 7.0% (53 mmol/mol) at Week 12 received open-label ipragliflozin (50 mg/day) in addition to the blinded drug from Week 12-24.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in HbA1c and body weight from baseline to Week 12 in favor of ipragliflozin were observed (adjusted mean difference to placebo: -0.3% (-3 mmol/mol), P = 0.048 and -1.34 kg, P < 0.001, respectively). The incidence of AEs was similar in both groups. Uptitration to 100 mg/day ipragliflozin led to a further reduction in body weight (mean change from Week 12: -0.65 kg, P = 0.004) and an additional 13% (9/69) of patients achieving HbA1c < 7.0% (53 mmol/mol) at Week 24. Incidence of AEs was similar among patients receiving ipragliflozin 50 mg/day (23.7%) and 100 mg/day (24.6%).

CONCLUSION

Ipragliflozin 50 mg/day added to metformin significantly reduced HbA1c and body weight after 12 weeks and showed a safety profile comparable to placebo. Uptitration to 100 mg/day improved clinical outcomes with no additional safety concerns.

Comparative study of the effects of ipragliflozin and sitagliptin on multiple metabolic variables in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: A multicentre, randomized, prospective, open-label, active-controlled study

In the present randomized study, we assessed the efficacy of ipragliflozin compared with sitagliptin in 124 Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor-naïve and incretin-related agent-naïve patients were randomly assigned to receive additional 50 mg ipragliflozin or sitagliptin. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with >0.5% decrease in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) without body weight gain at 12 weeks. For secondary endpoints, we measured several biomarkers related to metabolic changes. After 12 weeks, 53.9% of participants in the ipragliflozin and 42.9% in the sitagliptin group reached the primary endpoint (P = 0.32). Decreases in homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, body fat percentage and skeletal muscle mass index, and increases in free fatty acids, ketone body concentration and HDL cholesterol levels were greater in the ipragliflozin group. Increases in homeostatic model assessment of β-cell function and decreases in proinsulin-to-insulin ratio were greater in the sitagliptin group. No serious adverse events occurred in either group. In conclusion, ipragliflozin had beneficial effects on fat reduction, insulin resistance and lipid metabolism, while sitagliptin had beneficial effects on β-cell function.

Ipragliflozin Add-on Therapy to a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (AGATE): A 52-Week Open-Label Study

INTRODUCTION

Few data are available regarding ipragliflozin treatment in combination with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in combination with GLP-1 receptor agonists in Japanese patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

This multicenter study (consisting of three periods: a 4-week washout period, a 6-week observation period, and a 52-week open-label treatment period) included patients aged ≥ 20 years who received a stable dose/regimen of a GLP-1 receptor agonist either solely or in combination therapy with a sulfonylurea for ≥ 6 weeks, with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of ≥ 7.5% and a fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of ≥ 126 mg/dL. Ipragliflozin treatment was given at a fixed dose of 50 mg/day for 20 weeks, followed by 50 or 100 mg/day for 32 weeks. Changes from baseline in glycemic control and other parameters were examined; safety was also assessed.

RESULTS

The mean changes in HbA1c and body weight from baseline to end of treatment were - 0.92% and - 2.69 kg, respectively, in all ipragliflozin-treated patients (n = 103). Overall, sustained reductions from baseline were observed for HbA1c, FPG, self-monitored blood glucose, and body weight during the 52-week treatment. The dose increase of ipragliflozin to 100 mg/day resulted in better glycemic control and weight reduction for patients in whom the 50-mg dose was insufficient. Overall, 46.6% (48/103) of patients experienced drug-related adverse events. The most common drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events were pollakiuria (9.7%), hypoglycemia (8.7%), constipation (6.8%), and thirst (5.8%).

CONCLUSION

Combined therapy with ipragliflozin and GLP-1 receptor agonists/sulfonylureas was significantly efficacious in reducing glycemic parameters in patients with T2DM with inadequate glycemic control, and no major safety concerns were identified. The results from this study suggest that ipragliflozin can be recommended as a well-tolerated and effective add-on therapy to a GLP-1 receptor agonist for the treatment of T2DM.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT02291874).

FUNDING

Astellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan.

Improved cardiometabolic risk factors in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes treated with ipragliflozin: a pooled analysis of six randomized, placebo-controlled trials

To examine differential improvements among cardiovascular risk factors in response to treatment with ipragliflozin in Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, we conducted a pooled analysis of six randomized, double-blind trials of Japanese T2DM patients who received ipragliflozin 50 mg/day or placebo and had patient-level data for cardiometabolic risk parameters. Risk factors included glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance and beta-cell function (HOMA-R and HOMA-beta, respectively), systolic blood pressure, fasting serum insulin concentrations, and the concentration of uric acid, lipids, and liver enzymes from baseline to end of treatment (EOT; 12-24 weeks). The primary endpoint of each trial was the change in HbA1c from baseline to EOT. Changes in risk factors from baseline to EOT were compared between ipragliflozin-treated and placebo groups, and between two subgroups (high- and low-risk groups for each parameter). All parameters, except low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and non high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non HDL-C), improved significantly in the ipragliflozin group. Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly greater improvement in the high-risk group versus low-risk group in HbA1c, HOMA-R, HOMA-beta, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and gamma-glutamyltransferase, but not in any of the lipid parameters or blood pressure. Liver function improvement in the ipragliflozin group was significantly correlated with changes in body weight, HbA1c, HOMA-beta, and HOMA-R. This analysis demonstrated that, in Japanese T2DM patients, ipragliflozin 50 mg/day was associated with improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors, except for LDL-C and non HDL-C.

Tolerability and Efficacy of Ipragliflozin in The Management of Inadequately Controlled Type 2 Diabetes mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

AIM

Ipragliflozin is a new antidiabetic agent that works through enhancing renal glucose excretion. We aim to synthesize evidence from published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the safety and efficacy of ipragliflozin in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central register of clinical trials using relevant keywords. Records were screened for eligible studies and data were extracted and synthesized using Review Manager Version 5.3 for windows. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

We included 13 RCTs (N=2535 patients) in the final analysis. The overall effect estimates favoured ipragliflozin 50mg monotherapy group over placebo in terms of: HbA1c (Standardized mean difference (SMD)=-1.20%, 95% Confidence interval (95% CI)=[-1.47, -0.93]; p<0.001), fasting plasma glucose (SMD=-1.30 mg/dL, 95% CI [-1.93, -0.67]; p<0.001), fasting serum insulin (SMD=-1.64 μU/mL, 95% CI [-2.70, -0.59]; p=0.002), and body weight (SMD=-0.85 kg, 95% CI [-1.19, -0.51]; p<0.001). Similarly, better glycemic control and significant body weight reduction compared to placebo were attained in ipragliflozin 50 mg combination with metformin, insulin with/without dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, sulfonylurea, and pioglitazone. Ipragliflozin, either alone or in combination, exhibits acceptable safety profile.

CONCLUSION

The presented meta-analysis provides class one evidence that ipragliflozin is safe and effective in the management of T2DM either as monotherapy or an add-on.

SGLT2 inhibitors and renal outcomes in type 2 diabetes with or without renal impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors may have renal protective effects in people with impaired kidney function. We assessed the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in people with type 2 diabetes with or without renal impairment [defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of ≥30 and <60ml/min/1.73m² and/or UACR>300 and ≤5000mg/g] by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of available studies.

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from MEDLINE, EMABASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and search of bibliographies to March 2017. No relevant observational study was identified. Summary measures were presented as mean differences and narrative synthesis performed for studies that could not be pooled.

RESULTS

42 articles which included 40 RCTs comprising 29,954 patients were included. In populations with renal impairment, SGLT2 inhibition compared with placebo was consistently associated with an initial decrease in eGFR followed by an increase and return to baseline levels. In pooled analysis of 17 studies in populations without renal impairment, there was no significant change in eGFR comparing SGLT2 inhibitors with placebo (mean difference, 0.51ml/min/1.73m²; 95% CI: -0.69, 1.72; p=403). SGLT2 inhibition relative to placebo was associated with preservation in serum creatinine levels or initial increases followed by return to baseline levels in patients with renal impairment, but levels were preserved in patients without renal impairment. In populations with or without renal impairment, SGLT2 inhibitors (particularly canagliflozin and empagliflozin) compared with placebo were associated with decreased urine albumin, improved albuminiuria, slowed progression to macroalbuminuria, and reduced the risk of worsening renal impairment, the initiation of kidney transplant, and death from renal disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Emerging data suggests that with SGLT2 inhibition, renal function seems to be preserved in people with diabetes with or without renal impairment. Furthermore, SGLT2 inhibition prevents further renal function deterioration and death from kidney disease in these patients.

Safety and efficacy of ipragliflozin in elderly versus non-elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a subgroup analysis of the STELLA-LONG TERM study

BACKGROUND

This subgroup analysis of STELLA-LONG TERM interim data explored the long-term safety and efficacy of ipragliflozin in non-elderly vs. elderly Japanese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

STELLA-LONG TERM is an ongoing 3-year prospective surveillance study of Japanese T2DM patients receiving ipragliflozin 50 mg once daily. In this subgroup analysis, patient characteristics, laboratory variables, and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were compared between non-elderly (<65 years) and elderly (≥65 years) patients.

RESULTS

Non-elderly patients had significantly higher body mass index and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol than elderly patients (P < 0.001). The proportion of patients with hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) <8.0% was significantly higher among elderly patients (P < 0.001). HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and body weight significantly decreased from baseline to 3 and 12 months in both groups (all P < 0.05 vs. baseline). The ADR incidence was 10.83% vs. 10.42% in non-elderly and elderly patients. The incidence of skin complications was 0.98% vs. 1.65% and that of renal disorder was 0.47% vs. 0.95% in non-elderly and elderly patients (both P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Ipragliflozin was effective in non-elderly and elderly Japanese T2DM patients in a real-world clinical setting. The incidence of renal disorder and skin complications was significantly higher in elderly vs. non-elderly patients.

Efficacy of ipragliflozin as monotherapy or as add-on therapy with other oral antidiabetic medications for treating type 2 diabetes in Japanese patients with inadequate glycemic control: A subgroup analysis based on patient characteristics

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in treating Japanese type 2 diabetes patients with inadequate glycemic control by investigating diurnal variations of blood glucose and body composition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was an investigator-initiated, multicenter, prospective study with a 6-month treatment period. The primary outcome investigated was change in hemoglobin A1c levels from baseline. Secondary outcomes included changes in fasting plasma glucose, insulin resistance, variations in 24-h glucose levels detected by continuous glucose monitoring, bodyweight, body composition, waist circumference and serum lipids. Adverse events were evaluated throughout the study.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients completed the study. Over the 6-month period, ipragliflozin-treated patients showed reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels by 0.3%, fasting plasma glucose levels by 13.0 mg/dL, bodyweight by 2.1 kg, body fat mass by 1.5 kg and extracellular water by 0.3 kg, as well as a decrease in systolic/diastolic blood pressures. Significant reductions from baseline in mean amplitude of glucose excursions and standard deviation, and the reduced frequency of hyperglycemia were confirmed. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol was also significantly improved. Notably, the subgroup analysis of hemoglobin A1c levels, bodyweight, waist circumference, and body composition based on age, sex and body mass index showed similar reductions within each subgroup. The incidences of adverse events and adverse drug reactions were 20.0% and 1.0%, respectively, over the 6-month period.

CONCLUSIONS

Ipragliflozin is a useful oral antidiabetic medication for patients with a wide range of background characteristics.

Metabolic and hemodynamic effects of sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on cardio-renal protection in the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

The specific sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2 inhibitors) inhibit glucose reabsorption in proximal renal tubular cells, and both fasting and postprandial glucose significantly decrease because of urinary glucose loss. As a result, pancreatic β-cell function and peripheral insulin action significantly improve with relief from glucose toxicity. Furthermore, whole-body energy metabolism changes to relative glucose deficiency and triggers increased lipolysis in fat cells, and fatty acid oxidation and then ketone body production in the liver during treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors. In addition, SGLT2 inhibitors have profound hemodynamic effects including diuresis, dehydration, weight loss and lowering blood pressure. The most recent findings on SGLT2 inhibitors come from results of the Empagliflozin, Cardiovascular Outcomes and Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes trial. SGLT2 inhibitors exert extremely unique and cardio-renal protection through metabolic and hemodynamic effects, with long-term durability on the reduction of blood glucose, bodyweight and blood pressure. Although a site of action of SGLT2 inhibitors is highly specific to inhibit renal glucose reabsorption, whole-body energy metabolism, and hemodynamic and renal functions are profoundly modulated during the treatment of SGLT2 inhibitors. Previous studies suggest multifactorial clinical benefits and safety concerns of SGLT2 inhibitors. Although ambivalent clinical results of this drug are still under active discussion, the present review summarizes promising recent evidence on the cardio-renal and metabolic benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition on renal function and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim

To evaluate the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition on renal function and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We conducted systematic searches of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials up to June 2016 and included randomized controlled trials of SGLT2 inhibitors in adult type 2 diabetic patients reporting estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and/or urine albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) changes. Data were synthesized using the random-effects model.

Results

Forty-seven studies with 22,843 participants were included. SGLT2 inhibition was not associated with a significant change in eGFR in general (weighted mean difference (WMD), −0.33 ml/min per 1.73 m², 95% CI [−0.90 to 0.23]) or in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (WMD −0.78 ml/min per 1.73 m², 95% CI [−2.52 to 0.97]). SGLT2 inhibition was associated with eGFR reduction in short-term trials (WMD −0.98 ml/min per 1.73 m², 95% CI [−1.42 to −0.54]), and with eGFR preservation in long-term trials (WMD 2.01 ml/min per 1.73 m², 95% CI [0.86 to 3.16]). Urine ACR reduction after SGLT2 inhibition was not statistically significant in type 2 diabetic patients in general (WMD −7.24 mg/g, 95% CI [−15.54 to 1.06]), but was significant in patients with CKD (WMD −107.35 mg/g, 95% CI [−192.53 to −22.18]).

Conclusions

SGLT2 inhibition was not associated with significant changes in eGFR in patients with type 2 diabetes, likely resulting from a mixture of an initial reduction of eGFR and long-term renal function preservation. SGLT2 inhibition was associated with statistically significant albuminuria reduction in type 2 diabetic patients with CKD.

Effects of ipragliflozin, a selective sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor, on blood pressure in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a pooled analysis of six randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials

Our aim was to examine the effects of ipragliflozin, a selective sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor, on blood pressure in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We conducted a pooled analysis of double-blind trials of Japanese T2DM patients, randomized to 50 mg ipragliflozin or placebo, with patient-level data for the change in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from baseline to end of treatment (12-24 weeks). Data from six trials were analyzed: ipragliflozin was administered as monotherapy in two; in combination with metformin, pioglitazone, or sulfonylurea in one each; and in combination with prior therapy in patients with renal impairment in one. Overall, 628 and 368 patients were treated with ipragliflozin and placebo, respectively. The placebo-adjusted mean changes (95 % confidence interval) in SBP and DBP (mmHg) were -2.8 (-4.4, -1.3, P < 0.001) and -1.6 (-2.7, -0.6, P < 0.002), respectively, in all patients. The reductions in SBP and DBP were significantly greater in patients with baseline SBP ≥140 mmHg [-5.5 (-9.1, -1.8) and -2.9 (-5.3, -0.5), respectively] than in patients with SBP <140 mmHg [-2.1 (-3.8, -0.4) and -1.3 (-2.5, -0.1), respectively]. The reductions in SBP and DBP were also significantly greater in the ipragliflozin group than in the placebo group in patients treated with [-2.8 (-5.1, -0.4) and -2.4 (-4.0, -0.8), respectively] or without [-3.0 (-5.0, -1.0) and -1.0 (-2.4, 0.4), respectively] concomitant antihypertensive therapy. In conclusion, this pooled analysis showed that ipragliflozin was associated with significant reductions in SBP and DBP compared with placebo.

Real-world evidence for the safety of ipragliflozin in elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (STELLA-ELDER): final results of a post-marketing surveillance study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the real-world safety of ipragliflozin in elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Japanese patients (≥65 years old) who were first prescribed ipragliflozin within 3 months after its launch in April 2014 were registered in this post-marketing surveillance (PMS). Final data collection was in July 2015. Survey items included demographics, treatments, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), vital signs, and laboratory variables.

RESULTS

The PMS included 8505 patients (4181 males/4324 females). The mean age and diabetes duration were 72.3 years and 10.6 years, respectively. In 84.3% of patients, ipragliflozin was prescribed at 50 mg/day, which was continued unchanged. Overall, 16.91% of patients experienced 1880 ADRs, and 165 ADRs were classified as serious in 127 patients (1.49%). ADRs of special interest included skin complications, volume depletion, polyuria/pollakiuria, genital infection, urinary tract infection, renal disorders, hypoglycemia, cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular disease, malignant tumor, fracture, and ketone body-related events.

CONCLUSIONS

This 1-year PMS revealed probable ADRs in elderly Japanese patients with T2DM prescribed ipragliflozin in real-world settings, with no new safety concerns. The risk factors for ADRs varied but could be rationalized. The results should help physicians to identify possible treatment-emergent ADRs in ipragliflozin-treated patients.

Effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on cardiovascular events, death, and major safety outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In patients with type 2 diabetes, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are known to reduce glucose concentrations, blood pressure, and weight, but to increase LDL cholesterol and the incidence of urogenital infections. Protection against cardiovascular events has also been reported, as have possible increased risks of adverse outcomes such as ketoacidosis and bone fracture. We aimed to establish the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular events, death, and safety outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes, both overall and separately for individual drugs.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and websites of US, European, and Japanese regulatory authorities from Jan 1, 1950, to Sept 30, 2015, for data from prospective randomised controlled trials assessing the effects of SGLT2 treatment compared with controls. We excluded duplicate reports, trials of compound drugs, trials that lasted 7 days or fewer, trials that did not report on outcomes of interest, and articles that presented pooled trial data for which the individual trials could not be identified. We extracted data in duplicate using a standardised approach. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events. Secondary outcomes were cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, admission to hospital for unstable angina, heart failure, and all-cause mortality. We estimated summary relative risks with fixed-effects meta-analysis, with the I(2) statistic used to estimate heterogeneity of results beyond chance.

FINDINGS

The analyses included data from six regulatory submissions (37 525 participants) and 57 published trials (33 385 participants), which provided data for seven different SGLT2 inhibitors. SGLT2 inhibitors protected against the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (relative risk 0·84 [95% CI 0·75-0·95]; p=0·006), cardiovascular death (0·63 [0·51-0·77]; p<0·0001), heart failure (0·65 [0·50-0·85]; p=0·002), and death from any cause (0·71 [0·61-0·83]; p<0·0001). No clear effect was apparent for non-fatal myocardial infarction (0·88 [0·72-1·07]; p=0·18) or angina (0·95 [0·73-1·23]; p=0·70), but we noted an adverse effect for non-fatal stroke (1·30 [1·00-1·68]; p=0·049). We noted no clear evidence that the individual drugs had different effects on cardiovascular outcomes or death (all I(2)<43%). Safety analyses showed consistent increased risks of genital infections (regulatory submissions 4·75 [4·00-5·63]; scientific reports 2·88 [2·48-3·34]), but findings for some safety outcomes varied depending on whether anlayses were based on data extracted from regulatory submissions or trials reported in the scientific literature.

INTERPRETATION

These data suggest net protection of SGLT2 inhibitors against cardiovascular outcomes and death. The efficacy results were driven by findings for empagliflozin (the only SGLT2 inhibitor for which data from a dedicated long-term cardiovascular safety trial have been reported), although results for the other drugs in the class were not clearly different. Adverse events were more difficult to quantify than was efficacy, with the effects of individual drugs in the class seeming to differ for some safety outcomes. Results from ongoing studies will be crucial to substantiate these findings across the drug class, but the available data provide a strong rationale to expect benefit from use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes at high risk of cardiovascular events.

FUNDING

National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia.

Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes stratified by body mass index: A subgroup analysis of five randomized clinical trials

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

The influence of overweight/obesity on the clinical efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors is unclear. We carried out a pooled analysis to examine the impact of body mass index on the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patient-level data were pooled for five Japanese double-blind trials (NCT00621868, NCT01057628, NCT01135433, NCT01225081 and NCT01242215) in which patients were randomized to ipragliflozin or a placebo as monotherapy, or in combination with metformin, pioglitazone or a sulfonylurea. Outcomes included the changes in hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, bodyweight and treatment-emergent adverse events. Patients were divided into four body mass index categories.

RESULTS

Hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose and bodyweight decreased significantly in the ipragliflozin group compared with the placebo group in all body mass index categories, and in the total cohort (all P < 0.001). Hemoglobin A1c did not improve in 11.2 and 69.2% of patients in the ipragliflozin and placebo groups, respectively. The change in hemoglobin A1c was weakly correlated with the change in bodyweight in all patients (r = 0.136, P = 0.002). Regarding laboratory variables, the placebo-subtracted difference tended to be greater in patients with higher body mass index for aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase and uric acid. The incidences of treatment-emergent adverse events were similar between the ipragliflozin and placebo groups in all patients combined and in the four body mass index categories.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin are not influenced by obesity/overweight in Japanese patients.

Safety of ipragliflozin in elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (STELLA-ELDER): Interim results of a post-marketing surveillance study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with ipragliflozin in elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We report interim results of a postmarketing surveillance survey. Japanese physicians recorded ADRs in elderly patients (≥ 65 years old) who were first prescribed with ipragliflozin within 3 months of its launch (April 2014).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence of ADRs within 1 year of starting treatment with ipragliflozin.

RESULTS

898 ADRs occurred in 721/7,170 patients (10.06%). Skin complication-, volume depletion-, genital infection-, polyuria/pollakiuria-, urinary tract infection-, and hypoglycemia-related ADRs occurred in 2.23%, 1.90%, 1.45%, 1.32%, 0.77%, and 0.32%, respectively. ADRs were classified as serious in 44 (0.61%) patients. Half of the ADRs occurred within 30 days of starting treatment. There were no cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Most (92.1%) of the ADRs resolved or improved. Glycated hemoglobin, fasting blood glucose, body weight, and systolic blood pressure decreased by 0.6% (baseline 7.8%), 22.7 mg/dL (baseline 163.0 mg/dL), 2.3 kg (baseline 67.4 kg), and 3.1 mmHg (baseline 133.2 mmHg), respectively, from baseline to treatment discontinuation/last visit.

CONCLUSIONS

Ipragliflozin is well tolerated and reduced surrogate endpoints in elderly Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02297620.

Clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the novel SGLT2 inhibitor ipragliflozin

Ipragliflozin (Suglat(®)) is a potent and selective inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 that was recently launched in Japan. Its mechanism of action involves the suppression of glucose re-absorption in the kidney proximal tubules, causing excretion of glucose in the urine. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of currently available pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data on ipragliflozin, including studies in healthy subjects, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and special populations. In single- and multiple-dose studies, the maximum plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) for ipragliflozin increased in a dose-dependent manner. Although urinary excretion of ipragliflozin is low (approximately 1 %), tubular concentration of free ipragliflozin is adequate to provide pharmacological activities. No clinically relevant effects of age, gender or food on the exposure of ipragliflozin were observed. The AUC for ipragliflozin was 20-30 % greater in patients with moderate renal or hepatic impairment than in patients with normal renal or hepatic function. In drug-drug interaction studies, the pharmacokinetics of ipragliflozin and other oral antidiabetic drugs (metformin, sitagliptin, pioglitazone, glimepiride, miglitol and mitiglinide) were not significantly affected by their co-administration. Urinary glucose excretion (UGE) also increased in a dose-dependent manner, approaching a maximum effect at 50-100 mg dosages in Japanese healthy volunteers and patients with type 2 diabetes. The change in UGE from baseline (ΔUGE) tended to be lower in older subjects and female subjects, compared with younger subjects and male subjects, respectively. ΔUGE tended to decrease with decreasing renal function, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes with moderate or severe renal impairment.