Prescription of glucose-lowering therapies and risk of COVID-19 mortality in people with type 2 diabetes: a nationwide observational study in England

The Bidirectional Association Between Metabolic Syndrome and Long-COVID-19

Background

The rapid global spread of a new coronavirus disease known as COVID-19 has led to a significant increase in mortality rates, resulting in an unprecedented worldwide pandemic.

Methods

The impact of COVID-19, particularly its long-term effects, has also had a profound effect on the health and well-being of individuals.Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of heart and brain diseases, presenting a significant danger to human well-being.

Purpose

The prognosis of long COVID and the progression of metabolic syndrome interact with each other, but there is currently a lack of systematic reports.In this paper, the pathogenesis, related treatment and prognosis of long COVID and metabolic syndrome are systematically reviewed.

Hyperglycemia induced cathepsin L maturation linked to diabetic comorbidities and COVID-19 mortality

Diabetes, a prevalent chronic condition, significantly increases the risk of mortality from COVID-19, yet the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Emerging evidence implicates Cathepsin L (CTSL) in diabetic complications, including nephropathy and retinopathy. Our previous research identified CTSL as a pivotal protease promoting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Here, we demonstrate elevated blood CTSL levels in individuals with diabetes, facilitating SARS-CoV-2 infection. Chronic hyperglycemia correlates positively with CTSL concentration and activity in diabetic patients, while acute hyperglycemia augments CTSL activity in healthy individuals. In vitro studies reveal high glucose, but not insulin, promotes SARS-CoV-2 infection in wild-type cells, with CTSL knockout cells displaying reduced susceptibility. Utilizing lung tissue samples from diabetic and non-diabetic patients, alongside Leprdb/dbmice and Leprdb/+mice, we illustrate increased CTSL activity in both humans and mice under diabetic conditions. Mechanistically, high glucose levels promote CTSL maturation and translocation from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the lysosome via the ER-Golgi-lysosome axis. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of hyperglycemia-induced CTSL maturation in diabetic comorbidities and complications.

Potential use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors during acute illness: a systematic review based on COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

SGLT-2i are increasingly recognized for their benefits in patients with cardiometabolic risk factors. Additionally, emerging evidence suggests potential applications in acute illnesses, including COVID-19. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effects of SGLT-2i in patients facing acute illness, particularly focusing on SARS-CoV-2 infection.

METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, medRxiv, Research Square, and Google Scholar identified 22 studies meeting inclusion criteria, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently.

RESULTS

Out of the 22 studies included in the review, six reported reduced mortality in DM-2 patients taking SGLT-2i, while two found a decreased risk of hospitalization. Moreover, one study demonstrated a lower in-hospital mortality rate in DM-2 patients under combined therapy of metformin plus SGLT-2i. However, three studies showed a neutral effect on the risk of hospitalization. No increased risk of developing COVID-19 was associated with SGLT-2i use in DM-2 patients. Prior use of SGLT-2i was not associated with ICU admission and need for MV. The risk of acute kidney injury showed variability, with inconsistent evidence regarding diabetic ketoacidosis.

CONCLUSION

Our systematic review reveals mixed findings on the efficacy of SGLT-2i use in COVID-19 patients with cardiometabolic risk factors. While some studies suggest potential benefits in reducing mortality and hospitalizations, others report inconclusive results. Further research is needed to clarify optimal usage and mitigate associated risks, emphasizing caution in clinical interpretation.

The Effect of Antihyperglycemic Medications on COVID-19: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review from Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

Diabetes, a chronic disease worldwide, may be associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). While some antihyperglycemic medications may be beneficial, others may increase the risk of adverse clinical outcomes of COVID-19. We aimed to analyze the effect of antihyperglycemic medications on COVID-19.

METHODS

We searched the Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus databases from December 2019 to June 2022 to identify literature related to patients with COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with antihyperglycemic medications.

RESULTS

56 studies were included in the analysis. Metformin (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.58-0.74; p < 0.05), Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1ra) (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.59-0.91; p < 0.05), and sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 inhibitor (SGLT 2i) (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.69-0.87; p < 0.05) were associated with lower mortality risk, while insulin was associated with increased mortality risk (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.26-1.55; p < 0.05). Meanwhile, metformin (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.50-0.85; p < 0.05) and GLP-1ra (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.76-0.94; p < 0.05) were significantly associated with decreased severe manifestation risk. What's more, metformin (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.62-0.96; p < 0.05), GLP-1ra (OR 0.86; 95% CI 0.81-0.92; p < 0.05), and SGLT 2i (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.79-0.97; p < 0.05) were also associated with a decreased risk of hospitalization, but insulin were associated with an increased risk of hospitalization (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.12-1.52; p < 0.05). Nevertheless, the results of the subgroup analyses showed that the effects of different glucose-lowering agents on COVID-19 may be related to in-hospital use or out-hospital use, elderly or non-elderly patients use, and different geography.

CONCLUSION

Metformin, GLP-1ra, and SGLT 2i have shown a positive effect on clinical outcomes in COVID-19, particularly in non-elderly individuals. However, insulin use may pose a higher risk, especially in elderly patients, so need with caution. Meanwhile, DPP-4i, TZD, α-GLUi, and sulfonylureas appeared to have a neutral effect. These results need to be validated in future clinical studies.

Application of a data continuity prediction algorithm to an electronic health record-based pharmacoepidemiology study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Use of algorithms to identify patients with high data-continuity in electronic health records (EHRs) may increase study validity. Practical experience with this approach remains limited.

METHODS

We developed and validated four algorithms to identify patients with high data continuity in an EHR-based data source. Selected algorithms were then applied to a pharmacoepidemiologic study comparing rates of COVID-19 hospitalization in patients exposed to insulin versus noninsulin antidiabetic drugs.

RESULTS

A model using a short list of five EHR-derived variables performed as well as more complex models to distinguish high- from low-data continuity patients. Higher data continuity was associated with more accurate ascertainment of key variables. In the pharmacoepidemiologic study, patients with higher data continuity had higher observed rates of the COVID-19 outcome and a large unadjusted association between insulin use and the outcome, but no association after propensity score adjustment.

DISCUSSION

We found that a simple, portable algorithm to predict data continuity gave comparable performance to more complex methods. Use of the algorithm significantly impacted the results of an empirical study, with evidence of more valid results at higher levels of data continuity.

Bile acids and coronavirus disease 2019

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has been significantly alleviated. However, long-term health effects and prevention strategy remain unresolved. Thus, it is essential to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms and intervention for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging research indicates a link between COVID-19 and bile acids, traditionally known for facilitating dietary fat absorption. The bile acid ursodeoxycholic acid potentially protects against SARS-CoV-2 infection by inhibiting the farnesoid X receptor, a bile acid nuclear receptor. The activation of G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor, another membrane receptor for bile acids, has also been found to regulate the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, the receptor through which the virus enters human cells. Here, we review the latest basic and clinical evidence linking bile acids to SARS-CoV-2, and reveal their complicated pathophysiological mechanisms.

Association of SGLT2i vs DPP4i With Pneumonia, COVID-19, and Other Adverse Respiratory Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Our aim in this study was to systematically assess the association of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) vs dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) with pneumonia, COVID-19, and adverse respiratory events in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were retrieved to include studies on DM patients receiving SGLT2i (exposure group) or DPP4i (control group). Stata version 15.0 statistical software was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included, all 10 of which were used for the qualitative review and 7 for the meta-analysis. According to the meta-analysis, patients receiving SGLT2i had a lower incidence of pneumonia (odds ratio [OR] 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.51 to 0.74) and pneumonia risk (OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.68, p=0.000) compared with those receiving DPP4i. The same situation was seen for mortality for pneumonia (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.60) and pneumonia mortality risk (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.51). There was lower mortality due to COVID-19 (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.34) and a lower hospitalization rate (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.68, p=0.000) and incidence of mechanical ventilation (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.83, p=0.000) due to COVID-19 in patients with type 2 DM receiving SGLT2i. Qualitative analysis results show that SGLT2i was associated with a lower incidence of COVID-19, lower risk of obstructive airway disease events, and lower hospitalization rate of health-care-associated pneumonia than DPP4i.

CONCLUSION

In patients with type 2 DM, SGLT2i are associated with a lower risk of pneumonia, COVID-19, and mortality than DPP4i.

View on Metformin: Antidiabetic and Pleiotropic Effects, Pharmacokinetics, Side Effects, and Sex-Related Differences

Metformin is a synthetic biguanide used as an antidiabetic drug in type 2 diabetes mellitus, achieved by studying the bioactive metabolites of Galega officinalis L. It is also used off-label for various other diseases, such as subclinical diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. In addition, metformin is proposed as an add-on therapy for several conditions, including autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Although metformin has been used for many decades, it is still the subject of many pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies in light of its extensive use. Metformin acts at the mitochondrial level by inhibiting the respiratory chain, thus increasing the AMP/ATP ratio and, subsequently, activating the AMP-activated protein kinase. However, several other mechanisms have been proposed, including binding to presenilin enhancer 2, increasing GLP1 release, and modification of microRNA expression. Regarding its pharmacokinetics, after oral administration, metformin is absorbed, distributed, and eliminated, mainly through the renal route, using transporters for cationic solutes, since it exists as an ionic molecule at physiological pH. In this review, particular consideration has been paid to literature data from the last 10 years, deepening the study of clinical trials inherent to new uses of metformin, the differences in effectiveness and safety observed between the sexes, and the unwanted side effects. For this last objective, metformin safety was also evaluated using both VigiBase and EudraVigilance, respectively, the WHO and European databases of the reported adverse drug reactions, to assess the extent of metformin side effects in real-life use.

Understanding the action mechanisms of metformin in the gastrointestinal tract

Metformin is the initial medication recommended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In addition to diabetes treatment, the function of metformin also can be anti-aging, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. Nevertheless, further exploration is required to fully understand its mode of operation. Historically, the liver has been acknowledged as the main location where metformin reduces glucose levels, however, there is increasing evidence suggesting that the gastrointestinal tract also plays a significant role in its action. In the gastrointestinal tract, metformin effects glucose uptake and absorption, increases glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion, alters the composition and structure of the gut microbiota, and modulates the immune response. However, the side effects of it cannot be ignored such as gastrointestinal distress in patients. This review outlines the impact of metformin on the digestive system and explores potential explanations for variations in metformin effectiveness and adverse effects like gastrointestinal discomfort.

Is Metformin Use Associated with a More Favorable COVID-19 Course in People with Diabetes?

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) has been associated with a higher Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) mortality, both in hospitalized patients and in the general population. A possible beneficial effect of metformin on the prognosis of COVID-19 has been reported in some observational studies, whereas other studies disagree. Methods: To investigate the possible effect of metformin on COVID-19 in-hospital mortality, we performed a retrospective study that included all SARS-CoV-2-positive patients with DM who were admitted to two Italian hospitals. In order to adjust for possible confounders accounting for the observed reduction of mortality in metformin users, we adopted the COVID-19 Mortality Risk Score (COVID-19 MRS) as a covariate. Results: Out of the 524 included patients, 33.4% died. A binomial logistic regression showed that metformin use was associated with a significant reduction in case fatality (OR 0.67 [0.45-0.98], p = 0.039), with no significant effect on the need for ventilation (OR 0.75 [0.5-1.11], p = 0.146). After adjusting for COVID-19 MRS, metformin did not retain a significant association with in-hospital mortality [OR 0.795 (0.495-1.277), p = 0.342]. Conclusions: A beneficial effect of metformin on COVID-19 was not proven after adjusting for confounding factors. The use of validated tools to stratify the risk for COVID-19 severe disease and death, such as COVID-19 MRS, may be useful to better explore the potential association of medications and comorbidities with COVID-19 prognosis.

Long-term benefits of dapagliflozin on renal outcomes of type 2 diabetes under routine care: a comparative effectiveness study on propensity score matched cohorts at low renal risk

Background

Despite the overall improvement in care, people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) experience an excess risk of end-stage kidney disease. We evaluated the long-term effectiveness of dapagliflozin on kidney function and albuminuria in patients with T2D.

Methods

We included patients with T2D who initiated dapagliflozin or comparators from 2015 to 2020. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the two groups. The primary endpoint was the change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline to the end of observation. Secondary endpoints included changes in albuminuria and loss of kidney function.

Findings

We analysed two matched groups of 6197 patients each. The comparator group included DPP-4 inhibitors (40%), GLP-1RA (22.3%), sulphonylureas (16.1%), pioglitazone (8%), metformin (5.8%), or acarbose (4%). Only 6.4% had baseline eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and 15% had UACR >30 mg/g. During a mean follow-up of 2.5 year, eGFR declined significantly less in the dapagliflozin vs comparator group by 1.81 ml/min/1.73 m2 (95% C.I. from 1.13 to 2.48; p < 0.0001). The mean eGFR slope was significantly less negative in the dapagliflozin group by 0.67 ml/min/1.73 m2/year (95% C.I. from 0.47 to 0.88; p < 0.0001). Albuminuria declined significantly in new-users of dapagliflozin within 6 months and remained on average 44.3 mg/g lower (95% C.I. from -66.9 to -21.7; p < 0.0001) than in new-users of comparators. New-users of dapagliflozin had significantly lower rates of new-onset CKD, loss of kidney function, and a composite renal outcome. Results were confirmed for all SGLT2 inhibitors, in patients without baseline CKD, and when GLP-1RA were excluded from comparators.

Interpretation

Initiating dapagliflozin improved kidney function outcomes and albuminuria in patients with T2D and a low renal risk.

Funding

Funded by the Italian Diabetes Society and partly supported by a grant from AstraZeneca.

Mechanisms of endothelial activation, hypercoagulation and thrombosis in COVID-19: a link with diabetes mellitus

Early since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the medical and scientific community were aware of extra respiratory actions of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Endothelitis, hypercoagulation, and hypofibrinolysis were identified in COVID-19 patients as subsequent responses of endothelial dysfunction. Activation of the endothelial barrier may increase the severity of the disease and contribute to long-COVID syndrome and post-COVID sequelae. Besides, it may cause alterations in primary, secondary, and tertiary hemostasis. Importantly, these responses have been highly decisive in the evolution of infected patients also diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM), who showed previous endothelial dysfunction. In this review, we provide an overview of the potential triggers of endothelial activation related to COVID-19 and COVID-19 under diabetic milieu. Several mechanisms are induced by both the viral particle itself and by the subsequent immune-defensive response (i.e., NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, vasoactive peptides, cytokine storm, NETosis, activation of the complement system). Alterations in coagulation mediators such as factor VIII, fibrin, tissue factor, the von Willebrand factor: ADAMST-13 ratio, and the kallikrein-kinin or plasminogen-plasmin systems have been reported. Moreover, an imbalance of thrombotic and thrombolytic (tPA, PAI-I, fibrinogen) factors favors hypercoagulation and hypofibrinolysis. In the context of DM, these mechanisms can be exacerbated leading to higher loss of hemostasis. However, a series of therapeutic strategies targeting the activated endothelium such as specific antibodies or inhibitors against thrombin, key cytokines, factor X, complement system, the kallikrein-kinin system or NETosis, might represent new opportunities to address this hypercoagulable state present in COVID-19 and DM. Antidiabetics may also ameliorate endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and platelet aggregation. By improving the microvascular pathology in COVID-19 and post-COVID subjects, the associated comorbidities and the risk of mortality could be reduced.

The risk of common hypoglycemic and antihypertensive medications and COVID-19: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

It has been reported that diabetes and hypertension increase the adverse outcomes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Aside from the inherent factors of diabetes and hypertension, it remains unclear whether antidiabetic or antihypertensive medications contribute to the increased adverse outcomes of COVID-19. The effect of commonly used antidiabetic and antihypertensive medications on COVID-19 outcomes has been inconsistently concluded in existing observational studies. Conducting a systematic study on the causal relationship between these medications and COVID-19 would be beneficial in guiding their use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

We employed the 2-sample Mendelian randomization approach to assess the causal relationship between 5 commonly used antidiabetic medications (SGLT-2 inhibitors, Sulfonylureas, Insulin analogues, Thiazolidinediones, GLP-1 analogues) and 3 commonly used antihypertensive medications (calcium channel blockers [CCB], ACE inhibitors, β-receptor blockers [BB]), and COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severe outcomes. The genetic variations in the drug targets of the 5 antidiabetic medications and 3 antihypertensive medications were utilized as instrumental variables. European population-specific genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) data on COVID-19 from the Host Genetics Initiative meta-analyses were obtained, including COVID-19 susceptibility (n = 2597,856), COVID-19 hospitalization (n = 2095,324), and COVID-19 severity (n = 1086,211). The random-effects inverse variance-weighted estimation method was employed as the primary assessment technique, with various sensitivity analyses conducted to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

RESULTS

There were no potential associations between the genetic variations in the drug targets of the 5 commonly used antidiabetic medications (SGLT-2 inhibitors, Sulfonylureas, Insulin analogues, Thiazolidinediones, GLP-1 analogues) and the 3 commonly used antihypertensive medications (CCBs, ACE inhibitors, BBs) with COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severity (all P > .016).

CONCLUSION

The findings from this comprehensive Mendelian randomization analysis suggest that there may be no causal relationship between the 5 commonly used antidiabetic medications (SGLT-2 inhibitors, Sulfonylureas, Insulin analogues, Thiazolidinediones, GLP-1 analogues) and the 3 commonly used antihypertensive medications (CCBs, ACE inhibitors, BBs) with COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severity.

Safety and Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Advanced and End-Stage Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: Limited evidence exists regarding the safety and efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the safety and efficacy of GLP-1RAs in T2DM patients with advanced CKD and ESKD. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane database until 25 October 2023. Included were clinical trials and cohort studies reporting outcomes of GLP-1RAs in adult patients with T2DM and advanced CKD. Outcome measures encompassed mortality, cardiovascular parameters, blood glucose, and weight. Safety was assessed for adverse events. The differences in effects were expressed as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and the weighted mean difference or standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals for continuous outcomes. The Risk of Bias In Non-randomized Studies-of Interventions (ROBIN-I) tool was used in cohort and non-randomized controlled studies, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB 2) tool was used in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD 42023398452) and received no external funding. Results: Eight studies (five trials and three cohort studies) consisting of 27,639 patients were included in this meta-analysis. No difference was observed in one-year mortality. However, GLP-1RAs significantly reduced cardiothoracic ratio (SMD of -1.2%; 95% CI -2.0, -0.4) and pro-BNP (SMD -335.9 pmol/L; 95% CI -438.9, -232.8). There was no significant decrease in systolic blood pressure. Moreover, GLP-1RAs significantly reduced mean blood glucose (SMD -1.1 mg/dL; 95% CI -1.8, -0.3) and increased weight loss (SMD -2.2 kg; 95% CI -2.9, -1.5). In terms of safety, GLP-1RAs were associated with a 3.8- and 35.7-time higher risk of nausea and vomiting, respectively, but were not significantly associated with a higher risk of hypoglycemia. Conclusions: Despite the limited number of studies in each analysis, our study provides evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of GLP-1RAs among T2DM patients with advanced CKD and ESKD. While gastrointestinal side effects may occur, GLP-1RAs demonstrate significant improvements in blood glucose control, weight reduction, and potential benefit in cardiovascular outcomes.

4. Comprehensive Medical Evaluation and Assessment of Comorbidities: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, an interprofessional expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Association of Metformin, Dipeptidyl Dipeptidase-4 Inhibitors, and Insulin with Coronavirus Disease 2019-Related Hospital Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

The effects of diabetes medications on COVID-19 hospitalization outcomes have not been consistent. We sought to determine the effect of metformin, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i), and insulin on admission to the intensive care unit (ICU), need for assisted ventilation, development of renal insufficiency, and mortality in patients admitted with COVID-19 infection after controlling for clinical variables and other relevant diabetes-related medications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 from a single hospital system. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed that included demographic data, glycated hemoglobin, kidney function, smoking status, insurance, Charlson comorbidity index, number of diabetes medications, and use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and statin prior to admission and glucocorticoids during admission.

RESULTS

A total of 529 patients with type 2 DM were included in our final analysis. Neither metformin nor DPP4i prescription was associated with ICU admission, need for assisted ventilation, or mortality. Insulin prescription was associated with increased ICU admission but not with need for assisted ventilation or mortality. There was no association of any of these medications with development of renal insufficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

In this population, limited to type 2 DM and controlled for multiple variables that have not been consistently studied (such as a measure of general health, glycated hemoglobin, and insurance status), insulin prescription was associated with increased ICU admission. Metformin and DPP4i prescriptions did not have an association with the outcomes.

The Impact of GLP-1 RAs and DPP-4is on Hospitalisation and Mortality in the COVID-19 Era: A Two-Year Observational Study

Novel antidiabetic drugs have the ability to produce anti-inflammatory effects regardless of their glucose-lowering action. For this reason, these molecules (including GLP-1 RAs and DPP-4is) were hypothesized to be effective against COVID-19, which is characterized by cytokines hyperactivity and multiorgan inflammation. The aim of our work is to explore the potential protective role of GLP-1 RAs and DPP-4is in COVID-19 (with the disease intended to be a model of an acute stressor) and non-COVID-19 patients over a two-year observation period. Retrospective and one-versus-one analyses were conducted to assess the impact of antidiabetic drugs on the need for hospitalization (in both COVID-19- and non-COVID-19-related cases), in-hospital mortality, and two-year mortality. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the variables associated with these outcomes. Additionally, log-rank tests were used to plot survival curves for each group of subjects, based on their antidiabetic treatment. The performed analyses revealed that despite similar hospitalization rates, subjects undergoing home therapy with GLP-1 RAs exhibited significantly lower mortality rates, even over a two-year period. These individuals demonstrated improved survival estimates both within hospital and non-hospital settings, even during a longer observation period.

Risk analysis of COVID-19 hospitalization and critical care by race and region in the United States: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to identify the current risk factors for coronavirus disease 2019 severity and examine its association with medication use.

METHODS

We used data from a large United States electronic health record database to conduct an anonymized cohort study of 171,491 patients with coronavirus disease 2019. The study was conducted from January 1, 2020, to August 27, 2021. Data on age, race, sex, history of diseases, and history of medication prescriptions were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model analysis to calculate hazard ratios for hospitalization and severe risk.

RESULTS

Factors that increased the risk of hospitalization and critical care were age ≥ 65 years, male sex, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, interstitial pneumonia, and cardiovascular disease. In particular, age ≥ 65 years significantly increased the risk of hospitalization (hazard ratio, 2.81 [95% confidence interval, 2.58-3.07]; P < 0.001) and critical care (hazard ratio, 3.45 [2.88-4.14]; P < 0.001). In contrast, patients with hyperlipidemia had a reduced risk. However, patients with hyperlipidemia who were not taking statins had a significantly increased risk of hospitalization (hazard ratio, 1.24 [1.16-1.34]; P < 0.001). Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, glucocorticoids, and statins significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization and critical care. The risk of hospitalization and critical care increased in patients of all ethnicities with type 2 diabetes. The factors that significantly increased the risk of hospitalization in all regions were older age, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular disease.

CONCLUSION

This study identified factors that increase or reduce the risk of severe coronavirus disease. The provision of appropriate drug treatment and modification of lifestyle-related risk factors may reduce coronavirus disease severity.

Risk phenotypes of diabetes and association with COVID-19 severity and death: an update of a living systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

To provide a systematic overview of the current body of evidence on high-risk phenotypes of diabetes associated with COVID-19 severity and death.

METHODS

This is the first update of our recently published living systematic review and meta-analysis. Observational studies investigating phenotypes in individuals with diabetes and confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection with regard to COVID-19-related death and severity were included. The literature search was conducted from inception up to 14 February 2022 in PubMed, Epistemonikos, Web of Science and the COVID-19 Research Database and updated using PubMed alert to 1 December 2022. A random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate summary relative risks (SRRs) with 95% CIs. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool and the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

A total of 169 articles (147 new studies) based on approximately 900,000 individuals were included. We conducted 177 meta-analyses (83 on COVID-19-related death and 94 on COVID-19 severity). Certainty of evidence was strengthened for associations between male sex, older age, blood glucose level at admission, chronic insulin use, chronic metformin use (inversely) and pre-existing comorbidities (CVD, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and COVID-19-related death. New evidence with moderate to high certainty emerged for the association between obesity (SRR [95% CI] 1.18 [1.04, 1.34], n=21 studies), HbA1c (53-75 mmol/mol [7-9%]: 1.18 [1.06, 1.32], n=8), chronic glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use (0.83 [0.71, 0.97], n=9), pre-existing heart failure (1.33 [1.21, 1.47], n=14), pre-existing liver disease (1.40 [1.17, 1.67], n=6), the Charlson index (per 1 unit increase: 1.33 [1.13, 1.57], n=2), high levels of C-reactive protein (per 5 mg/l increase: 1.07 [1.02, 1.12], n=10), aspartate aminotransferase level (per 5 U/l increase: 1.28 [1.06, 1.54], n=5), eGFR (per 10 ml/min per 1.73 m2 increase: 0.80 [0.71, 0.90], n=6), lactate dehydrogenase level (per 10 U/l increase: 1.03 [1.01, 1.04], n=7) and lymphocyte count (per 1×109/l increase: 0.59 [0.40, 0.86], n=6) and COVID-19-related death. Similar associations were observed between risk phenotypes of diabetes and severity of COVID-19, with some new evidence on existing COVID-19  vaccination status (0.32 [0.26, 0.38], n=3), pre-existing hypertension (1.23 [1.14, 1.33], n=49), neuropathy and cancer, and high IL-6 levels. A limitation of this study is that the included studies are observational in nature and residual or unmeasured confounding cannot be ruled out.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Individuals with a more severe course of diabetes and pre-existing comorbidities had a poorer prognosis of COVID-19 than individuals with a milder course of the disease.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020193692.

PREVIOUS VERSION

This is a living systematic review and meta-analysis. The previous version can be found at https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-021-05458-8 FUNDING: The German Diabetes Center (DDZ) is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State North Rhine-Westphalia. This study was supported in part by a grant from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research to the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD).

Metformin: update on mechanisms of action and repurposing potential

Currently, metformin is the first-line medication to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in most guidelines and is used daily by >200 million patients. Surprisingly, the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic action are complex and are still not fully understood. Early evidence highlighted the liver as the major organ involved in the effect of metformin on reducing blood levels of glucose. However, increasing evidence points towards other sites of action that might also have an important role, including the gastrointestinal tract, the gut microbial communities and the tissue-resident immune cells. At the molecular level, it seems that the mechanisms of action vary depending on the dose of metformin used and duration of treatment. Initial studies have shown that metformin targets hepatic mitochondria; however, the identification of a novel target at low concentrations of metformin at the lysosome surface might reveal a new mechanism of action. Based on the efficacy and safety records in T2DM, attention has been given to the repurposing of metformin as part of adjunct therapy for the treatment of cancer, age-related diseases, inflammatory diseases and COVID-19. In this Review, we highlight the latest advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of action of metformin and discuss potential emerging novel therapeutic uses.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) level, but not ACE gene polymorphism, is associated with prognosis of COVID-19 infection: Implications for diabetes and hypertension

BACKGROUND

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system was shown to be activated in severe COVID-19 infection. We aimed to investigate the relationship between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) levels, ACE gene polymorphism, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and hypertension (HT) and the prognosis of COVID-19 infection.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study analyzed the clinical features of adult patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. ACE gene analysis and ACE level measurements were performed. The patients were grouped according to ACE gene polymorphism (DD, ID or II), disease severity (mild, moderate, or severe), and the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 enzyme inhibitor (DPP4i), ACE-inhibitor (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). Intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and mortality were also recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 266 patients were enrolled. Gene analysis detected DD polymorphism in the ACE 1 gene in 32.7% (n = 87), ID in 51.5% (n = 137), and II in 15.8% (n = 42) of the patients. ACE gene polymorphisms were not associated with disease severity, ICU admission, or mortality. ACE levels were higher in patients who died (p = 0.004) or were admitted to the ICU (p<0.001) and in those with severe disease compared to cases with mild (p = 0.023) or moderate (p<0.001) disease. HT, T2DM, and ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use were not associated with mortality or ICU admission. ACE levels were similar in patients with or without HT (p = 0.374) and with HT using or not using ACEi/ARB (p = 0.999). They were also similar in patients with and without T2DM (p = 0.062) and in those with and without DPP4i treatment (p = 0.427). ACE level was a weak predictor of mortality but an important predictor of ICU admission. It predicted ICU admission in total (cutoff value >37.092 ng/mL, AUC: 0.775, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that higher ACE levels, but not ACE gene polymorphism, ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use, were associated with the prognosis of COVID-19 infection. The presence of HT and T2DM and ACEi/ARB or DPP4i use were not associated with mortality or ICU admission.

Use of Real-World Data in Population Science to Improve the Prevention and Care of Diabetes-Related Outcomes

The past decade of population research for diabetes has seen a dramatic proliferation of the use of real-world data (RWD) and real-world evidence (RWE) generation from non-research settings, including both health and non-health sources, to influence decisions related to optimal diabetes care. A common attribute of these new data is that they were not collected for research purposes yet have the potential to enrich the information around the characteristics of individuals, risk factors, interventions, and health effects. This has expanded the role of subdisciplines like comparative effectiveness research and precision medicine, new quasi-experimental study designs, new research platforms like distributed data networks, and new analytic approaches for clinical prediction of prognosis or treatment response. The result of these developments is a greater potential to progress diabetes treatment and prevention through the increasing range of populations, interventions, outcomes, and settings that can be efficiently examined. However, this proliferation also carries an increased threat of bias and misleading findings. The level of evidence that may be derived from RWD is ultimately a function of the data quality and the rigorous application of study design and analysis. This report reviews the current landscape and applications of RWD in clinical effectiveness and population health research for diabetes and summarizes opportunities and best practices in the conduct, reporting, and dissemination of RWD to optimize its value and limit its drawbacks.

Metabolic alterations upon SARS-CoV-2 infection and potential therapeutic targets against coronavirus infection

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 infection has become a global pandemic due to the high viral transmissibility and pathogenesis, bringing enormous burden to our society. Most patients infected by SARS-CoV-2 are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. Although only a small proportion of patients progressed to severe COVID-19 with symptoms including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated coagulopathy, and cardiovascular disorders, severe COVID-19 is accompanied by high mortality rates with near 7 million deaths. Nowadays, effective therapeutic patterns for severe COVID-19 are still lacking. It has been extensively reported that host metabolism plays essential roles in various physiological processes during virus infection. Many viruses manipulate host metabolism to avoid immunity, facilitate their own replication, or to initiate pathological response. Targeting the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and host metabolism holds promise for developing therapeutic strategies. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent studies dedicated to uncovering the role of host metabolism during the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2 in aspects of entry, replication, assembly, and pathogenesis with an emphasis on glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. Microbiota and long COVID-19 are also discussed. Ultimately, we recapitulate metabolism-modulating drugs repurposed for COVID-19 including statins, ASM inhibitors, NSAIDs, Montelukast, omega-3 fatty acids, 2-DG, and metformin.

Routine care for people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic - results from the German Disease Analyzer database

AIM

To investigate whether the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic affected care for people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in Germany.

METHODS

The Disease Analyzer database (IQVIA, Germany) contains routine data on diagnoses and treatments (ICD-10 and ATC codes) from patients followed in selected physician practices across Germany. We compared 21,747 individuals with a first diagnosis of type 2 diabetes between January 2018 and September 2019 with 20,513 individuals with a first diabetes diagnosis between March 2020 and November 2021.

RESULTS

In March and April 2020, the number of new diagnoses of diabetes decreased by 18.3% and 35.7%, respectively, compared to March and April of the previous two years. The previous diabetes incidence level was reached again in June 2020. Mean pre-treatment glucose levels were higher during the pandemic than before (fasting plasma glucose: +6.3 mg/dl (95% confidence interval: 4.6-8.0)). In the first six months after diabetes diagnosis, the mean number of GP visits, specialist referrals and HbA1c measurements decreased.

CONCLUSION

We observed a decrease in diabetes incidence in the early phase of the pandemic and slightly higher pretreatment blood glucose levels during the pandemic than before. Care for newly diagnosed diabetes was slightly worse during the pandemic than before.

Prescribing trends of glucose-lowering drugs in older adults from 2010 to 2021: a population-based study of Northern Italy

AIMS

To describe glucose-lowering drugs prescribing pattern in a large population of older diabetics from 2010 to 2021.

METHODS

Using linkable administrative health databases, we included patients aged 65-90 years treated with glucose-lowering drugs. Prevalence rate of drugs was collected within each study year. A stratified analysis by gender, age and coexistence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 251 737 and 308 372 patients were identified in 2010 and 2021, respectively. Use of metformin (68.4% to 76.6%), DPP-4i (1.6% to 18.4%), GLP-1-RA (0.4% to 10.2%), SGLT2i (0.6% to 11.1%) increased, while sulfonylureas (53.6% to 20.7%) and glinides (10.5% to 3.5%) decreased over time. Metformin, glitazones, GLP1-RA, SGLT2i and DPP4i (except for 2021) usage decreased with aging, in contrast to sulfonylureas, glinides and insulin. The coexistence of CVD was associated with a higher prescription of glinides, insulin, DPP-4i, GLP1-RA and SGLT2i, particularly in 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a significant increase in the prescriptions of GLP-1 RA and SGLT2i in older diabetics, mainly in those with CVD. However, drugs without CV benefits including sulfonylureas and DPP-4i continued to be highly prescribed in older patients. There is still room to improve the management in this population according to recommendations.

COVID-19 Outcomes and Diabetes Mellitus: A Comprehensive Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study

The link between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the severe outcomes of COVID-19 has raised concerns about the optimal management of patients with T2D. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of T2D patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and explore the potential associations between chronic T2D treatments and adverse outcomes. This was a multicenter prospective cohort study of T2D patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in Greece during the third wave of the pandemic (February-June 2021). Among the 354 T2D patients included in this study, 63 (18.6%) died during hospitalization, and 16.4% required ICU admission. The use of DPP4 inhibitors for the chronic management of T2D was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital death (adjusted odds ratio (adj. OR) 2.639, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.148-6.068, p = 0.022), ICU admission (adj. OR = 2.524, 95% CI: 1.217-5.232, p = 0.013), and progression to ARDS (adj. OR = 2.507, 95% CI: 1.278-4.916, p = 0.007). Furthermore, the use of DPP4 inhibitors was significantly associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic events (adjusted OR of 2.249, 95% CI: 1.073-4.713, p = 0.032) during hospitalization. These findings highlight the importance of considering the potential impact of chronic T2D treatment regiments on COVID-19 and the need for further studies to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Looking ahead to potential incretin combination therapies for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis in patients with diabetes

INTRODUCTION

There are no drugs approved by regulatory agencies for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); incretin combination therapies are being developed for treatment of type 2 diabetes and research has moved to test their usefulness in NAFLD.

AREAS COVERED

We reviewed the literature on the effectiveness of dual and triple peptides combining receptor agonists of the glucagon-like peptide 1, the glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, and glucagon to treat NAFLD and its associated metabolic diseases, and/or the cardiovascular risk intimately connected with the cluster of the metabolic syndrome. Other combination peptides involved the glucagon-like peptide 2 receptor, the fibroblast growth factor 21, the cholecystokinin receptor 2, and the amylin receptor.

EXPERT OPINION

Both dual and triple agonists are promising, based on animal, pharmacokinetic and proof-of concept studies, showing effectiveness both in the presence and the absence of diabetes on a few validated surrogate NAFLD biomarkers, but the majority of studies are still in progress. Considering the long natural history of NAFLD, final proof of their efficacy on primary clinical liver outcomes might be also derived from the analysis of large databases of National Healthcare Systems or Insurance companies, when used in diabetes for improving glycemic control, after careful propensity-score matching.

Changes in the use of glucose-lowering drugs: A Danish nationwide study

AIM

To investigate changes in the pattern of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes in Denmark from 2005 to 2021.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A nationwide, population-based drug utilization study based on medical databases covering the Danish population was conducted. We assessed incident and prevalent use patterns among all 441 205 individuals initiating at least one non-insulin, glucose-lowering drug.

RESULTS

The rate of new users of non-insulin, glucose-lowering drugs increased from 2005, peaked in 2011, decreased to stable levels during 2013 to 2019, then increased dramatically during 2020-2021. The prevalence of use increased from 2.1% (in 2005) to 5.0% (in 2021) of the entire adult population. In 2021, metformin comprised 39% of all glucose-lowering drug consumption, followed by insulin (17%), sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) (17%), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) (16%) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (7.5%). Overall, 56% of users were on monotherapy, 28% used dual therapy, while 13% and 2.8% used three and four drug classes, respectively. Both the intensity and diversity of therapies increased substantially over time, with 15 different treatment regimens each covering more than 1% of users in 2021. General practitioners prescribed 88% of all glucose-lowering drugs. Marked shifts towards GLP-1RA initiation by general practitioners and SGLT-2i initiation by specialists were observed, and changing user profiles suggested increasing use for non-diabetes indications.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of new users of non-insulin, glucose-lowering drugs has increased in recent years and the prevalence of glucose-lowering drug use increases steadily. Glucose-lowering drugs are mainly prescribed by general practitioners, and the intensity, diversity and indications of glucose-lowering treatment are increasing.

Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors, Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, and Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors and COVID-19 Outcomes

PURPOSE

It has been reported that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) have a role in modulation of inflammation associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study assessed the effect of these drug classes on COVID-19-related outcomes.

METHODS

Using a COVID-19 linkable administrative database, we selected patients aged ≥40 years with at least 2 prescriptions of DPP-4i, GLP-1 RA, or SGLT-2i or any other antihyperglycemic drug and a diagnosis of COVID-19 from February 15, 2020, to March 15, 2021. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were used to calculate the association between treatments and all-cause and in-hospital mortality and COVID-19-related hospitalization. A sensitivity analysis was performed by using inverse probability treatment weighting.

FINDINGS

Overall, 32,853 subjects were included in the analysis. Multivariable models showed a reduction of the risk for COVID-19 outcomes for users of DPP-4i, GLP-1 RA, and SGLT-2i compared with nonusers, although statistical significance was reached only in DPP-4i users for total mortality (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.82-0.97). The sensitivity analysis confirmed the main results reaching a significant reduction for hospital admission in GLP-1 RA users and in-hospital mortality in SGLT-2i users compared with nonusers.

IMPLICATIONS

This study found a beneficial effect in the risk reduction of COVID-19 total mortality in DPP-4i users compared with nonusers. A positive trend was also observed in users of GLP-1 RA and SGLT-2i compared with nonusers. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the effect of these drug classes as potential therapy for the treatment of COVID-19.

Use of Structured Template and Reporting Tool for Real-World Evidence for Critical Appraisal of the Quality of Reporting of Real-World Evidence Studies: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

Real-world evidence (RWE) studies are increasingly being used to support healthcare decisions. Various frameworks, tools, and checklists exist for ensuring quality of real-world data, designing robust studies, and assessing potential for bias. In January 2021, Structured Template and Reporting Tool for RWE (STaRT-RWE) was released to further reduce ambiguity, assumptions, and misinterpretation while planning, implementing, and reporting RWE studies of the safety and effectiveness of treatments. The objective of this study was to identify gaps in the reporting quality of published RWE studies by using this template for critical appraisal.

METHODS

Two reviewers conducted a keyword search on PubMed for free-full-text research articles using real-world data, RWE design, and safety with or without effectiveness outcomes of a medicinal product or intervention in humans of any age or gender, published in English between January 13, 2021, and January 13, 2022. Assessment of risk of bias was done using Assessment of Real-World Observational Studies critical appraisal tool. Deficiencies in methods and findings as per STaRT-RWE template were reported as frequencies.

RESULTS

A total of 54 of 2374 retrieved studies were included in the review. Based on the STaRT-RWE template, the studies inadequately reported empirically defined covariates, power and sample size calculation, attrition, sensitivity analyses, index date (day 0) defining criterion, predefined covariates, outcome, metadata about data source and software, objective, inclusion and exclusion criteria, analysis specifications, and follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of STaRT-RWE template along with its tables, design diagram, and library of published studies has a potential of improving robustness of RWE studies.

Ethnic disparities in COVID-19 outcomes: a multinational cohort study of 20 million individuals from England and Canada

BACKGROUND

Heterogeneous studies have demonstrated ethnic inequalities in the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and adverse COVID-19 outcomes. This study evaluates the association between ethnicity and COVID-19 outcomes in two large population-based cohorts from England and Canada and investigates potential explanatory factors for ethnic patterning of severe outcomes.

METHODS

We identified adults aged 18 to 99 years in the QResearch primary care (England) and Ontario (Canada) healthcare administrative population-based datasets (start of follow-up: 24th and 25th Jan 2020 in England and Canada, respectively; end of follow-up: 31st Oct and 30th Sept 2020, respectively). We harmonised the definitions and the design of two cohorts to investigate associations between ethnicity and COVID-19-related death, hospitalisation, and intensive care (ICU) admission, adjusted for confounders, and combined the estimates obtained from survival analyses. We calculated the 'percentage of excess risk mediated' by these risk factors in the QResearch cohort.

RESULTS

There were 9.83 million adults in the QResearch cohort (11,597 deaths; 21,917 hospitalisations; 2932 ICU admissions) and 10.27 million adults in the Ontario cohort (951 deaths; 5132 hospitalisations; 1191 ICU admissions). Compared to the general population, pooled random-effects estimates showed that South Asian ethnicity was associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 death (hazard ratio: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.09-2.44), hospitalisation (1.53; 1.32-1.76), and ICU admission (1.67; 1.23-2.28). Associations with ethnic groups were consistent across levels of deprivation. In QResearch, sociodemographic, lifestyle, and clinical factors accounted for 42.9% (South Asian) and 39.4% (Black) of the excess risk of COVID-19 death.

CONCLUSION

International population-level analyses demonstrate clear ethnic inequalities in COVID-19 risks. Policymakers should be cognisant of the increased risks in some ethnic populations and design equitable health policy as the pandemic continues.

Antidiabetic Treatment before Hospitalization and Admission Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, and SARS-CoV-2 Viral Infection

BACKGROUND

SARS-CoV-2 viral infection is a current and important topic for patients with comorbidities of type 2 diabetes and obesity, associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity. This study aims to analyze, compare and describe admission parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and SARS-CoV-2 infection based on whether they received insulin therapy before hospital admission.

METHODS

Our study enrolled patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, 81 patients without insulin treatment before hospital admission, and 81 patients with insulin at "Gavril Curteanu" Municipal Clinical Hospital of Oradea, Romania, between August 2020 and March 2022. RT-PCR/rapid antigen tests were used for detecting SARS-CoV-2 viral infection.

RESULTS

The severe form of COVID-19 was found in 66% of all patients (65% in the group without insulin and 67% in the group with insulin). Oxygen saturation at the time of hospital admission was greater or equal to 90% in 62% of all patients. The most associated comorbidities we founded in this study were: hypertension in 75% of all patients (grade two hypertension 63% in the group without insulin and 64% in the group with insulin), ischemic heart disease in 35% of patients (25% in the group without insulin and 44% in the group with insulin, n = 0.008), heart failure in 9.3% of all patients (8.6% in the group without insulin and 10% in the group with insulin). CRP and procalcitonin are increased in both groups at hospital admission, with a slightly higher trend in the group with insulin therapy before hospital admission. We found that 56% of patients in the group with insulin treatment were with uncontrolled diabetes on admission. Only 10% of patients required a change in antidiabetic treatment with insulin therapy at discharge. In our study, 89% of all patients did not require short-term home oxygen therapy at discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Antidiabetic therapy taken before hospital admission did not protect patients against cytokine storm in COVID-19, but is very important in the pathophysiological stage of comorbidities. Paraclinical parameters at hospitalization showed differences in correlation with oral antidiabetic treatment like metformin or insulin therapy. Changing the antidiabetic treatment for a small percentage of patients in the group who had not been receiving insulin therapy before discharge was necessary. It is necessary for future studies to see all changes involved in antidiabetic treatment in patients with diabetes type 2 and obesity after SARS-CoV2 viral infection and its long-term evolution.

Diabetes and the COVID-19 pandemic

Almost immediately after the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus emerged, it was evident that people with chronic diseases, including diabetes, were disproportionately affected, with an increased risk of hospitalisation and mortality. Over the ensuing 2 years, the indirect effects of the pandemic on healthcare delivery in the short term have become prominent, along with the lingering effects of the virus in those directly infected. In the wake of the pandemic and without any evidence from high quality studies, a number of national and international consensus recommendations were published, which were subsequently rapidly updated based on observational studies. There have been unprecedented disruptions from both direct and indirect impacts of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in people with diabetes. In this review, we summarise the impact of acute COVID-19 in people with diabetes, discuss how the presentation and epidemiology during the pandemic, including presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis and new-onset diabetes, has changed, and we consider the wider impact of the pandemic on patients and healthcare service delivery, including some of the areas of uncertainty. Finally, we make recommendations on prioritising patients as we move into the recovery phase and also how we protect people with diabetes for the future, as COVID-19 is likely to become endemic.

Metformin in SARS-CoV-2 infection: A hidden path - from altered inflammation to reduced mortality. A review from the literature

SARS-CoV-2 infection has been a major threat to human health and a huge challenge to Medicine. In only two years, COVID-19 affected >350 million people, causing >5.6 million deaths. Chronic inflammatory states, such as diabetes or obesity, are known risk factors for COVID-19 poorest outcomes, with higher risk for disease severity and greater mortality. Metformin remains on the first line of the management of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. Through its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms, metformin appears as an opportunity to control the dysregulated cytokine storm secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Recent studies point towards a potential protective role of metformin in the course of COVID-19, showing that current or previous treatment with metformin associates with better outcomes.

The Immune, Inflammatory and Hematological Response in COVID-19 Patients, According to the Severity of the Disease

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immune and inflammatory responses in COVID-19 patients by dosing specific IgM and IgG total antibodies and interleukin 6, correlating them with the hematological and biochemical blood parameters and comparing them by the form of the disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred twenty-five patients with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed COVID-19, hospitalized between 15.03.2020 and 1.07.2020 in the Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases "Sf. Parascheva" Iaşi, were tested by chemiluminescence for the presence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG and IL-6 in the serum. The results were correlated with the results of the CBC count and serum biochemical parameters detected on the admission day. The patients presented different forms of the disease (asymptomatic, mild, moderate, severe, and critical) according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for the clinical management of COVID-19.

RESULTS

The amplitude of the immune response was directly correlated with the form of the disease. In the asymptomatic/mild form patients, the IL-6 and CRP concentrations were significantly higher and eosinophil count was significantly lower compared with the reference interval. In the moderate form, the concentrations of IL-6, CRP, and IgG were significantly higher, compared with the reference interval, while eosinophil count and eGFR were significantly lower. In severe/critical COVID-19 patients, IL-6, CRP, NLR, PLR, glucose, AST, urea, creatinine, and eGFR were significantly higher compared with the reference interval, while eosinophil count was significantly lower. IL-6 boosted in all forms of COVID-19, with a major increase in severe and critical patients. IL-6, neutrophil count, % neutrophils, NLR, PLR, CRP, AST, and urea increased with the severity of the SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the lymphocyte count, % lymphocytes, eosinophil count, % eosinophils, and hemoglobin decreased with the increased severity of COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

The amplitude and the moment of appearance of the immune response depended on the form of the disease. IgM generally occurred in the first 14 days of illness, and IgG appeared beginning with the second week of disease. IgG titer increased rapidly until the fourth week of disease and decreased slowly after 4 weeks. The amplitudes of all the tested inflammatory and serological markers depended on the COVID-19 form, increasing somewhat in the moderate forms and even more in the critical ones. The lymphocyte and eosinophil count are able to predict the risk of severe COVID-19.

Effects of previous exposure to different medications on the clinical course of COVID-19 patients in Istanbul, Turkey

Background/Aim: Multiple studies have investigated the effects of drugs that alter ACE2 expression, such as renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and thiazolidinediones, on the clinical course of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). But a consensus has not yet been reached, and it has been stated that they do not have any effect. There are publications in which metformin is associated with low mortality and insulin with high mortality. Data from different parts of the world are important given that the rate of spread of COVID-19 may be related to the expression status of ACE2 or TMPRSS2 receptors or some other unknown genetic factors. This study aims to examine the effects of medications used chronically in the last 6 months before contracting COVID-19 on the clinical course of COVID-19 in a sample of Istanbul, Turkey. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, which included 525 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between March and November 2020 from four family health centers in Istanbul, the records of the patients were retrospectively analyzed. In addition to demographic information, all medications chronically used by the patients in the last 6 months before the diagnosis of COVID-19 were noted. The effects of demographic data and medications on the three main endpoints of the study, which were hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and mortality, were analyzed using logistic regression models. Results: Of the 525 COVID-19 patients included in the study, 109 (20.8%) were hospitalized, 18 (3.4%) were treated in ICU, and 11 (2.1%) patients died. Increasing age is associated with hospitalization, ICU admission and mortality. Also, the presence of COVID-19 thoracic computed tomography (CT) findings and polypharmacy was associated with increased hospitalization. Living alone and the presence of COVID-19 thoracic CT findings was associated with increased ICU admission. When adjusted for age and comorbidity, logistic regression models revealed that medications for diabetes mellitus (DM) increased the probability of hospitalization (OR: 3.9, 95% CI 1.2-13.0), and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) increased the probability of ICU admission (OR: 15.8, 95% CI 2.1–120.2) and mortality (OR: 295.1, 95% CI 4.6–18946.6). Conclusion: Previous use of DM medications and CCBs may negatively affect the clinical course of COVID-19.

4. Comprehensive Medical Evaluation and Assessment of Comorbidities: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2023

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Care in Diabetes" includes the ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations and a full list of Professional Practice Committee members, please refer to Introduction and Methodology. Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Pre-admission use of sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT-2i) may significantly improves Covid-19 outcomes in patients with diabetes: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression

AIMS

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of using sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT-2i) before hospital admission on Covid-19 outcomes in diabetic patients.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using specific keywords until October 24th, 2022 on 4 databases: Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov. All articles regarding SGLT-2i in diabetic patients with Covid-19 were included in the study. Outcomes in this study were calculated using random-effect models to generate pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 17 studies were included in the analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that pre-admission use of SGLT-2i was associated with reduced mortality (OR 0.69; 95 %CI: 0.56 - 0.87, p = 0.001, I² = 91 %) and severity of Covid-19 (OR 0.88; 95 %CI: 0.80 - 0.97, p = 0.008, I² = 13 %). This benefit of SGLT-2i on Covid-19 mortality was not significantly affected by patient's factors such as age (p = 0.2335), sex (p = 0.2742), hypertension (p = 0.2165), heart failure (p = 0.1616), HbA1c levels (p = 0.4924), metformin use (p = 0.6617), duration of diabetes (p = 0.7233), and BMI (p = 0.1797).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that SGLT-2i as glucose lowering treatment in patients with diabetes has a positive effect on Covid-19 outcomes, therefore can be considered as an antidiabetic drug of choice, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. Short Title: SGLT-2i in diabetes and Covid-19.

REGISTRATION DETAILS

CRD42022369784.

Association of Glucose-Lowering Drugs With Outcomes in Patients With Diabetes Before Hospitalization for COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

IMPORTANCE

Patients with COVID-19 have a high prevalence of diabetes, and diabetes and blood glucose control are determinants of intensive care unit admission and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between COVID-19-related adverse outcomes and 8 antihyperglycemic drugs in patients with diabetes who were subsequently diagnosed and hospitalized with COVID-19.

DATA SOURCES

Data were retrieved and collected in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov from database inception to September 5, 2022.

STUDY SELECTION

For this systematic review and network meta-analysis, randomized clinical trials and observational studies conducted among patients with diabetes while receiving glucose-lowering therapies for at least 14 days before the confirmation of COVID-19 infection were included after blinded review by 2 independent reviewers and consultations of disagreement by a third independent reviewer. Of 1802 studies initially identified, 31 observational studies met the criteria for further analysis.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

This study follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses reporting guideline. Bayesian network meta-analyses were performed with random effects.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

A composite adverse outcome, including the need for intensive care unit admission, invasive and noninvasive mechanical ventilation, or in-hospital death.

RESULTS

Thirty-one distinct observational studies (3 689 010 patients with diabetes hospitalized for COVID-19) were included. The sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) were associated with relatively lower risks of adverse outcomes compared with insulin (log of odds ratio [logOR], 0.91; 95% credible interval [CrI], 0.57-1.26), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (logOR, 0.61; 95% CrI, 0.28-0.93), secretagogues (logOR, 0.37; 95% CrI, 0.02-0.72), and glucosidase inhibitors (logOR, 0.50; 95% CrI, 0.00-1.01). Based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curves value, SGLT-2is were associated with the lowest probability for adverse outcomes (6%), followed by glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (25%) and metformin (28%). A sensitivity analysis revealed that the study was reliable.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings suggest that the use of an SGLT-2i before COVID-19 infection is associated with lower COVID-19-related adverse outcomes. In addition to SGLT-2is, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and metformin were also associated with relatively low risk of adverse outcomes.

Medications Associated with Lower Mortality in a SARS-CoV-2 Positive Cohort of 26,508 Veterans

BACKGROUND

Many severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive patients take commonly prescribed medications with properties which may affect mortality.

OBJECTIVE

Assess if common medications postulated to affect clinical outcomes are associated with mortality in SARS-CoV-2 positive patients in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

DESIGN

Observational national cohort analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Consecutive 26,508 SARS-CoV-2 positive Veterans (7% of 399,290 tested from March 1 to September 10, 2020) constitute the study cohort.

MAIN MEASURES

The primary outcome was 30-day mortality from the first positive SARS-CoV-2 test date. In patients receiving medications or drug pairs within 2 weeks post-SARS-CoV-2 positive test, 30-day mortality was estimated as relative risk (RR) on the log-binomial scale or using multinomial models with and without adjusting for covariates.

KEY RESULTS

The 26,508 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were predominantly male (89%) and White (59%), and 82% were overweight/obese. Medications associated with decreased 30-day mortality risk included the following: metformin (aRR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.25-0.43), colchicine, angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin II receptor blockers, statins, vitamin D, antihistamines, alpha-blockers, anti-androgens, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (aRR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.61-0.78). The effect of co-prescribed medications on 30-day mortality risk revealed the lowest risk for combined statins and metformin (aRR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.15-0.31), followed by ACEi and statins (aRR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.18-0.35), ACEi and metformin (aRR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.17-0.40), antihistamines and NSAIDs (aRR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.32-0.52), and in men, combined alpha-blockers and anti-androgens (aRR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.42-0.64).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large national cohort, treatment of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients with individual or co-prescribed metformin and statins, ACEi and statins (or metformin) and other medications was associated with a markedly decreased 30-day mortality and can likely be continued safely. Clinical trials may assess their therapeutic benefit.

Analysis of risk factors for COVID-19-related fatal outcome in 337991 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus in 2020–2022 years: Russian nationwide retrospective study

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus pandemic has had an extremely negative impact on the patients with diabetes mellitus (DM both in terms of a more severe course of COVID -19 and an increased risk of death.

AIM: Analysis of risk factors for death due to COVID -19 in patients with DM type 1 and type 2 (DM1 and DM2).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of the database of the national diabetes register (NDR), which included DM patients with COVID-19 and reported virus infection outcome (recovery/or death) in 15 712 DM1 and 322 279 DM2 patients during a 2-year follow-up period (01/02/2020 to 03/04/2022) (discharge date)).

RESULTS: Case fatality rate in patients with DM, who underwent COVID -19 was 17.1% (DM1–8.8%; DM2–17.5%). As a result of multivariate regression analysis of seven significant factors in DM1 and thirteen in DM2 (evaluated by univariate anlisys), a number of the most important predictors of risk for fatal outcome were identified: in DM1 these were age ≥65 years (OR =4.01, 95% CI: 1.42–11.36), presence of arterial hypertension (AH) (OR =2.72, 95% CI: 1.03 -7.16) and diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) (OR = 7.22, 95% CI: 1.98–26.29); for T2DM: age ≥ 65 years (OR =2.53, 95% CI: 1.96–3.27), male (OR =1.51, 95% CI: 1.23–1.84), duration DM ≥10 years (OR =2.01, 95% CI: 1.61–2.51), BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 (OR =1.26, 95% CI: 1.02–1.55), ASCVD/CKD (OR =1.49, 95% CI: 1.01–2.04), history of diabetic coma (OR =12.97, 95% CI: 1.89–88.99) and presence of disability ( OR =1.40, 95% CI: 1.14–1.73). In T2DM, the type of antidiabetic therapy (ADT) prior to COVID -19 (last visit before the development of infection) had a significant impact: Insulin therapy (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.30–2.07), sulfonylureas (SU) (OR =1.51, 95% CI: 1.23–1.84)); dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (iDPP-4) therapy (OR =0.57, 95% CI: 0.39–0.83) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (iSGLT2) therapy (OR =0.64, 95% CI: 0.46–0.88). Vaccination was the most important protective factor in both types of DM: DM1 OR =0.19, 95% CI: 0.06–0.59; SD2 OR =0.20, 95% CI: 0.16–0.26.

CONCLUSION: The common risk factor for fatal outcome in both DM1 and DM2 was age ≥65 years; in DM1 — history of hypertension and DFS, in DM2 — male sex, diabetes duration ≥10 years, BMI ≥30 kg/m2, history of ASCVD/CKD and diabetic coma, disability. In T2DM, significant differences in risk were observed depending on the type of ADT: insulin and SU therapy were factors that increased the risk of death, whereas therapy with iDPP-4 and iSGLT2 reduced the risk of death. Vaccination reduced the risk of death in DM1 and DM2 by 5.2 and 5-fold, respectively.

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors in COVID-19: Beyond glycemic control

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with a high risk of mortality and complications in patients with diabetes mellitus. Achieving good glycemic control is very important in diabetic patients to reduce complications and mortality due to COVID-19. Recent studies have shown the mortality benefit and anti-inflammatory effects of Dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) in diabetic patients with COVID-19. DPP-4i may have a beneficial role in halting the severity of infection primarily by three routes, namely viral entry inhibition, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects and glycemic control. This has raised the pro-mising hypothesis that DPP-4i might be an optimal strategy for treating COVID-19 in patients with diabetes. This review aims to summarise the possible therapeutic non-glycemic effects of DPP-4i in diabetic patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the light of available evidence.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and the Risk of Pneumonia and Septic Shock

CONTEXT

Individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) have an increased risk of pneumonia and septic shock. Traditional glucose-lowering drugs have recently been found to be associated with a higher risk of infections. It remains unclear whether sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), which have pleiotropic/anti-inflammatory effects, may reduce the risk of pneumonia and septic shock in DM.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception up to May 19, 2022, for randomized, placebo-controlled trials of SGLT2i that included patients with DM and reported outcomes of interest (pneumonia and/or septic shock). Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment (using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool) were conducted by independent authors. A fixed-effects model was used to pool the relative risk (RRs) and 95% CI across trials.

RESULTS

Out of 4568 citations, 26 trials with a total of 59 264 patients (1.9% developed pneumonia and 0.2% developed septic shock) were included. Compared with placebo, SGLT2is significantly reduced the risk of pneumonia (pooled RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.78-0.98) and septic shock (pooled RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44-0.95). There was no significant heterogeneity of effect size among trials. Subgroup analyses according to the type of SGLT2i used, baseline comorbidities, glycemic control, duration of DM, and trial follow-up showed consistent results without evidence of significant treatment-by-subgroup heterogeneity (all Pheterogeneity > .10).

CONCLUSION

Among DM patients, SGLT2is reduced the risk of pneumonia and septic shock compared with placebo. Our findings should be viewed as hypothesis generating, with concepts requiring validation in future studies.

Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes accounts for nearly 90% of the approximately 537 million cases of diabetes worldwide. The number affected is increasing rapidly with alarming trends in children and young adults (up to age 40 years). Early detection and proactive management are crucial for prevention and mitigation of microvascular and macrovascular complications and mortality burden. Access to novel therapies improves person-centred outcomes beyond glycaemic control. Precision medicine, including multiomics and pharmacogenomics, hold promise to enhance understanding of disease heterogeneity, leading to targeted therapies. Technology might improve outcomes, but its potential is yet to be realised. Despite advances, substantial barriers to changing the course of the epidemic remain. This Seminar offers a clinically focused review of the recent developments in type 2 diabetes care including controversies and future directions.

Metabolic modeling of single bronchoalveolar macrophages reveals regulators of hyperinflammation in COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2 infection induces imbalanced immune response such as hyperinflammation in patients with severe COVID-19. Here, we studied the immunometabolic regulatory mechanisms for the pathogenesis of COVID-19. We depicted the metabolic landscape of immune cells, especially macrophages, from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of patients with COVID-19 at single-cell level. We found that most metabolic processes were upregulated in macrophages from lungs of patients with mild COVID-19 compared to cells from healthy controls, whereas macrophages from severe COVID-19 showed downregulation of most of the core metabolic pathways including glutamate metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, citrate cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation, and upregulation of a few pathways such as glycolysis. Rewiring cellular metabolism by amino acid supplementation, glycolysis inhibition, or PPARγ stimulation reduces inflammation in macrophages stimulated with SARS-CoV-2. Altogether, this study demonstrates that metabolic imbalance of bronchoalveolar macrophages may contribute to hyperinflammation in patients with severe COVID-19 and provides insights into treating COVID-19 by immunometabolic modulation.