Canagliflozin and Renal Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes and Nephropathy

Cost-utility analysis of empagliflozin on chronic kidney disease progression in Thailand

OBJECTIVE

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Thailand is high and kidney disease progression remains a problem. Empagliflozin has been known to be used to slow CKD progression, but its accessibility remains limited. This study aimed to assess the cost-utility of empagliflozin for CKD progression in Thailand.

METHODS

A state-transition model was developed consisting of eight health states: five eGFR health states (G2, G3a, G3b, G4, and G5), dialysis, kidney transplantation, and death. Empagliflozin 10 mg was assessed as an add-on treatment to standard of care (SoC). The efficacy of empagliflozin was derived from the EMPA-KIDNEY trial, while other inputs were obtained from a comprehensive literature review. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) was calculated. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) was performed to explore uncertainties.

RESULTS

Empagliflozin could improve QALYs by 0.62 and 0.71 for patients with CKD without and with diabetes mellitus (DM) compared with SoC, respectively. However, it required higher total lifetime costs of 77,966 Thai baht (THB) and 59,454 THB for patients with CKD without and with DM, respectively. The ICER for CKD without DM was 126,201 THB/QALY, while the ICER for CKD with DM was 83,473 THB/QALY. The PSA indicated that empagliflozin had a 64.00% probability of being cost-effective for CKD without DM and an 89.18% probability for CKD with DM.

LIMITATIONS

An important limitation was that the treatment effects of empagliflozin were derived from the EMPA-KIDNEY, which was conducted in DM patients and assumed to be the same for non-DM patients because of the limited evidence in non-DM patients.

CONCLUSION

At the current willingness-to-pay threshold of 160,000 THB/QALY, empagliflozin was cost-effective for treating patients with CKD without or with DM.

Cardiovascular outcomes of SGLT-2 inhibitors' subtypes in type 2 diabetes; an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Introduction

The effects of Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors on cardiac outcomes, cardiovascular mortality (CVM), and all-cause mortality (ACM) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients have been reported heterogeneously in different studies.

Methods

PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scholar databases were searched with relevant MeSH terms from January 1, 2010, to November 14, 2023. The study used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary outcomes in all trials included the risk of ACM, CVM, hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), myocardial infarction (MI), and cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) in T2DM patients who were treated with one of the SGLT-2 inhibitors. Heterogeneity between studies was evaluated using Cochran's Q and I2 tests. The Egger's test was used to check for publication bias.

Results

Eighteen studies, including 70,830 participants, were included. A pooled estimate showed that SGLT-2 inhibitor treatment was significantly associated with reduced ACM (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.75-0.90, p-value: 0.001, I2: 35.1%), CVM (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.80-0.96, p-value: 0.001, I2: 0%), MI (OR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79-0.98, p-value: 0.001, I2: 0%), and HHF (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.58-0.77, p-value: 0.001). SGL-2 inhibitor treatment had no significant relationship with CVA (stroke) (OR: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.8-1.10, p-value: 0.896). Subgroup analysis showed that the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitor treatment on outcomes varied based on the type of SGLT-2 inhibitor.

Conclusion

SGLT-2 inhibitor treatment significantly reduced CVM, ACM, MI, and HHF. Empagliflozin, Canagliflozin, and Dapagliflozin significantly reduced ACM. Canagliflozin was significantly associated with a reduction in CVM. All SGLT-2 inhibitor treatments were associated with a reduction in HHF.

Racial and regional differences in efficacy of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on cardiorenal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To investigate the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors on multiple cardiorenal outcomes across different racial/ethnic groups and regions.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases in April 2024 for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Owing to inconsistencies in the reporting of the racial/ethnic and regional demographics, participants were grouped into three racial groups (Asian, Black, and White) and four regional (Asia, Central/South America, Europe, North America) groups. We compared the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors among these racial/ethnic and regional groups by calculating the ratio of hazard ratios (RHR). We evaluated the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), cardiovascular death, HHF, all-cause death, major adverse cardiac events, and cardiorenal composite outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 14 randomized placebo-controlled trials with 94,445 participants. Across the three racial/ethnic groups, SGLT2 inhibitors showed comparable efficacy. Compared with White patients, the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors on HHF was more pronounced in Black patients (RHR, 0.64; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.44-0.94), and a numerically lower risk was associated with Asian patients (RHR, 0.62; 95 % CI, 0.38-1.01). A consistent reduction in cardiovascular events with SGLT2 inhibitors was observed across all regions, while the efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors on HHF was more pronounced in Asia than in other regions (RHR, 0.52; 95 % CI, 0.33-0.81).

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 inhibitors showed generally consistent efficacy across various racial/ethnic and regional groups, with some differences noted in specific populations. Ensuring adequate representation of diverse populations in clinical trials would be key to addressing healthcare disparities.

Exploring a novel mechanism for targeting β-arrestin-2 in the management of diabetic nephropathy

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a well-known microvascular complication in patients with diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by the accumulation of extracellular matrix in the glomerular and tubulointerstitial compartments, along with the hyalinization of intrarenal vasculature. DN has recently emerged as a leading cause of chronic and end-stage renal disease. While the pathobiology of other diabetic microvascular complications, such as retinopathy, is largely understood and has reasonable therapeutic options, the mechanisms and management strategies for DN remain incompletely elucidated. In this editorial, we comment on the article by Liu et al, focusing on the mechanisms underlying the detrimental impact of β-arrestin-2 on the kidneys in the context of DN. The authors suggest that inhibiting β-arrestin-2 could alleviate renal damage through suppressing apoptosis of glomerular endothelial cells (GENCs), highlighting β-arrestin-2 as a promising therapeutic target for DN. The study proposed that β-arrestin-2 triggers endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress via the ATF6 signaling pathway, thereby promoting GENC apoptosis and exacerbating DN progression. Given the novel and crucial role of β-arrestin-2 in ER stress-related DN, it is imperative to further explore β-arrestin-2, its roles in ER stress and the potential therapeutic implications in DN.

Efficacy and Safety of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular, Renal Events, and Safety Outcomes in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Comorbid Type 2 Diabetes: A Population-Based Target Trial Emulation

OBJECTIVE

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) were excluded from sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) clinical trials. It is unknown whether the cardiorenal benefits of SGLT2i extend to patients with SLE and comorbid type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

We performed an emulated clinical trial in an insurance-based cohort in the United States, evaluating SGLT2i versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) for primary prevention of cardiovascular, renal, and other clinical outcomes among patients with both SLE and comorbid T2D. SGLT2i initiators were matched to DPP4i initiators using propensity scores (PSs) based on clinical and demographic factors. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using Cox models.

RESULTS

Outcomes among 2,165 patients starting SGLT2i and 2,165 PS-matched patients starting DPP4i were compared. Over 753.1 (±479.2) mean days, SGLT2i recipients had significantly lower risks of incident acute kidney injury (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.39-0.63), chronic kidney disease (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.50-0.76), end-stage renal disease (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20-0.80), heart failure (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56-0.92), emergency department visits (HR 0.90, 0.82-0.99), and severe sepsis (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39-0.94). Risks of all-cause mortality (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.65-1.21), lupus nephritis (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.38-1.15), myocardial infarction (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.54-1.23), stroke (HR 1.03, 95% CI 0.74-1.44), and hospitalizations (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.51-1.12) did not differ. Genital infection risk (HR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07-1.61) was increased, but urinary tract infection risk (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.79-1.03) did not differ. No significant difference was observed for diabetic ketoacidosis risk (HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.53-2.14) and fractures (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.66-1.36).

CONCLUSION

In this emulated clinical trial, treatment with SGLT2i, compared to DPP4i therapy, was associated with significantly reduced risks of several cardiorenal complications among patients with both SLE and T2D.

Effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors on individual clinical endpoints and quality of life

AIMS

Sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors (SGLTis) have cardiovascular protective effects. We aimed to assess the effects of SGLTis on individual hard clinical endpoints and quality of life (QoL) in patients with cardiovascular risk factors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data was searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrials.gov databases up to February 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SGLTis with placebo were included. The primary outcomes were individual hard clinical endpoints (Subset A) and QoL (Subset B). For Subset A, 13 RCTs including 90 413 patients were enrolled (age 66 ± 10.1 years, 35.7% female, follow-up 2.4 ± 0.3 years); as compared with placebo, SGLTis were associated with significantly lower risk of all-cause mortality [risk ratio (RR): 0.90, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86-0.94, P < 0.01], cardiovascular mortality (RR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.82-0.92, P < 0.01), hospitalization for heart failure (HF) (RR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.68-0.76, P < 0.01), HF events (RR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.68-0.75, P < 0.01), hospitalization for any cause (RR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.88-0.93, P < 0.01) and myocardial infarction (MI) (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85-0.99, P = 0.03). Notably, the favourable effect of SGLTis on all-cause mortality was more pronounced in younger (<65 years) patients (RR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.81-0.92) and in studies with less female (RR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.79-0.90). The favourable effect of SGLTis on MI was only observed in patients who received sotagliflozin (RR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.31-0.73). For Subset B, nine RCTs including 2552 HF patients were enrolled (age 67.8 ± 12.4 years, 36.4% female, follow-up 3.4 ± 1.9 months); SGLTis were associated with significant improvement in QoL as compared with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with a broad spectrum of cardiovascular risk factors, SGLTis substantially improve individual hard clinical outcomes and QoL.

Evaluating the appropriateness and the factors associated with sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors prescribing in a Middle Eastern country: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are a novel class of oral antidiabetic drugs (ADDs). Studies evaluating the appropriateness of SGLT2is prescribing, and the factors associated with their initiation in the Middle East region are lacking.

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of prescribing SGLT2is based on indication, dosing, and contraindication and determine the factors associated with their initial prescribing.

METHOD

In this cross-sectional study, a cohort of 650 patients newly prescribed SGLT2is (n = 400) and/or any other oral ADDs (n = 250) during 2020 were included. Data were extracted from an electronic medical record system. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to investigate factors associated with prescribing SGLT2is.

RESULTS

SGLT2is were prescribed for appropriate indication in 400 patients (100%), while inappropriately prescribed in relation to contraindication and dosing in 14 patients (3.5%). Male patients were more likely to be prescribed SGLT2is (odds ratio [OR], 1.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-2.82). Patients with a baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) above 7% and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) were more likely to be prescribed SGLT2is (OR, 3.22; 95% CI, 1.84-5.64) and (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.05-4.52), respectively. Patients receiving metformin (OR, 7.56; 95% CI, 4.46-12.80), sulfonylureas (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.16-4.56), and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (OR, 3.43; 95% CI, 2.00-5.87) were more likely to be prescribed SGLT2is.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2is were found to be typically prescribed for the appropriate indication. Among the most important factors associated with prescribing SGLT2is are having uncontrolled HbA1c, history of ASCVD, and using other ADDs.

Protocol and rationale for a randomized controlled SGLT2 inhibitor trial in paediatric and young adult populations with chronic kidney disease: DOUBLE PRO-TECT Alport

BACKGROUND

Clinical trials have demonstrated positive cardiovascular and kidney outcomes of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in adult patients with diabetic and other chronic kidney diseases (CKDs). Whether benefits extend to children, teenagers and young adults with early-stage CKD is unknown. For this reason, the DOUBLE PRO-TECT Alport trial (NCT05944016) will study the progression of albuminuria in young patients with Alport syndrome (AS), the most common hereditary CKD, to assess the safety and efficacy of the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin. Patients living with AS and chronically elevated albuminuria have a high risk of kidney failure before the age of 50 years.

METHODS

DOUBLE PRO-TECT Alport is a multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Participants (ages 10-39 years) must have a diagnosis of AS by genetic testing or kidney biopsy, be on a stable (>3 months) maximum tolerated dose of a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor and have a urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) of >300 mg/g (paediatric) or >500 mg/g (adult).Eligible participants will be randomly assigned at a 2:1 ratio to 48 weeks of treatment with dapaglifozin 10 mg/day or matched placebo. Most participants are expected to be children with a normal estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). In addition to safety, the primary (change in UACR from baseline to week 48) and key secondary (eGFR change from baseline to week 52) efficacy outcomes will be analysed with a mixed model repeated measures approach. Efficacy analyses will be performed primarily in the full analysis set according to the intention-to-treat principle. A sensitivity analysis will be performed using reference-based multiple imputation.

CONCLUSION

DOUBLE PRO-TECT Alport will assess whether SGLT2 inhibitors can safely reduce the UACR change from baseline as a marker for progression of CKD in young patients living with AS.

Effects of sotagliflozin on kidney and cardiac outcome in a hypertensive model of subtotal nephrectomy in male mice

Dual inhibition of sodium glucose cotransporters 1 and 2 (SGLT1/SGLT2) by sotagliflozin protects the kidney and heart in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). To gain mechanistic insights, the current study aimed to establish a murine model of hypertensive CKD that shows cardio-renal protection by sotagliflozin. Since protection by SGLT2 inhibitors can be diabetes-independent, a nondiabetic murine model of subtotal nephrectomy with angiotensin II infusion-facilitated hypertension was followed for 7 weeks. The model showed 40% lower GFR, doubling in plasma FGF23, 50 mmHg higher systolic blood pressure (SBP), 100-fold increased albuminuria, and robust signs of kidney injury, inflammation, and fibrosis versus sham controls, associated with a 30% larger left cardiac ventricle and wall thickness and upregulation of markers of cardiac overload and fibrosis. Sotagliflozin, initiated 1 week after the last surgery, showed target-engagement evidenced by glucosuria, 9 mmHg lower SBP, temporal reduction in body weight and GFR, and 30% higher plasma GLP1. Sotagliflozin, however, did not improve markers of kidney injury, inflammation, fibrosis, albuminuria, and plasma FGF23, or signs of cardiac overload, fibrosis, or impaired function. Limited sotagliflozin responsiveness may relate to short treatment time, limited metabolic benefits in nondiabetic setting and/or the model's dominant angiotensin II-driven effects/hypertension.

Dapagliflozin in diabetic kidney disease patients with different filtration status

BACKGROUND

Few studies have discussed the effects and mechanism of dapagliflozin on diabetic kidney disease (DKD) with different glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). This study aimed to investigate the variation in the eGFR and proteinuria after dapagliflozin treatment in DKD patients with different filtration status and SBP levels.

METHODS

First, we conducted a cross-sectional study to determined hyperfiltration threshold for the DKD trial. Then, we enrolled 259 DKD patients with an eGFR greater than 70 mL/min/1.73m2 and an albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) between 30 and 200 mg/g to receive treatment with dapagliflozin. Hyperfiltration was defined as the 95th percentile of eGFR above the age- and gender- specific in healthy subjects, DKD patients were divided into hyperfiltration and non-hyperfiltration groups, and SBP > 120 mmHg and ≤ 120 mmHg groups. The eGFR, ACR, and blood and urine electrolytes were measured before and after treatment.

RESULTS

The mean eGFR change at 2 weeks in the hyperfiltration with SBP > 120 mmHg group was greater than in the non-hyperfiltration with SBP ≤ 120 mmHg group (P = 0.048). The mean ACR reduction values were greater in the non-hyperfiltration with SBP ≤ 120 mmHg group than in the hyperfiltration with SBP > 120 mmHg group at 12 weeks (P = 0.042). There was no difference in other blood or urine electrolytes before and after treatment, except for the fractional excretion of sodium (FENa), which significantly increased after 2 weeks (P < 0.001) and recovered after 8 weeks (P = 0.305).

CONCLUSION

DKD with non-hyperfiltration with SBP ≤ 120 mmHg had a lower mean eGFR decline and greater decrease in the ACR after treatment. The initial increase in FENa and subsequent decrease after dapagliflozin treatment may be the main mechanism behind the eGFR variation.

Cardiovascular, kidney and safety outcomes with canagliflozin in older adults: A combined analysis from the CANVAS Program and CREDENCE trial

AIM

SGLT2 inhibitors may be underused in older adults with type 2 diabetes due to concerns about safety and tolerability. This pooled analysis of the CANVAS Program and CREDENCE trial examined the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin according to age.

METHODS

Pooled individual participant data from the CANVAS Program (n = 10 142) and CREDENCE trial (n = 4401) were analysed by baseline age (<65 years, 65 to <75 years, and ≥75 years). A range of adjudicated clinical outcomes were assessed, including major adverse cardiovascular events and CKD progression, as well as safety outcomes. Cox proportional hazards models and Fine and Gray competing risk analysis were used.

RESULTS

Among the 14 543 participants, 7927 (54.5%) were <65 years, 5281 (36.3%) were 65 to <75 years and 1335 (9.2%) were ≥75 years. Older participants had higher rates of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and heart failure, longer diabetes duration and lower mean eGFR. Reductions in cardiovascular and kidney outcomes with canagliflozin were consistent across age categories (all p trend >0.10), although there was some evidence that effects on cardiovascular death and all-cause death were attenuated with older age (p trend = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively). Although the incidence of adverse events increased with age, effects of canagliflozin on safety outcomes including acute kidney injury, volume depletion, urinary tract infections and hypoglycaemia, were not modified by age (all p trend >0.10).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with varying degrees of kidney function, canagliflozin reduced cardiovascular and kidney outcomes, regardless of age, with no additional safety concerns identified in older patients.

Canagliflozin and iron metabolism in the CREDENCE trial

BACKGROUND

Studies in patients with heart failure have indicated that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors increase iron use and enhance erythropoiesis. In this post hoc analysis of the Canagliflozin and Renal Endpoints in Diabetes with Established Nephropathy Clinical Evaluation (CREDENCE) trial, we evaluated the effects of canagliflozin on iron metabolism in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and whether the effects of canagliflozin on hemoglobin and cardiorenal outcomes were modified by iron deficiency.

METHODS

We measured serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation (TSAT) and ferritin at baseline and 12 months. The effects of canagliflozin, relative to placebo, on iron markers were assessed with analysis of covariance. Interactions between baseline iron deficiency, defined as TSAT <20%, and the effects of canagliflozin on hemoglobin and cardiorenal outcomes were evaluated with mixed effect models and Cox regression models, respectively.

RESULTS

Of 4401 participants randomized in CREDENCE, 2416 (54.9%) had iron markers measured at baseline, of whom 924 (38.2%) were iron deficient. Canagliflozin, compared with placebo, increased TIBC by 2.1% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.4, 3.8; P = .014] and decreased ferritin by 11.5% (95% CI 7.1, 15.7; P < .001) with no clear effect on serum iron or TSAT. Canagliflozin increased hemoglobin over the trial duration by 7.3 g/L (95% CI 6.2, 8.5; P < .001) and 6.7 g/L (95% CI 5.2, 8.2; P < .001) in patients with and without iron deficiency, respectively (P for interaction = .38). The relative effect of canagliflozin on the primary outcome of doubling of serum creatinine, kidney failure or death due to cardiovascular disease or kidney failure (hazard ratio 0.70, 95% CI 0.56, 0.87) was consistent regardless of iron deficiency (P for interaction = .83), as were effects on other cardiovascular and mortality outcomes (all P for interactions ≥0.10).

CONCLUSION

Iron deficiency is highly prevalent in patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD. Canagliflozin increased TIBC and decreased ferritin in patients with type 2 diabetes and CKD, suggesting increased iron utilization, and improved hemoglobin levels and clinical outcomes regardless of iron deficiency.

Effects of Novel Antidiabetic Agents on Contrast-Associated Acute Kidney Injury in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) remains a serious complication after percutaneous coronary revascularization (PCI), with limited effective preventive strategies especially for diabetic patients. This study aimed to assess the effects of novel antidiabetic agents (NAD), i.e., glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), sodium-glucose transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i), on the occurrence of this outcome in diabetic patients undergoing PCI. We enrolled 293 consecutive diabetic patients receiving NAD at the time of PCI (NAD group) and paired them with 293 diabetic individuals undergoing revascularization who were not on NAD (no-NAD group), matched according to age and sex. CA-AKI was defined as an increase in serum creatinine (SCr) ≥0.3 mg/dl or >50% from baseline within 48 to 72 hours after contrast exposure. A propensity score-adjusted logistic regression analysis was performed to account for potential selection bias. NAD treatment was associated with a significantly reduced incidence of CA-AKI than standard glucose-lowering therapies (4.1 vs. 8.5%, p = 0.023). Furthermore, patients using SGLT2i and GLP-1RAs exhibited a lower incidence of CA-AKI compared to those taking DPP4i. Both multivariate and propensity-score-adjusted regression analyses identified NAD therapy as an independent predictor of CA-AKI (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.22-0.98, p = 0.040 and OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.23-0.98, p = 0.045). In conclusion, this study is the first to explore the potential benefit of all three NAD classes on CA-AKI incidence. The use of these agents is associated with a lower incidence of renal damage in diabetic patients undergoing PCI, with the greatest benefit observed with SGLT2i and GLP-1RAs use.

Treatment of Autosomal-Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease

Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a chronic systemic disease that affects all races and ethnicities. It is the fourth leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, and it has a heterogenous phenotype ranging from mild to severe disease. Identifying patients with ADPKD who are at risk of rapid progression can guide therapeutic decisions. Several tools to predict disease severity are available, based on features such as total kidney volume assessed with magnetic resonance imaging, PKD genotype, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) trajectory, and the occurrence of hypertension and urologic complications early in life. During the past decade, more evidence has emerged regarding optimal ADPKD management. The HALT PKD (Halt Progression of Polycystic Kidney Disease) trial supported intensive blood pressure control in patients younger than 50 years of age with preserved kidney function. A healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight, salt restriction, and smoking cessation, is likely to be beneficial. Tolvaptan, the only disease-modifying agent for patients with ADPKD at risk of rapid progression, is gaining wider use, but is still limited by its side effects. This is an exciting time for the ADPKD community because multiple promising interventions are in the pipeline and being investigated.

The effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on the 'forgotten' right ventricle

With the progress in diagnosis, treatment and imaging techniques, there is a growing recognition that impaired right ventricular (RV) function profoundly affects the prognosis of patients with heart failure (HF), irrespective of their left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In addition, right HF (RHF) is a common complication associated with various diseases, including congenital heart disease, myocardial infarction (MI), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and it can manifest at any time after left ventricular assist devices (LVADs). The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition by gliflozins has emerged as a cornerstone medicine for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and HF, with an increasing focus on its potential to enhance RV function. In this review, we aim to present an updated perspective on the pleiotropic effects of gliflozins on the right ventricle and offer insights into the underlying mechanisms. We can ascertain their advantageous impact on the right ventricle by discussing the evidence obtained in animal models and monumental clinical trials. In light of the pathophysiological changes in RHF, we attempt to elucidate crucial mechanisms regarding their beneficial effects, including alleviation of RV overload, reduction of hyperinsulinaemia and inflammatory responses, regulation of nutrient signalling pathways and cellular energy metabolism, inhibition of oxidative stress and myocardial fibrosis, and maintenance of ion balance. Finally, this drug class's potential application and benefits in various clinical settings are described, along with a prospective outlook on future clinical practice and research directions.

Impact of Metabolic Syndrome Traits on Kidney Disease Risk in Individuals with MASLD: A UK Biobank Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) traits on chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is unknown. We investigated the impact of type and number of MetS traits and liver fibrosis on prevalent CKD and incident end-stage renal disease (ESRD) risk in SLD.

METHODS

234 488 UK Biobank participants' were analysed. Hepatic steatosis index (> 36 for SLD, < 30 for no SLD) and MRI-proton density fat fraction (≥ 5.56%) were used to identify SLD. MetS traits were identified using MASLD criteria. Advanced fibrosis (FIB-4 score > 2.67) was determined using FIB-4 scores. eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or albuminuria > 3 mg/mmol identified prevalent CKD. A validated algorithm identified incident ESRD. Binary logistic and Cox regressions were used to test associations with prevalent CKD ([adjusted odds ratios (ORs)]) and incident ESRD (adjusted hazard ratios [HRs]) respectively.

RESULTS

102 410 participants (41.2%) had SLD. 64.4% had MetS. 1.3% had FIB-4 score > 2.67. With SLD and only one MetS trait, hypertension (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.35-1.72) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.06-3.38) increased risk of prevalent CKD. MetS (≥ 3 traits) increased prevalent CKD risk (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.75-2.15), which was further increased by advanced liver fibrosis (OR 4.29, 95% CI 3.36-5.47). CKD prevalence increased with increasing MetS traits. Over 13.6 years (median follow-up), MetS was associated with increased risk of developing ESRD (HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.19-2.43).

CONCLUSIONS

In MASLD, hypertension, and T2D, number of MetS traits and liver fibrosis increased risk of prevalent CKD and presence of MetS increased the risk of incident ESRD.

Effect of sotagliflozin on major adverse cardiovascular events: a prespecified secondary analysis of the SCORED randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT)-2 inhibitors have shown consistent benefit in improving heart failure-related outcomes but not ischaemic cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke. We assessed if the dual SGLT1/2 inhibitor sotagliflozin improves ischaemic outcomes.

METHODS

We did a prespecified secondary analysis of the SCORED trial, which was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial enrolling patients (aged ≥18 years) with type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] 25-60 mL/min per 1·73 m2), and additional cardiovascular risk factors. Patients at 750 sites in 44 countries were randomly assigned (1:1) to oral sotagliflozin or placebo via an interactive response technology system (block size of four; stratified by heart failure-related criteria and geographical region), with participants, investigators, and study staff, including those who assessed outcomes, masked to group assignment. Sotagliflozin treatment was prescribed at 200 mg once a day, with the dose increased to 400 mg once a day within the first 6 months if tolerated. Matching placebo was prescribed at the same treatment frequency as the intervention regimen. A prespecified secondary outcome was total major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), which was defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke, assessed as first and subsequent events. Other outcomes included total myocardial infarction and total stroke (fatal and non-fatal events) as individual post-hoc endpoints. Outcomes were assessed by intention to treat with competing-risk proportional hazard models in the overall population, and, for total MACE, in prespecified subgroups stratified by baseline demographic and clinical features (sex, age, geographical region, heart failure-related criteria, eGFR, urine albumin-creatinine ratio, and cardiovascular disease history). The SCORED trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03315143, and was ended early due to loss of funding.

FINDINGS

10 584 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to sotagliflozin (n=5292 [50·0%]) or placebo (n=5292 [50·0%]) between Dec 8, 2017 and Jan 20, 2020 (median age 69 years [IQR 63-74]; 4754 [44·9%] female patients and 5830 [55·1%] male patients). 5144 (48·6%) patients had a history of cardiovascular disease, of whom 2108 (19·9% of the total population) had a history of myocardial infarction, 946 (8·9%) had a history of stroke, and 2375 (22·4%) had a history of coronary revascularisation. Patients in the sotagliflozin group had a significantly lower rate of total MACE than those in the placebo group (4·8 events per 100 person-years vs 6·3 events per 100 person-years; hazard ratio [HR] 0·77 [95% CI 0·65-0·91]; p=0·0020). Interaction analyses suggested a consistent effect of sotagliflozin on total MACE among stratified subgroups without evidence of heterogeneity. Additionally, sotagliflozin significantly reduced the rate of myocardial infarction (1·8 events per 100 person-years vs 2·7 events per 100 person-years; HR 0·68 [0·52-0·89]; p=0·0041) and stroke (1·2 events per 100 person-years vs 1·8 events per 100 person-years; HR 0·66 [0·48-0·91]; p=0·012) compared with placebo.

INTERPRETATION

Sotagliflozin reduced MACE, with independent reductions in myocardial infarction and stroke, among patients with type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and additional cardiovascular risk. The ischaemic benefit on both myocardial infarction and stroke has not been previously observed with other SGLT inhibitors and warrants investigation of combined SGLT1 and SGLT2 inhibition as a possible underlying mechanism.

FUNDING

Lexicon Pharmaceuticals.

Novel therapeutic agents for cardiometabolic risk mitigation in heart transplant recipients

Heart transplant (HT) recipients experience high rates of cardiometabolic disease. Novel therapies targeting hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and obesity, including proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, are increasingly used for cardiometabolic risk mitigation in the general population. However, limited data exist to support the use of these agents in patients who have undergone heart transplantation. Herein, we describe the mechanisms of action and emerging evidence supporting the use of novel pharmacologic agents in the post-HT setting for cardiometabolic risk mitigation and review evidence supporting their ability to modulate immune pathways associated with atherogenesis, epicardial adipose tissue, and coronary allograft vasculopathy.

Bridging the Gap Between CKD Management Paradigms in Transplant and Nontransplant Settings: Published Evidence, Challenges, and Perspectives

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best treatment for patients with kidney failure, associated with improved survival and quality of life compared with maintenance dialysis. However, despite constant improvements in the assessment and management of the alloimmune response, KT patients frequently demonstrate a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate. Therefore, the usual complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as anemia, hypertension, metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, or persistent secondary hyperparathyroidism, are highly prevalent after KT. However, their underlying mechanisms are different in the transplant setting (compared with the nontransplanted CKD population), and management recommendations are based on relatively poor-quality data. In recent years, new therapies have emerged, significantly improving kidney and cardiovascular outcomes of non-KT patients with CKD. Whether those new drugs could improve the outcomes of KT patients has largely been under investigated so far. In this review, we will address the challenges of the management of a KT patient with a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate, cover the published evidence, and highlight the critical knowledge gaps.

Renal Tubule-Specific Angiotensinogen Deletion Attenuates SGLT2 Expression and Ameliorates Diabetic Kidney Disease in Murine Models of Type 1 Diabetes

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS

Renin-angiotensin system (RAS) activation plays an important role in the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, systemic RAS blockade alone is insufficient to reverse DKD progression. We hypothesized that intrarenal renin-angiotensin system (iRAS) activation plays a crucial role in the progression of DKD. We sought to elucidate the role of the iRAS in DKD progression. Selective deletion of angiotensinogen in renal tubules ameliorated the pathological features of DKD. Our study indicates that iRAS inactivation may be a potential approach for preventing DKD disease severity and its progression.

National trends in per-capita medical expenditures among U.S. adults with diabetes, 2000-2022

AIMS

To examine the national trend in per-capita medical expenditures among U.S. adults with diabetes from 2000 to 2022.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey in U.S. adults aged ≥18 years with self-reported diabetes. We calculated the expenditure in total and by component, including outpatient services, inpatient services, emergency room (ER) visits, prescription drugs, and other medical services. We used joinpoint regression to identify changes in trends.

RESULTS

Estimated total per-capita expenditure increased 66 %, from $9,700 (95 % CI $8,736-$10,663) in 2000 to $16,067 (95 % CI $15,049-$17,086) in 2022. Specifically, spending on prescription drugs, outpatient, ER, and other medical services increased by 144 %, 96 %, 122 %, and 135 %, respectively, while inpatient spending decreased by 28 %. Two significant upward trend periods (2000-2004 and 2011-2018) were identified for total expenditure. Spending trends by component varied, with an accelerated increase in prescription drug spending after 2012; by 2022, prescription drugs accounted for the largest share (39 %) of total expenditures.

CONCLUSIONS

The economic burden of diabetes on the national health care system has been increasing, with spending changes varying by medical service category. Interventions to prevent diabetes and its complications may help mitigate this growing economic burden.

Perspectives of medication-related experiences in Black persons with kidney diseases: The patient voice

PURPOSE

Black persons comprise 13.4% of the US population but represent 36% of those with kidney failure. Medication-related disparities likely contribute to these outcomes. Patient perspective provides valuable insight into what they need and want from their medications and their care.

METHODS

We conducted five 1.25-hour online focus group sessions via a videoconferencing app between March 30 and June 27, 2022. Our nationally recruited sample consisted of 19 adults 37 to 72 years of age who represented a broad range of educational backgrounds, all with CKD (non-dialysis-dependent, dialysis-dependent, or post kidney transplant). Semistructured guides were constructed by our team and used by moderators. Inductive thematic analysis procedures were followed. Patients representative of our study population were integral members of our research team.

RESULTS

Our analysis includes 3 major themes and associated subthemes: (1) meet patients where they are (subthemes: patient autonomy and empowerment, experience with illness, home and community support, barriers to understanding, and barriers to access; (2) the patient journey with medications (subthemes: fears with medications, frustrations and burdens with medication use, adjusting to medications, desire for awareness and explanation, preferences with medications, and helpful tools and supports; and (3) significant interactions with healthcare professionals (subthemes: barriers to building trust, type of care and interactions desired, and care team communication).

CONCLUSION

Recognizing the patient as an individual, addressing their frustrations and needs with medications, and attending to implicit biases and strategies to overcome barriers and empower Black persons with CKD are anticipated to reduce medication- related disparities and improve health outcomes experienced by this population.

Novel Antidiabetic Drugs and Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: A Literature Review

Novel antidiabetic drugs, particularly sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, have significantly transformed the management landscape for type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic kidney diseases, owing to their well-established cardiorenal protective effects. Given the shared risk factors and comorbidities, it is relevant to consider the potential risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in individuals prescribed these novel antidiabetic medications. This literature review aims to summarize currently available evidence on VTE risk associated with novel antidiabetic drugs, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl-peptidase IV (DPP-4) inhibitors, and SGLT2 inhibitors. Following a comprehensive search on PubMed using relevant keywords and backward reference searching, we identified 25 publications that directly reported on associations between these medications and VTE risk. Findings from these studies, including seven meta-analyses, reveal inconsistent results: some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists or DPP-4 inhibitors may be associated with increased risk of VTE, whereas SGLT2 inhibitors do not appear to be associated with VTE and may even be a protective factor. A notable limitation of the existing studies is the significant challenge posed by confounding in observational studies, while the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) often concluded with a limited number of VTE events, if it was studied. Furthermore, all identified studies focused on the risk of primary VTE, leaving an important knowledge gap regarding whether these novel antidiabetic drugs may influence the efficacy or safety of anticoagulants used for preventing VTE recurrence. Addressing these gaps presents an important avenue for future research.

Real-world use of finerenone in patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes based on large-scale clinical studies: FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD

Finerenone is a new mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist that does not have a steroid skeleton, and in two large-scale clinical studies targeting patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) complicated with type 2 diabetes (FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD), it significantly reduced the composite endpoints due to the progression of renal disease, and the composite endpoints of cardiovascular disease. Recently, we published two databases summarizing how finerenone is used in clinical practice in Japan (FINEROD). In this paper, we examines how best to use finerenone to get the most out of its effects. The most important side effect of finerenone is hyperkalemia, and the risk of hyperkalemia increases as renal function declines. By starting treatment early when eGFR is maintained, it is expected that side effects will be reduced. Furthermore, the FIDELITY analysis (a pooled analysis of FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD) has shown that the clinical effect is stronger when finerenone treatment is started at an early stage of CKD. The simultaneous use of RAS inhibitors (ACE inhibitor or ARB), finerenone, and SGLT2 inhibitors appears to be a promising treatment. Further, it is important to continue the medications of RAS inhibitors and MR antagonists as long as possible. To prevent hyperkalemia, the most reliable and safest method is to use a new oral potassium adsorbent. It is important to think of a new oral potassium adsorbent not as something that will lower serum potassium levels, but as something that will allow you to avoid discontinuing or increase the dose of RAS inhibitors or MR antagonists. Differences between steroidal and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists. Mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) are present in epithelial tissues such as renal tubules and intestinal epithelium, as well as in non-epithelial tissues such as the brain, heart, and blood vessel walls. Although the MR itself is exactly the same in both tissues, its physiological actions are completely different. In epithelial tissues, cortisol is inactivated by the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11 β-HSD2), and aldosterone selectively binds to the MR. On the other hand, in non-epithelial tissues, 11 β-HSD2 is almost nonexistent or is only weakly active, so that cortisol, which outnumbers it, binds to almost all the MR, and aldosterone binds to the very few remaining MR. Spironolactone, a representative MR antagonist with a steroid skeleton, has a high affinity for renal tubules, and concentrates there, where it is highly effective. Therefore, it is classified as a potassium-sparing diuretic. However, if it does not have a steroid skeleton, its affinity for epithelial and non-epithelial tissues is equal. In other words, its effect on epithelial tissues is relatively weak, and its effect on non-epithelial tissues is relatively strong. Finerenone does not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and does not reach the central nervous system. The central MR, especially the periventricular MR, is strongly involved in hypertension, and esaxerenone, another nonsteroidal MR antagonist, which can cross the BBB although only to a small extent and reach the central nervous system, has a strong antihypertensive effect.

Contribution of the glomerular filtration rate slope to the kidney hierarchical composite endpoint

INTRODUCTION

A recent chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression hierarchical composite endpoint (HCE) utilizes the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) slope for participants without a dichotomous event. Here, we evaluated clinical interpretations when HCE analyses are driven by GFR slope comparisons.

METHODS

Using CKD trial data, we calculated win odds using only GFR slope; dichotomous kidney events and GFR slope; all-cause mortality, dichotomous kidney events and GFR slope; and all-cause mortality with dichotomous kidney events.

RESULTS

Win odds (95% confidence interval) calculated from pairwise GFR slope only comparisons were 1.44 (1.34-1.55), 1.60 (1.49-1.72), 1.19 (1.10-1.28), and 0.82 (0.78-0.86) in the DAPA-CKD, CREDENCE, SONAR, and ALTITUDE trials, respectively. Win odds were similar for the GFR slope only and full kidney HCE with and without mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support incorporation of GFR slope into the CKD progression HCE and help to interpret the magnitude of treatment effect on kidney HCE estimated with win odds.

Cardiovascular outcomes with semaglutide by severity of chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes: the FLOW trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In the FLOW trial, semaglutide reduced the risks of kidney and cardiovascular (CV) outcomes and death in participants with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). These prespecified analyses assessed the effects of semaglutide on CV outcomes and death by CKD severity.

METHODS

Participants were randomized to subcutaneous semaglutide 1 mg or placebo weekly. The main outcome was a composite of CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), or non-fatal stroke (CV death/MI/stroke) as well as death due to any cause by baseline CKD severity. CKD was categorized by estimated glomerular filtration rate < or ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio < or ≥300 mg/g, or Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) risk classification.

RESULTS

Three thousand, five hundred and thirty-three participants were randomized with a median follow-up of 3.4 years. Low/moderate KDIGO risk was present in 242 (6.8%), while 878 (24.9%) had high and 2412 (68.3%) had very high KDIGO risk. Semaglutide reduced CV death/MI/stroke by 18% [hazard ratio (HR) 0.82 (95% confidence interval 0.68-0.98); P = .03], with consistency across estimated glomerular filtration rate categories, urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio levels, and KDIGO risk classification (all P-interaction > .13). Death due to any cause was reduced by 20% [HR 0.80 (0.67-0.95); P = .01], with consistency across estimated glomerular filtration rate categories and KDIGO risk class (P-interaction .21 and .23, respectively). The P-interaction treatment effect for death due to any cause by urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio was .01 [<300 mg/g HR 1.17 (0.83-1.65); ≥300 mg/g HR 0.70 (0.57-0.85)].

CONCLUSIONS

Semaglutide significantly reduced the risk of CV death/MI/stroke regardless of baseline CKD severity in participants with type 2 diabetes.

Management of Diabetes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at increased risk of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular events.

METHODS

In this article, we will summarize the 2022 consensus report by the ADA and KDIGO on diabetes management in CKD and include newly available evidence to assist health care professionals in providing optimal care to patients living with diabetes and CKD.

RESULTS

Comprehensive care strategies include lifestyle interventions, optimal glycemic, blood pressure, weight, and lipid management, and preferential use of therapies with proven heart and kidney beneficial effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This article offers a concise overview of the multiple strategies aimed at reducing cardiovascular and kidney risk among people with diabetes and CKD, as recommended by multiple societies.

The Impact of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors on Dialysis Risk and Mortality in Kidney Transplant Patients with Diabetes

Kidney transplantation is the optimal treatment for end-stage kidney disease, but many patients also have diabetes mellitus. This study compares long-term outcomes between new users of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) in kidney transplant recipients with diabetes mellitus. Data from the TriNetX Collaborative Network, including 89,710 patients with diabetes mellitus who underwent kidney transplantation between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2023, were analyzed. From this cohort, 1,410 matched pairs of SGLT2i and DPP-4i users were selected based on propensity scores. The results showed that SGLT2i users had a lower risk of dialysis (HR: 0.694) and all-cause mortality (HR: 0.687) compared to DPP-4i users. There were no significant differences in the risk of post-transplant infections, transplant rejection, or hospitalization between the two groups. Additionally, SGLT2i users had significantly lower cumulative incidences of dialysis and mortality. In conclusion, this study, utilizing data from TriNetX, demonstrates that SGLT2i treatment in kidney transplant recipients with diabetes mellitus is associated with lower risks of dialysis and mortality, suggesting it may help preserve kidney function and improve survival in this population.

Impact of Selective Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPAR)-α Modulators and Fibrates on Microvascular Disease: Is There Still Room?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review examines the role of fibrates and the selective PPAR-alpha modulators (SPPARM-α), pemafibrate, in diabetic microvascular disease. It reviews their potential to mitigate residual risk in retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

These pharmacotherapies, beyond their lipid-lowering effects, may exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and endothelial-protective actions. Secondary analyses of large clinical trials supports their efficacy in slowing retinopathy progression, reducing albuminuria, and preventing minor amputations. Recent analyses suggest that pemafibrate offers an enhanced efficacy and safety profile compared to conventional fibrate and may lower the incidence of diabetic foot ulcers and gangrene. Fibrates and SPPARM-α agonists represent promising therapies to prevent diabetic microvascular complications. Their benefits in reducing microvascular damage support their broader adoption in clinical practice. However, additional dedicated randomized trials are essential to validate the efficacy of those agents in contemporary diabetes care era and to address the growing burden of diabetes-related microvascular complications.

The Efficacy and Safety of Canagliflozin by Frailty Status in Participants of the CANVAS and CREDENCE Trials

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been shown to improve renal and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes. Limited evidence exists about the efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with frailty.

METHODS

This was a post hoc pooled, participant-level data analysis of the CANVAS Program (CANVAS and CANVAS-R) and the CREDENCE trial. We examined the effect of canagliflozin on: (1) Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), (2) Cardiovascular mortality, (3) all-cause mortality, and (4) key safety outcomes. Frailty was defined by a Frailty Index (FI) based on a deficit accumulation approach (FI > 0.25: frail). Cox proportional-hazard models were used to estimate the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin overall and according to frailty status.

RESULTS

There were 14,543 participants (10,142 from the CANVAS Program, 4401 from the CREDENCE trial). Their mean age was 63.2 years; 35.3% were female. Frailty was present in 56% of the study participants. The benefits of canagliflozin were observed in both the frail and non-frail subgroups: HRs for MACE 0.80 (95% CI 0.70-0.90) in the frail versus 0.91 (95% CI 0.75-1.09) in the non-frail (p for interaction = 0.27); HRs for cardiovascular mortality 0.79 (95% CI 0.67-0.95) in the frail versus 0.94 (95% CI 0.70-1.27) in the non-frail (p for interaction = 0.38); HRs for all-cause mortality 0.81 (95% CI 0.70-0.94) in the frail versus 0.93 (95% CI 0.74-1.16) in the non-frail (p for interaction = 0.39). Adverse events were similar among frail and non-frail participants, except for osmotic diuresis (HRs 1.67, 95% CI 1.22-2.28 in the frail vs. 3.05, 95% CI 2.13-4.35 in the non-frail, p for interaction = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Canagliflozin improved cardiovascular and mortality endpoints in participants with type 2 diabetes irrespective of frailty status, with a similar safety profile. Our findings, in addition to those from other recent studies, provide evidence to support the introduction of SGLT2 inhibitor therapy in patients perceived to be frail.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov CANVAS: NCT01032629; CANVAS-R: NCT01989754; CREDENCE: NCT02065791.

The association between anti-inflammatory therapies and renal outcomes in patients with established cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risks: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

To assess the relationship between anti-inflammatory therapy and renal events risk in participants with cardiovascular risks or diagnosed cardiovascular disease (CVD).

METHODS

Literature searches were carried out in PubMed, Embase, clinicaltrial.gov and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Randomised controlled trials that were published from January 1995 to July 2024, compared anti-inflammatory therapy and placebo in participants at cardiovascular risks or with diagnosed CVD and with reports of renal outcomes were included. The results were shown as risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

In comparison to placebo, therapies targeting inflammation did not exhibit a significant association with the risk of composite renal outcomes (worsening of renal function, death due to kidney disease and end-stage renal disease) (RR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.40 to 1.99, I2 = 0%). The risk of worsening of renal function (RR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.07, I2 = NA), end-stage renal disease (RR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.31 to 2.85, I2 = 0%), death due to kidney disease (RR = 3.00, 95% CI 0.12 to 73.56, I2 = NA), chronic kidney disease (RR = 1.77, 95% CI 0.74 to 4.23, I2 = 0%), chronic renal failure (RR = 1.70, 95% CI 0.56 to 5.15, I2 = 61%) and acute kidney injury (RR = 1.16, 95% CI 0.95 to 1.42, I2 = 0%) showed no significant difference between patients receiving anti-inflammatory therapy and placebo.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence did not indicate associations between anti-inflammatory therapies and adverse renal events risks in patients with cardiovascular risks or established CVD. Future researches are needed to explore the renal effects of anti-inflammatory therapy.

Kidney outcomes with SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with diabetes and an insulin-deficient phenotype: A real world analysis

AIM

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major complication of diabetes, including in insulin-deficient phenotypes, yet data on kidney outcomes with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in this population are limited. This study investigates the impact of SGLT2i on kidney outcomes in patients with insulin-deficient diabetes using real world data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from a large Health Maintenance Organization in Israel and included 12,530 propensity score-matched adults with insulin-deficient diabetes. Patients were categorized into SGLT2i users and non-users and followed for a median of 1657 days. The primary outcome was a composite of ≥50% decline in eGFR to <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or progression to eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73 m2. Secondary outcomes included doubling of serum creatinine and changes in albuminuria category.

RESULTS

SGLT2i use was associated with a reduced incidence of the primary outcome (6.1% vs. 7.5%; HR 0.79, p < 0.001). Secondary analyses revealed significant reductions in serum creatinine doubling (HR 0.76, p < 0.001) and improvements in albuminuria, with 51% of SGLT2i users transitioning to normoalbuminuria. Benefits were consistent across subgroups. Although diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) incidence was higher among SGLT2i users (2.81% vs. 2.19%, p = 0.03), the overall frequency was low.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i demonstrated substantial kidney protection in insulin-deficient patients, extending benefits beyond type 2 diabetes. These findings highlight SGLT2i as a potential therapeutic option for mitigating DKD in high-risk populations.

Heart Failure in Older Patients: An Update

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with high incidence and prevalence and high morbidity and death rate, even in the short term, representing a serious public health issue, mainly in older people. It is a growing cause for hospital admission in this age group, being frequently associated with several comorbidities, further aggravating the disease's course. Moreover, older HF patients are usually affected by clinical conditions, like frailty, malnutrition, and cachexia, which significantly impact the overall management of HF and need to be properly identified and treated. Diagnosing and managing HF in older patients may be very complicated and challenging. Although specific data on treatment of both acute and chronic HF in older subjects are limited and mainly extrapolated from large-scale clinical trials, the standard pharmacological management may be considered well-tolerated and generally safe. In any case, a personalized and tailored approach is mandatory and is based on severity of comorbidities, overall status, and prognosis, above all in frailer and more comorbid subjects, due to the higher rate of drug interactions, side effects, and therapy discontinuation in this population. In this scenario, palliative care has become a fundamental part of HF management in the elderly in order to improve their care and the quality of life. Moreover, an increasing number of promising pharmacological options deserve further investigation in order to support clinicians in optimizing management of comorbid and frailer patients. In this work, we provide detailed and updated insight into clinical, therapeutic, and prognostic features of both acute and chronic HF in the older population.

Effect of SGLT2i on kidney outcomes of individuals with type 2 diabetes according to body mass index: nationwide cohort study

AIMS

To investigate the clinical significance of the modification of the kidney protective effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors by baseline body mass index (BMI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We included individuals with SGLT2 inhibitors or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors newly prescribed for type 2 diabetes using a nationwide epidemiological cohort and performed propensity score matching (1:2). The primary outcome was the annual eGFR decline, assessed using a linear mixed-effects model, compared between individuals with SGLT2 inhibitors and DPP4 inhibitors. We investigated the interaction effect of BMI at the time of prescription using a three-knot restricted cubic spline model. We analysed 2165 individuals with SGLT2 inhibitor prescriptions and 4330 individuals with DPP4 inhibitor prescriptions. Overall, the annual decline in eGFR was less pronounced in the group treated with SGLT2 inhibitors than in those treated with DPP4 inhibitors (-1.34 mL/min/1.73 m2 vs. -1.49 mL/min/1.73 m2). The advantage of SGLT2 inhibitors in mitigating eGFR decline was augmented in the individuals with higher BMI (P-value for interaction 0.0017). Furthermore, even upon adjusting the definition of outcomes to encompass a 30 or 40% reduction in eGFR, the potential advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors over DPP4 inhibitors persisted, with a trend of augmented effects with higher BMI. This interaction effect was evident in the individuals with preserved kidney function.

CONCLUSION

Our nationwide epidemiological study substantiated the improved kidney outcomes in the SGLT2 inhibitor users compared with the DPP4 inhibitor users across a wide range of BMI, which was pronounced for individuals with higher BMI.

Comparative cardiovascular effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease phenotypes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) encompasses various phenotypes with elevated risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). This study aimed to assess the comparative cardiovascular effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) across diverse ASCVD phenotypes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating GLP-1 RAs or SGLT2is against placebo or standard care in ASCVD patients. Primary outcomes included MACE, defined as cardiovascular mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model.Twenty-six trials (151 789 patients) were included. Both GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is significantly reduced MACE rates in ASCVD patients (RR 0.85; 95% CI 0.80-0.91 for both). GLP-1 RAs showed significant effectiveness in peripheral artery disease (RR 0.86; 95% CI 0.76-0.98) and post-acute cardiovascular events (RR 0.90; 95% CI 0.83-0.97). In ASCVD with heart failure, both drug classes reduced MACE (GLP-1 RAs: RR 0.73; 95% CI 0.63-0.84; SGLT2is: RR 0.86; 95% CI 0.78-0.95). SGLT2is significantly reduced MACE in ASCVD with chronic kidney disease (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.72-0.99), particularly in severe albuminuria (RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.37-0.99).

CONCLUSION

GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is exhibit distinct cardiovascular effectiveness profiles across ASCVD phenotypes. GLP-1 RAs show particular benefits in peripheral artery disease and post-acute cardiovascular events, while SGLT2is demonstrate unique advantages in ASCVD with comorbid chronic kidney disease. Both are effective in heart failure. These findings support tailored treatment strategies for diverse ASCVD participants based on specific comorbidities and risk factors.

Nomenclature of renal involvement in diabetes mellitus: unify to manage diversity

Diabetes mellitus is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease leading to kidney failure and premature death. Over the years, the nomenclature of kidney involvement in diabetes mellitus has evolved, driven both by the understanding that the phenotype may be more diverse than initially thought and by pragmatism. In clinical practice, most patients with diabetes mellitus do not undergo a comprehensive work-up (including kidney biopsy and genetic testing) to exclude the presence or coexistence of additional factors or other kidney diseases. Furthermore, the inclusion criteria for successful kidney protection clinical trials that are the basis of current guidelines covered a wide range of kidney phenotypes under the label of "diabetes and kidney disease," without requiring proactive efforts to exclude other nephropathies. The aim of this review is to provide a critical review of the most common chronic kidney disease phenotypes in the context of diabetes mellitus and discuss the evolving nomenclature. Various topics are discuss diabetic kidney disease, classic diabetic nephropathy, regression of albuminuria, rapid progression, non-albuminuric and non-proteinuric kidney disease, the connections between and the impact of aging on these phenotypes and a glimpse into future phenotypes resulting from proactive prevention rather than reactive treatment of kidney disease in diabetes.

Leveraging complementary multi-omics data integration methods for mechanistic insights in kidney diseases

Chronic kidney diseases (CKDs) are a global health concern, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of their complex pathophysiology. This study explores the use of 2 complementary multidimensional -omics data integration methods to elucidate mechanisms of CKD progression as a proof of concept. Baseline biosamples from 37 participants with CKD in the Clinical Phenotyping and Resource Biobank Core (C-PROBE) cohort with prospective longitudinal outcome data ascertained over 5 years were used to generate molecular profiles. Tissue transcriptomic, urine and plasma proteomic, and targeted urine metabolomic profiling were integrated using 2 orthogonal multi-omics data integration approaches, one unsupervised and the other supervised. Both integration methods identified 8 urinary proteins significantly associated with long-term outcomes, which were replicated in an adjusted survival model using 94 samples from an independent validation group in the same cohort. The 2 methods also identified 3 shared enriched pathways: the complement and coagulation cascades, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, and the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Use of different multiscalar data integration strategies on the same data enabled identification and prioritization of disease mechanisms associated with CKD progression. Approaches like this will be invaluable with the expansion of high-dimension data in kidney diseases.

PromarkerD Versus Standard of Care Biochemical Measures for Assessing Future Renal Function Decline in Type 2 Diabetes

Background/Objectives: The current standard of care for assessing chronic kidney disease complicating diabetes (DKD) includes measurement of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (uACR) but both tests have limitations. The present study compared the biomarker-based Promarker®D test with conventional biochemical measures for predicting future kidney function decline in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: Baseline concentrations of apolipoprotein A-IV, CD5 antigen-like protein and insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 were combined with age, serum HDL cholesterol and eGFR to generate PromarkerD risk scores for incident DKD/eGFR decline ≥ 30% (the primary endpoint) in 857 adults with T2D (mean age 65.4 years, 54% males). Logistic regression modelling was used to compare the association of (i) PromarkerD, (ii) eGFR, (iii) uACR, and (iv) eGFR plus uACR with this outcome during 4 years of follow-up. Results: Study participants were classified by PromarkerD as low (63%), moderate (13%), or high risk (24%) for kidney function decline at baseline. Over a mean 4.2 years, 12.5% developed the primary endpoint. PromarkerD scores showed significantly higher predictive performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.88 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.85-0.91)) compared to conventional biochemical measures (AUC = 0.63-0.82). There was a progressive increase in risk with moderate and high risk by PromarkerD exhibiting greater odds of the primary endpoint compared to those at low risk (odds ratios (OR) (95% CI) 8.11 (3.99-16.94) and 21.34 (12.03-40.54), respectively, both p < 0.001). Conclusions: PromarkerD more accurately identifies adults with T2D at risk of kidney function decline than current usual care biochemical tests.

Impact of hospital-based early detection on management in chronic kidney disease: the CKD Stewardship study (CKD-S) - protocol for a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) causes significant morbidity and mortality. Medical therapies can reduce the progression of disease by up to 50%. CKD is undiagnosed in the majority of people who have it, resulting in undertreatment. CKD Stewardship (CKD-S) aims to identify hospital inpatients with undiagnosed mid-stage to late-stage CKD with the goal of facilitating diagnosis and initiating guideline-based therapies.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This prospective, multicentre, cohort study compares two models of care, CKD-S and standard care, for identification and management of CKD, across six public hospitals in metropolitan Sydney, Australia. CKD-S entails active case finding using the electronic medical record, with nephrologist outreach to admitting teams and kidney nurse provided patient education. Adult inpatients with an admission estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)<45 mL/min/1.73 m2 and not known to a nephrologist will be eligible, excluding those with short life expectancy or advanced age (>80 years). Participants will be enrolled between 1 March 2024 and 1 March 2025. Baseline and demographic data will be collected after discharge from the hospital. Participants will be followed up 12 months after discharge using Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule and Medical Benefits Schedule data, linked via the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Hub. We will report the proportion of all adults admitted to the hospital who are not already known to a nephrologist, in which a diagnosis of stage 3b-5 CKD is recognised by the CKD-S intervention team, compared with standard care. We will then compare the proportion in each cohort who have an eGFR or urine albumin:creatinine ratio measured, are referred to a nephrologist, and are prescribed guideline-directed therapies over the 12 months following discharge from the hospital.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has ethics approval from the Sydney Local Health District's Ethics Committee (Concord Hospital Zone). The results of the CKD-S study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at academic conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12624000452594.

Targeting senescent cells for the treatment of age-associated diseases

Cellular senescence, which entails cellular dysfunction and inflammatory factor release-the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP)-is a key contributor to multiple disorders, diseases and the geriatric syndromes. Targeting senescent cells using senolytics has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for these conditions. Among senolytics, the combination of dasatinib and quercetin (D + Q) was the earliest and one of the most successful so far. D + Q delays, prevents, alleviates or treats multiple senescence-associated diseases and disorders with improvements in healthspan across various pre-clinical models. While early senolytic therapies have demonstrated promise, ongoing research is crucial to refine them and address such challenges as off-target effects. Recent advances in senolytics include new drugs and therapies that target senescent cells more effectively. The identification of senescence-associated antigens-cell surface molecules on senescent cells-pointed to another promising means for developing novel therapies and identifying biomarkers of senescent cell abundance.

Sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors for APOL1 kidney disease: A call for studies

Renal risk variants in the apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) gene confer protection against trypanosomiasis, but these risk variants (G1 and G2 variants) also predispose to kidney disease among individuals, especially from Sub-SaharanAfrica. Currently, the mechanisms of how these renal risk variants induce kidney damage are not precisely defined, but lysosomal and mitochondrial dysfunction, altered ion channel activity, altered autophagy, and disordered immunity are suggested. Currently, there is no specific treatment for APOL1 kidney disease (APOL1-KD) although several potential disease-specific therapeutic agents are being evaluated in clinical trials. Non-specific interventions include proteinuria screening, salt restriction, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition but are not sufficient to prevent kidney disease progression in APOL1-KD. Given the lack of specific treatment options, more efforts are necessary to reduce kidney disease progression. Sodium glucose co-transport-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) are gaining attention for benefits in proteinuric kidney diseases and exert many beneficial effects which theoretically may be beneficial in the context of APOL1-KD. These beneficial effects include but are not limited to increased natriuresis, decreased proteinuria/albuminuria, and mitochondrial dysfunction. SGLT2i have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. In the current review, we highlight the potential reasons for exploring the use of SGLT2i in APOL1-KD. Future studies are warranted to explore if SGLT2i use can provide protection in APOL1-KD.

The Role of SGLT2-Inhibitors Across All Stages of Heart Failure and Mechanisms of Early Clinical Benefit: From Prevention to Advanced Heart Failure

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), initially developed as antihyperglycemic agents, have revolutionized heart failure (HF) management, offering substantial benefits across all stages and phenotypes of the disease. Regardless of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), these agents have proven efficacy in both chronic and acute HF presentations. This review explores SGLT2i applications spanning the HF continuum, from early stages (Stage A) in at-risk individuals to the mitigation of progression in advanced HF (Stage D). Evidence from numerous trials has shown that SGLT2i significantly lower rates of HF hospitalization, improve renal function, and decreases cardiovascular mortality, highlighting their multifaced mechanisms of action in HF care. This review also highlights the potential mechanisms by which SGLT2i exert their beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and renal systems, each contributing to early and sustained clinical improvements. However, the integration of SGLT2i into guideline-directed medical therapy poses practical challenges, including initiation timing, dosing, and monitoring, which are addressed to support effective treatment adaptation across patient populations. Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive assessment of SGLT2i as a foundational therapy in HF, emphasizing their role as an intervention across multiple stages aimed at improving outcomes across the entire HF spectrum.

Risk of acute renal failure associated with combined use of SGLT2 inhibitors and potentially nephrotoxic drugs: an epidemiological surveillance study based on the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS)

BACKGROUND

Limited knowledge exists regarding nephrotoxic risks associated with the combination of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and potentially nephrotoxic drugs. This study evaluates acute renal failure (ARF) events linked to such combinations using data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

METHODS

Signal mining was performed by estimating reporting odds ratios (ROR), with validation through additive, multiplicative, and proportional reporting ratio (PRR) models. Logistic regression assessed mortality risk factors.

RESULTS

Among 4,417,195 reports, 1,636 ARF cases were associated with SGLT2i combinations, primarily involving diuretics, lipid-lowering agents, and anticoagulants. The highest ARF risk was observed with dapagliflozin-cefazolin [ROR adjusted (a) 59.63, 95% CI (9.96, 356.87); ROR adjusted (b) 19.88, 95% CI (1.80, 219.21); additive model (0.53); multiplicative model (8.36); PRR (8.53)]. Consistent associations were found for empagliflozin-allopurinol and canagliflozin-vancomycin. Among single drugs, 12, including canagliflozin, met all four significance criteria for ARF signals. Logistic regression revealed male patients had higher mortality risk (OR = 0.356, p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

This study confirms prior evidence of ARF associated with the combined use of SGLT2i with diuretics or NSAIDs and identifies new risks with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antigout medications, and anticoagulants. Male gender was a significant risk factor.

Increasing SGLT-2 inhibitor prescribing through an integrated case-finding algorithm-guided interdisciplinary intervention

BACKGROUND

Use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2 inhibitors) falls short of their cardiorenal protective benefits. Patient and provider-level barriers hinder the adoption of these life-saving medications. Innovative practices to provide primary care providers (PCPs) with added clinical-decision support via a dedicated remote interdisciplinary diabetes rounds (IDRs) team could promote SGLT-2 inhibitor selection.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of the IDR's proactive provider outreach on the prescribing rate of SGLT-2 inhibitors and assess the application of an SGLT-2 inhibitor case-finding algorithm to allow targeted intervention in a population-health-based setting.

METHODS

This is a quality improvement prospective cohort observational study from October 2021 to May 2022. Patients who met the prespecified criteria for SGLT-2 eligibility were reviewed via IDR with recommendations sent to the PCP via the electronic health record. The primary analysis employed a multivariate logistic regression to assess the difference in SGLT-2 inhibitor prescription rates between reviewed and not reviewed patients, adjusting for variables affecting SGLT-2 inhibitor prescribing. The secondary analysis measured the algorithm's accuracy in identifying patients with compelling indications.

RESULTS

The IDR team reviewed a total of 206 patients (mean age, 63 years; 53.9% women; 42.7% Black; mean A1c 8.3%) with a successful PCP appointment. Patients reviewed by the IDR team had an increased prescribing rate within 90 days of the visit (adjusted odds ratio 5.1, 95% CI 3.06-8.47). The algorithm identified 1084 SGLT-2 inhibitor-eligible patients with a sensitivity of 90.4% (95% CI, 86.4%, 94.4%) and specificity of 85.1% (95% CI, 79.9%, 90.4%).

CONCLUSION

IDR team's review of eligible patients with recommendations to PCPs was associated with significantly increased SGLT-2 inhibitor prescription rates. Development of an algorithm with high sensitivity and specificity for targeted intervention may provide a pathway for channeling therapy and decreasing clinical inertia in population health management efforts.

A critical review on SGLT2 inhibitors for diabetes mellitus, renal health, and cardiovascular conditions

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) were originally formulated to reduce blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. Recent clinical trials indicate that this compound can be repurposed for other critical conditions. A literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest, and Google Scholar, utilizing key terms such as SGLT2i, diabetes, and oxidative stress. SGLT2i has significant beneficial effects not only in cardiovascular disease but also in renal dysfunction. SGLT2i therapy can mitigate critical cardiovascular complications like heart attacks, strokes, mortality rates, and hospitalization duration, as well as delay the necessity for dialysis irrespective of diabetic condition. Evidence supports potential advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors for individuals with renal problems and heart failure, regardless of diabetes status. In addition to diabetic mellitus, this analysis explores the latest updates on SGLT2i and the therapeutic advantages it offers in many renal and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Benefits of aldosterone receptor antagonism in chronic kidney disease: the BARACK-D RCT

Background

Chronic kidney disease affects around 10% of the global population and is associated with significant risk of progression to end-stage renal disease and vascular events. Aldosterone receptor antagonists such as spironolactone have shown prognostic benefits in patients with heart failure, but effects on patients with chronic kidney disease are uncertain.

Objectives

To determine the effect of low-dose spironolactone on mortality and cardiovascular outcomes in people with chronic kidney disease stage 3b.

Design

Prospective randomised open blinded end-point trial.

Settings

Three hundred and twenty-nine general practitioner practices throughout the United Kingdom.

Participants

Patients meeting the criteria for chronic kidney disease stage 3b (estimated glomerular filtration rate 30-44 ml/minute/1.73 m2) according to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines were recruited. Due to the higher than anticipated measurement error/fluctuations, the eligible range was extended to 30-50 ml/minute/1.73 m2 following the initial recruitment period.

Intervention

Participants were randomised 1 : 1 to receive either spironolactone 25 mg once daily in addition to standard care, or standard care only.

Outcome measures

Primary outcome was the first occurring of all-cause mortality, first hospitalisation for heart disease (coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, sudden death, failed sudden death), stroke, heart failure, transient ischaemic attack or peripheral arterial disease, or first occurrence of any condition not listed at baseline. Secondary outcome measures included changes in blood pressure, renal function, B-type natriuretic peptide, incidence of hyperkalaemia and treatment costs and benefits.

Results

One thousand four hundred and thirty-four participants were randomised of the 3022 planned. We found no evidence of differences between the intervention and control groups in terms of effectiveness with the primary combined vascular end points, nor with the secondary clinical outcomes, including progression in renal decline. These results were similar for the total treatment periods or a 3-year follow-up period as originally planned. More adverse events were experienced and more participants discontinued treatment in the intervention group. Two-thirds of participants randomised to spironolactone stopped treatment within six months because they met pre-specified safety stop criteria. The addition of low-dose spironolactone was estimated to have a cost per quality-adjusted life-year gained value above the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence's threshold of £30,000.

Limitations

Main limitations were difficulties in recruiting eligible participants resulting in an underpowered trial with poor ethnic diversity taking twice as long as planned to complete. We have explored the data in secondary analyses that indicate that, despite these difficulties, the findings were reliable.

Conclusions

The benefits of aldosterone receptor antagonism in chronic kidney disease trial found no evidence to support adding low-dose spironolactone (25 mg daily) in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 3b: there were no changes to cardiovascular events during the trial follow-up, either for the combined primary or individual components. There was also no evidence of benefit observed in rates of renal function decline over the trial, but much higher initial creatinine rise and estimated glomerular filtration rate decline, and to a higher percentage rate, in the intervention arm in the first few weeks of spironolactone treatment, which resulted in a high proportion of participants discontinuing spironolactone treatment at an early stage. These higher rates of negative renal change reduced in scale over the study but did not equalise between arms. The addition of 25 mg of spironolactone therefore provided no reno- or cardio-protection and was associated with an increase in adverse events.

Future work

These findings might not be applicable to different mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists.

Study registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN44522369.

Funding

This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: 12/01/52) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 29, No. 5. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.