Dapagliflozin in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Canagliflozin attenuates kidney injury, gut-derived toxins, and gut microbiota imbalance in high-salt diet-fed Dahl salt-sensitive rats

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of canagliflozin (20 mg/kg) on Dahl salt-sensitive (DSS) rat gut microbiota and salt-sensitive hypertension-induced kidney injury and further explore its possible mechanism.

METHODS

Rats were fed a high-salt diet to induce hypertension and kidney injury, and physical and physiological indicators were measured afterwards. This study employed 16S rRNA sequencing technology and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based metabolic profiling combined with advanced differential and association analyses to investigate the correlation between the microbiome and the metabolome in male DSS rats.

RESULTS

A high-salt diet disrupted the balance of the intestinal flora and increased toxic metabolites (methyhistidines, creatinine, homocitrulline, and indoxyl sulfate), resulting in severe kidney damage. Canagliflozin contributed to reconstructing the intestinal flora of DSS rats by significantly increasing the abundance of Corynebacterium spp., Bifidobacterium spp., Facklamia spp., Lactobacillus spp., Ruminococcus spp., Blautia spp., Coprococcus spp., and Allobaculum spp. Moreover, the reconstruction of the intestinal microbiota led to significant changes in host amino acid metabolite concentrations. The concentration of uremic toxins, such as methyhistidines, creatinine, and homocitrulline, in the serum of rats was decreased by canagliflozin, which resulted in oxidative stress and renal injury alleviation.

CONCLUSION

Canagliflozin may change the production of metabolites and reduce the level of uremic toxins in the blood circulation by reconstructing the intestinal flora of DSS rats fed a high-salt diet, ultimately alleviating oxidative stress and renal injury.

Examining the impact of renal dysfunction and diabetes on post-myocardial infarction mortality: insights from a comprehensive retrospective cohort study across different age groups

Aim. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) contribute significantly to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality, with prevalence increasing. The evolving demographic of myocardial infarction (MI) patients, influenced by sedentary lifestyles and advanced medical care, lacks understanding regarding the interplay of CKD, DM, age, and post-MI mortality. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the long-term impact of CKD and DM on post-MI mortality across age groups. Methods. A retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Estonian Myocardial Infarction Registry (EMIR), Estonian Population Register (EPR), and six major hospitals in Estonia, covering AMI hospitalizations from 2012 to 2019. Statistical analyses included Cox proportional hazards regression models and Kaplan-Meier's curves. Results. Analysis of 17,085 MI patients revealed age-dependent associations between renal function and mortality. In patients <65 years, even minor decreases in renal function increased both short-term (HR 2.79, 95% CI 1.71-4.55) and long-term (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.05-1.47) mortality. Mortality significantly increased in patients >80 years only below an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 44 ml/min/1.73 m2. Newly diagnosed DM patients exhibited higher mortality rates (average HR 1.53, 95% CI 1.45-1.62), while pre-DM did not significantly differ from non-DM patients across all age groups. The DM-renal failure interaction did not significantly influence mortality. Conclusions. An age-dependent association between eGFR and post-MI outcomes emphasizes the need for personalized therapeutic approaches considering age-specific eGFR thresholds and comorbidities to optimize patient management.

Risk factors for rapid kidney function decline in diabetes patients

Diabetic nephropathy, as a severe microvascular complication of diabetes, manifests in four clinical types: classic, albuminuria regression, a rapid decline in kidney function (RDKF), and non-proteinuric or non-albuminuric DKD. Rapidly progressive diabetic nephropathy advances to end-stage renal disease more swiftly than the typical form, posing significant risks. However, a comprehensive understanding of rapidly progressive diabetic nephropathy is currently lacking. This article reviewed latest developments in genetic and clinical risk factors associated with rapidly progressive diabetic nephropathy, aiming to broad perspectives concerning the diagnosis and interventions of this condition.

Long-term renal survival in patients with IgA nephropathy: a systematic review

The management strategy for IgA nephropathy (IgAN), has undergone constant improvements since the disease entity was first described 50 years ago. However, it is still unknown how these changes affected the long-term renal survival of IgAN patients. We systematically evaluate changes in IgAN renal survival by searching PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to 19 May 2024. We included a large sample of 103076 IgAN cases from 158 studies. Renal survival rates were 94.16% (95% CI: 94.02% to 94.31%), 88.68% (95% CI: 88.48% to 88.87%), and 78.13% (95% CI: 77.82% to 78.43%) at three, five, and ten-year, respectively. Over the past few decades, there haven't been any sound changes in the 3-year and 5-year renal survival rates. The kidney survival rate in developed countries is higher than in developing countries. Researchers consistently show that while proteinuria < 1.0 g/24 h, renal survival rates increase dramatically. In IgAN, long-term renal survival fluctuated rather than continuously improving over time. Our system review's findings indicate that supportive care-the most important recommendation for managing IgAN has shown promising results. The long-term outcomes of IgAN could be significantly improved by the latest developed treatment options.

The effects of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F on renal outcomes in type 2 diabetic kidney disease patients with severe proteinuria: a single-center cohort study

AIM

Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF) has been shown to substantially reduce proteinuria in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD); however, the effect of TwHF on renal outcomes in DKD remains unknown. Accordingly, we aimed to establish the effects of TwHF on renal outcomes in patients with DKD.

METHODS

Overall, 124 patients with DKD, induced by type 2 diabetes mellitus, with 24-h proteinuria > 2 g, and an estimated glomerular filtration rate > 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 were retrospectively investigated. The renal outcomes were defined as doubling serum creatinine levels or end-stage kidney disease. Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analyses were performed to analyze prognostic factors for renal outcomes.

RESULTS

By the end of the follow-up, renal outcomes were observed in 23 and 11 patients in the non-TwHF and TwHF groups, respectively (p = 0.006). TwHF significantly reduced the risk of renal outcomes (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 0.271, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.111-0.660, p = 0.004) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) G3 (adjusted HR 0.274, 95%CI 0.081-0.932, p = 0.039). Based on the Kaplan-Meier analysis, 1- and 3-year proportions of patients without renal outcomes were significantly lower in the non-TwHF group than those in the TwHF group (92.8% vs. 95.5% and 47.2% vs. 76.8%, respectively; p = 0.0018).

CONCLUSION

In DKD patients with severe proteinuria, TwHF could prevent DKD progression, especially in patients with CKD G3. A randomized clinical trial is needed to elucidate the benefits of TwHF on renal outcomes in patients with DKD.

Evaluation of self-monitoring of blood pressure in the PERHIT study and the impact on glomerular function

BACKGROUND

Although intensive blood pressure (BP) control has not been shown to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), intensive BP control has been shown to reduce the risk for adverse cardiovascular outcomes in the CKD population. The aim of this post-hoc study was to study the interplay between a self-monitoring BP system and glomerular function.

METHODS

In all, 949 participants with hypertension underwent visits at baseline, after eight weeks and 12 months. Half of the participants received a BP monitor and installed a program on their mobile phone. During eight weeks, they measured daily and reported their BP values.

RESULTS

Within the intervention group, BP and systolic BP (SBP) decreased from baseline to eight weeks and 12 months (p < .001). Pulse pressure (PP) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) decreased from baseline to eight weeks (p = .021 and p = .004) vs 12 months (p = .035 and p = .008). Within the control group, a decrease was observed from baseline to 12 months for SBP, diastolic BP (DBP) and PP (p = .025, p = .023 and p = .036). In the intervention group, we observed an association between a decrease in SBP, DBP, PP and MAP and a decrease in eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), (p < .001, p < .001, p = .013 and p < .001). In the control group, similar results were observed for PP only (p = .027). Within the intervention group, eGFR decreased (p < .001) but within the control group, the decrease was non-significant (p = .051).

CONCLUSION

We observed an association between a decrease in all BP components and eGFR decline within the normal range in the intervention group but not in the controls.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov [NCT03554382].

New insights into the cardio-renal benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors and the coordinated role of miR-30 family

Sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors (SGLTis) are the latest class of anti-hyperglycemic agents. In addition to inhibiting the absorption of glucose by the kidney causing glycosuria, these drugs also demonstrate cardio-renal benefits in diabetic subjects. miR-30 family, one of the most abundant microRNAs in the heart, has recently been linked to a setting of cardiovascular diseases and has been proposed as novel biomarkers in kidney dysfunctions as well; their expression is consistently dysregulated in a variety of cardio-renal dysfunctions. The mechanistic involvement and the potential interplay between miR-30 and SGLT2i effects have yet to be thoroughly elucidated. Recent research has stressed the relevance of this cluster of microRNAs as modulators of several pathological processes in the heart and kidneys, raising the possibility of these small ncRNAs playing a central role in various cardiovascular complications, notably, endothelial dysfunction and pathological remodeling. Here, we review current evidence supporting the pleiotropic effects of SGLT2is in cardiovascular and renal outcomes and investigate the link and the coordinated implication of the miR-30 family in endothelial dysfunction and cardiac remodeling. We also discuss the emerging role of circulating miR-30 as non-invasive biomarkers and attractive therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases and kidney diseases. Clinical evidence, as well as metabolic, cellular, and molecular aspects, are comprehensively covered.

SGLT2 inhibitor therapy in patients with advanced heart failure and reduced ejection fraction

AIMS

Sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLT2-i) improve outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, evidence in patients with advanced HF is lacking. We aimed to determine the effect of SGLT2-i in advanced HFrEF compared to their effect on a non-advanced population.

METHODS

Consecutive HFrEF outpatients who started SGLT2-i were observed for 6-months. Patients were categorized as having advanced or non-advanced HFrEF. The primary outcome was the trend of NTproBNP in the two groups. Secondary outcomes included changes in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and ejection fraction (LVEF). The association between advanced HF diagnosis and including N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) reduction was tested using multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 105 patients (45 advanced, 60 non-advanced) were included. Mean age was 56 ± 10 years, 22 % were female, and 35 % had ischemic heart disease. Median NTproBNP at baseline for advanced and non-advanced patients was 1672pg/ml (IQR 520-3320) vs. 481 pg/ml (IQR 173-917), respectively (p < 0.001). At follow-up, only non-advanced patients reduced their NTproBNP (-32 % (95 % CI -51 to -3), p < 0.001), while advanced patients had an increase in NTproBNP. LVEF and NYHA class improved only in non-advanced patients. GFR was stable in both subgroups. At multivariate analysis a diagnosis of advanced HF was independently associated with a reduced probability of NTproBNP reduction (OR 0.041 (95 % CI 0.002-0.752), p = 0.031). Only one patient discontinued the drug due to side effects.

CONCLUSION

In advanced HFrEF, SGLT2-i do not impact on NTproBNP, LVEF or NYHA class but are well tolerated.

Screening for chronic kidney disease: change of perspective and novel developments

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious health issue because of its rising global prevalence and its complications, such as kidney failure and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CKD is mainly diagnosed late or undiagnosed, delaying or missing the initiation of preventive interventions. Screening can prevent or delay progressive kidney function decline and CVD. This article reviews diagnostic tests and risk prediction developments for patients with CKD, highlights key evidence for targeted screening, and provides new insights into population-wide screening.

RECENT FINDINGS

Large cohort studies and clinical trial data established the strong association of albuminuria with CKD outcomes, supporting the role of albuminuria as target of CKD screening and treatment. Significant advances in both risk prediction of CKD and CVD in CKD patients and treatment options provided new evidence for the relevance and implications of CKD screening. Guidelines recommend targeted screening in high-risk patients, but evidence suggests limited adherence to guideline recommendations. More recently, population-wide screening has been investigated as another approach, showing potential effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

SUMMARY

There is increasing evidence for the methods, implications, and effectiveness of CKD screening. Implementing and optimizing screening strategies requires enhanced awareness and understanding of the possibilities for CKD screening within different healthcare systems.

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies examining the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors on peripheral artery disease and risk of amputations

AIM

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) are used to maintain glycaemic control as well as for their beneficial cardiovascular and renal effects in diabetes patients. However, increased risk of amputation and peripheral artery disease (PAD) have been observed with the use of some SGLT-2is. A meta-analysis was conducted to understand the effect of SGLT-2is on amputation and PAD events using data from randomized controlled trials (RCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted using Medline and Central databases for RCTs that involved the administration of SGLT-2is versus placebo/active comparators to diabetic patients. The primary outcome was amputation events and PAD. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled odds ratio, and subgroup analyses was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 51 RCTs were included in the meta-analysis with data from 97 589 patients. Meta-analysis of the data showed that there was a significant increase in PAD risk (p = 0.04) but no significant increase in amputation risk with SGLT-2i use versus placebo/active comparators (p = 0.43). Subgroup analyses demonstrated no significant difference between SGLT-2i type, duration of treatment or patient risk factors on amputation or PAD incidence. However, length of drug treatment (> 100 weeks) was associated with a significant increase in both PAD and amputation risks in the SGLT-2i treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the meta-analysis showed no significant association between SGLT-2i use and PAD and amputation risks in diabetic patients when used for shorter treatment durations.

Exploring SGLT-2 inhibitors and sarcopenia in FAERS: a post-marketing surveillance study

BACKGROUND

The sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) is associated with body weight loss but the composition of the losing weight remains unclear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Disproportionality analyses, including the reporting odds ratio (ROR), the proportional reporting ratio (PRR), the Bayesian confidence propagation neural network (BCPNN), and the multi- item gamma Poisson shrinker (MGPS) algorithms, were employed to quantify the signals of SGLT-2i-associated musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders AEs.

RESULTS

The search retrieved a total of 3,206 cases of musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorder-related AEs during the reporting period. This included 1,061 cases for Canagliflozin, 1,052 cases for Dapagliflozin, 1,074 cases for Empagliflozin, and 19 cases for Ertugliflozin. Fifteen preferred terms (PTs) with significant disproportionality were retained. No musculoskeletal and connective tissue system-related AE signals were reported for Ertugliflozin. We identified a risk of muscle necrosis with Canagliflozin use, a risk of sarcopenia with Dapagliflozin use, and a chance of muscle atrophy with Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin prescriptions. Most cases occurred within the first month after SGLT-2i initiation, and AEs can persist beyond 360 days of use.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identified potential new musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorder-related AE signals associated with SGLT-2 inhibitors.

Cardiovascular effectiveness of newer glucose-lowering agents, with and without baseline lipid-lowering therapy in type 2 diabetes: A systematic meta-analysis of cardiovascular outcome trials and real-world evidence

BACKGROUND

Whether the cardiovascular treatment benefits of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) differ by baseline use of statins/lipid lowering therapy is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated whether baseline statin use (users vs non-users) influences the cardiovascular and kidney benefits of SGLT-2is and GLP-1RAs in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

We identified relevant cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) and observational cohort studies from MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and bibliographic searches up to March 2024. The analysis pooled study-specific hazard ratios (HRs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for outcomes, categorized by baseline statin use status. We also assessed the interactions between these medications and baseline statin use by calculating and pooling the ratio of HRs (RHRs) within each trial.

RESULTS

Twenty-five articles (13 articles comprising 6 unique CVOTs and 12 articles comprising 9 unique cohort studies) were eligible. In CVOTs of SGLT-2is, the HRs (95 % CIs) of MACE; composite of CVD death or hospitalisation for heart failure; stroke; and kidney events in statin users were 0.90 (0.82-1.00), 0.78 (0.60-1.02), 1.00 (0.77-1.31), and 0.60 (0.53-0.69), respectively. The corresponding estimates were similar in non-statin users. In CVOTs of GLP-1RAs, the HRs (95 % CIs) for MACE in statin and non-statin users were 0.81 (0.73-0.90) and 0.92 (0.77-1.11), respectively. In observational cohort studies, SGLT-2is similarly reduced the risk of several cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in both statin and non-statin users. The estimated RHRs and p-values for interaction indicated that baseline statin use status did not significantly modify the cardio-kidney benefits of SGLT-2is and GLP-1RAs.

CONCLUSIONS

Aggregate analyses of intervention and real-world evidence show that SGLT-2is and GLP-1RAs provide comparable cardio-kidney benefits in patients with T2D, regardless of baseline statin use status. PROSPERO Registration: CRD42024498939.

Short term sodium glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors are associated with post contrast acute kidney injury in patients with diabetes

Although sodium-glucose transport protein-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) do not increase the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in general, they may pose a risk in patients undergoing angiography. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SGLT2i for post-contrast AKI (PC-AKI) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Following screening, 306 patients with T2DM selected to undergo coronary arterial angiography with or without percutaneous intervention were enrolled. Patients were divided into the SGLT2i exposure and non-exposure groups. The primary outcome was PC-AKI, defined as an increase in serum creatinine levels > 0.5 mg/dL (44.2 µmol/L), or 25% above the baseline, within 48-72 h after exposure to contrast medium. The incidence of PC-AKI in the overall T2DM population was 5.2% (16/306). Following 1:1 propensity score matching, the incidence of PC-AKI was significantly higher in the SGLT2i group than in the non-SGLT2i group (10.7% vs. 2.9%; P = 0.027), with an odds ratio of 4.5 (95% confidence interval: 1.0-20.2; P = 0.047). Furthermore, PC-AKI occurred at a higher rate among short-term users of SGLT2i than long-term users (20.5% vs. 3.4%, P = 0.018). Thus, our findings suggest an increased risk of PC-AKI associated with short-term SGLT2i therapy in patients with T2DM.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults: pathogenesis, prevention and therapy

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a disease characterized by heterogeneously progressive loss of islet β cell insulin secretion usually occurring after the presence of insulin resistance (IR) and it is one component of metabolic syndrome (MS), and we named it metabolic dysfunction syndrome (MDS). The pathogenesis of T2D is not fully understood, with IR and β cell dysfunction playing central roles in its pathophysiology. Dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, along with other metabolic disorders, results in IR and/or islet β cell dysfunction via some shared pathways, such as inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), oxidative stress, and ectopic lipid deposition. There is currently no cure for T2D, but it can be prevented or in remission by lifestyle intervention and/or some medication. If prevention fails, holistic and personalized management should be taken as soon as possible through timely detection and diagnosis, considering target organ protection, comorbidities, treatment goals, and other factors in reality. T2D is often accompanied by other components of MDS, such as preobesity/obesity, metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease, dyslipidemia, which usually occurs before it, and they are considered as the upstream diseases of T2D. It is more appropriate to call "diabetic complications" as "MDS-related target organ damage (TOD)", since their development involves not only hyperglycemia but also other metabolic disorders of MDS, promoting an up-to-date management philosophy. In this review, we aim to summarize the underlying mechanism, screening, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of T2D, especially regarding the personalized selection of hypoglycemic agents and holistic management based on the concept of "MDS-related TOD".

Cardiovascular risk reduction in type 2 diabetes: What the non-specialist needs to know about current guidelines

In the US, approximately 11% of the population have diagnosed diabetes and nearly 40% have prediabetes. In addition, chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 14% of the US population including up to 40% of those with diabetes. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide where it affects approximately half of adults. The presence of CKD or diabetes doubles the risk of cardiovascular events. When both CKD and diabetes occur in the same patient the risks are further increased. The clinical problems of hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia are all closely related with obesity, metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, CKD, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. The increasing frequency of obesity has driven increases in all of these medical comorbidities. These conditions frequently cluster together in the same patient exacerbating the risk of morbidity and mortality. They are also associated with cognitive dysfunction/dementia, pulmonary diseases, cancers, gastrointestinal diseases, immune system abnormalities, and inflammatory disorders. Only 6.8% of adults in US meet all targets for cardiovascular risk management with significant disparities based on race and ethnicity. Given the complexity of these multisystem problems in people with diabetes and obesity, it would seem reasonable to attempt to diagnose and treat many of the comorbidities earlier in the course of disease rather than wait for substantial end organ dysfunction to occur. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has recently published a consensus statement recommending early screening for the diagnosis of heart failure, CKD and diabetes, recognizing both the frequency and gravity of this combination. Likewise, there are recommendations in the guidelines to facilitate screening for microalbuminuria, blood pressure, glycemic control and lipids earlier in patients at risk rather than wait and treat as a secondary prevention program. Thus, the general principle is to facilitate earlier recognition and diagnosis and provide treatment before downstream target organ complications occur. This review will focus on CVD and risk management based on newest recommendations and standards of care in people with diabetes by the ADA. The main considerations in the treatment of people with diabetes are glycemic control, blood pressure, lipids, and the use of medications with proven cardiorenal disease progression capability to prevent or delay.

Chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes: The size of the problem, addressing residual renal risk and what we have learned from the CREDENCE trial

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is a global challenge; progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with advancing nephropathy are a significant source of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditure. Until recently, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockade was the mainstay of pharmacotherapy in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), representing a therapeutic paradigm shift towards interventions that delay disease progression independently of antihypertensive effects. However, a significant residual risk of DKD progression persisted in patients established on RAS blockade, highlighting the need for additional treatment options. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, originally licensed as glucose-lowering agents in people with T2DM, serendipitously demonstrated beneficial renal and cardiovascular outcomes in clinical trials designed primarily to evaluate their cardiovascular safety. The Canagliflozin and Renal Events in Diabetes with Established Nephropathy Clinical Evaluation (CREDENCE) trial was the first to study the effect of SGLT2 inhibition on a primary composite renal endpoint of ESKD, doubling of serum creatinine, or renal or cardiovascular death in 4401 people with T2DM and CKD established on RAS blockade. The trial was stopped early due to efficacy, demonstrating a 30% relative risk reduction in the primary endpoint in the canagliflozin group (hazard ratio 0.70, 95% confidence interval 0.59-0.82; p = 0.00001). Through discussion of the primary analysis from CREDENCE, and selected post hoc analyses, we review the significant benefits highlighted by this landmark study, its role in shaping clinical guidelines, and in re-establishing interest in interventions that reduce the residual risk of progression of DKD, alongside its interrelation with cardiovascular morbidity and heart failure. We also provide a brief narrative summary of key renal outcome trials since CREDENCE, which indicate emerging avenues for pharmacotherapy beyond SGLT2 inhibition.

Forecasting Trial Milestones: A Predictive Analysis for Early Termination of the SOUL Study

INTRODUCTION

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP1RA), is available in both parenteral and oral preparations. Studies of injectable preparations have convincingly demonstrated its beneficial effect on major adverse cardiac events (MACE). This predictive analysis was undertaken to forecast early termination of the SOUL trial (oral semaglutide) as well as the primary events.

METHODS

SOUL is a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the reduction in MACE associated with oral semaglutide versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular (CV) disease. A sample of 9642 participants will be followed for 5 years and 5 months. A random-effects model meta-analysis, pooling hazard ratios from previous RCTs, was conducted using R software to inform the predictive model. The background CV event rates from the placebo arms of previous RCTs with semaglutide were matched with the pre-adjudicated assumptions of the SOUL trial to create the predictive model. The truncated trial duration, MACE, and its individual components in the intervention and placebo arms were estimated. The predicted difference between the two groups was estimated using the chi-squared test.

RESULTS

A pooled analysis of 10,013 patients revealed a significant reduction in the number of MACEs associated with semaglutide (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.69-0.91). Predictive analysis indicated that 1225 events would be achieved by 3.78 years, suggesting premature termination.

CONCLUSION

The mathematical model based on the meta-analysis predicts that the SOUL study on oral semaglutide will be terminated early, with oral semaglutide showing benefits in terms of MACE compared to placebo. If the SOUL study corroborates the findings of this model, it may not only form the basis for the calculation of power but also define the duration of such studies, reducing costs and easing the process of designing cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs).

PROTOCOL REGISTRATION

INPLASY202460061.

The Broader Effects of Delayed Progression to End-Stage Kidney Disease: Delaying the Inevitable or a Meaningful Change?

A global rise in the prevalence of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) has led to a considerable and increasing burden to health systems, patients, and society. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are proven to reduce incidence of cardio-renal outcomes, including onset of ESKD. Recent post hoc analyses of SGLT2 inhibitor trials extrapolate substantial delays in the average time to ESKD over a patient's lifetime. In this article, we explore the possible real-world effects of such a delay by considering the available evidence reporting outcomes following onset of ESKD. From the patient perspective, a delay in reaching ESKD could substantially improve health-related quality of life and result in additional life years without the need for kidney replacement therapies, a target relevant to all CKD subpopulations. Furthermore, should a patient initiate dialysis at an older age as a result of CKD progression, the time spent in receipt of dialysis, and therefore associated healthcare costs, may also be reduced. A delay in progression may also lead to changes in the management of ESKD, such as increased election of conservative care in preference to dialysis, particularly in elderly populations. For younger patients with CKD, those who reach ESKD while employed face considerable work impairment and productivity loss, as may families and care partners of working age. Therefore, a delay to the onset of ESKD will reduce the proportion of their working lives affected by productivity losses or unemployment due to medical reasons. In conclusion, optimised treatment of CKD may lead to a shift in treatment options, but proper and timely implementation is essential for the realisation of improved outcomes.

Additional renoprotective effect of the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin in a patient with ADPKD receiving tolvaptan treatment

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a major cause of end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Vasopressin plays a pivotal role in ADPKD progression; therefore, the selective vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist tolvaptan is used as a key drug in the management of ADPKD. On the other hand, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), which may possibly stimulate vasopressin secretion due to the diuretic effect of the drug, have been shown to have both renal and cardioprotective effects in various populations, including those with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease. However, the effect of SGLT2i in patients with ADPKD have not been fully elucidated. Herein, we report the case of a patient with ADPKD on tolvaptan who was administered the SGLT2i dapagliflozin. The patient was a Japanese woman diagnosed with ADPKD at age 30. Despite the treatment with tolvaptan, eGFR was gradually declined from 79.8 to 50 ml/min/1.73 m2 in almost 5 years and 10 mg of dapagliflozin was initiated in the hope of renoprotective effects. Although a small increase in vasopressin levels was observed, eGFR decline rate was moderated after dapagliflozin initiation. This case suggested an additional renoprotective effect of dapagliflozin in patient with ADPKD receiving tolvaptan. Although there is no evidence about the renal protective effect of SGLT2i in patients with ADPKD, we hereby report a case successfully treated with dapagliflozin for approximately 2 years. Further research, including clinical trials, is needed to evaluate whether SGLT2i are effective in patients with ADPKD.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors for adults with chronic kidney disease: a clinical practice guideline

CLINICAL QUESTION

What is the impact of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors on survival and on cardiovascular and kidneyoutcomes for adults living with chronic kidney disease (CKD)?

CURRENT PRACTICE

Few therapies slow kidney disease progression and improve long term prognosis for adults living with CKD. SGLT-2 inhibitors have demonstrated cardiovascular and kidney benefits in adults with CKD with and without type 2 diabetes. Existing guidance for SGLT-2 inhibitors does not account for the totality of current best evidence for adults with CKD and does not provide fully stratified treatment effects and recommendations across all risk groups based on risk of CKD progression and complications.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The guideline panel considered evidence regarding benefits and harms of SGLT-2 inhibitor therapy for adults with CKD over a five year period, along with contextual factors, and provided the following recommendations:1. For adults at low risk of CKD progression and complications, we suggest administering SGLT-2 inhibitors (weak recommendation in favour)2. For adults at moderate risk of CKD progression and complications, we suggest administering SGLT-2 inhibitors (weak recommendation in favour)3. For adults at high risk of CKD progression and complications, we recommend administering SGLT-2 inhibitors (strong recommendation in favour)4. For adults at very high risk of CKD progression and complications, we recommend administering SGLT-2 inhibitors (strong recommendation in favour).Recommendations are applicable to all adults with CKD, irrespective of type 2 diabetes status.

HOW THIS GUIDELINE WAS CREATED

An international panel including patients, clinicians, and methodologists produced these recommendations following standards for trustworthy guidelines and using the GRADE approach. The panel identified typical risk strata of adults with CKD (from low to very high risk of CKD progression and related complications) using the classification system developed by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO), and applied an individual patient perspective in moving from evidence to recommendations. Effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors were interpreted in absolute terms applicable to different risk strata with varying baseline risks for outcomes of benefit over a five year period. The panel explicitly considered the balance of benefits, harms, and burdens of starting an SGLT-2 inhibitor, incorporating the values and preferences of adults with different risk profiles. Interactive evidence summaries and decision aids accompany multilayered recommendations, developed in an online authoring and publication platform (www.magicapp.org) that allows reuse and adaptation.

THE EVIDENCE

A linked systematic review and pairwise meta-analysis (13 trials including 29 614 participants) of benefits and harms associated with SGLT-2 inhibitors in adults with CKD with or without type 2 diabetes informed guidance. Among individuals at very high risk of CKD progression and complications, moderate to high certainty evidence shows SGLT-2 inhibitors (relative to placebo or standard care without SGLT-2 inhibitors) decrease all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, hospitalisation for heart failure, kidney failure, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke. Among individuals at high risk, moderate to high certainty evidence shows SGLT-2 inhibitors result in similar benefits across outcomes except demonstrating little or no effect on hospitalisation for heart failure and kidney failure. Among individuals at moderate and low risk, moderate to high certainty evidence shows SGLT-2 inhibitors probably reduce all-cause mortality and non-fatal stroke, with little or no effect for other outcomes of benefit. Risk-stratified estimates were unavailable for outcomes of harm; the panel therefore considered absolute effects summarised across risk strata. SGLT-2 inhibitors are associated with little or no effect on acute kidney injury requiring dialysis, bone fractures, lower limb amputations, ketoacidosis, genital infections, or symptomatic hypovolaemia, although a residual possibility of harms at the individual patient level remains.

UNDERSTANDING THE RECOMMENDATION

In order to apply recommendations, clinicians must appropriately identify adults with CKD, consider the underlying aetiology, and risk stratify them based on glomerular filtration rate (estimated or measured) and degree of albuminuria. In addition to classifying individuals into risk strata, further estimation of a given patient's risk based on the extent of their kidney disease and other comorbidities may be warranted to inform individual-level decisions and shared decision making. Available risk calculators may help estimate a given patient's risk of CKD progression and complications.

Effects of semaglutide, empagliflozin and their combination on renal diffusion-weighted MRI and total kidney volume in patients with type 2 diabetes: a post hoc analysis from a 32 week randomised trial

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) derived from diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI-MRI) has been proposed as a measure of changes in kidney microstructure, including kidney fibrosis. In advanced kidney disease, the kidneys often become atrophic; however, in the initial phase of type 2 diabetes, there is an increase in renal size. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors both provide protection against progression of kidney disease in diabetes. However, the mechanisms are incompletely understood. To explore this, we examined the effects of semaglutide, empagliflozin and their combination on renal ADC and total kidney volume (TKV).

METHODS

This was a substudy of a randomised clinical trial on the effects of semaglutide and empagliflozin alone or in combination. Eighty patients with type 2 diabetes and high risk of CVD were randomised into four groups (n=20 in each) receiving either tablet placebo, empagliflozin, a combination of semaglutide and tablet placebo (herein referred to as the 'semaglutide' group), or the combination of semaglutide and empagliflozin (referred to as the 'combination-therapy' group). The semaglutide and the combination-therapy group had semaglutide treatment for 16 weeks and then had either tablet placebo or empagliflozin added to the treatment, respectively, for a further 16 weeks; the placebo and empagliflozin groups were treated with the respective monotherapy for 32 weeks. We analysed the effects of treatment on changes in ADC (cortical, medullary and the cortico-medullary difference [ΔADC; medullary ADC subtracted from cortical ADC]), as well as TKV measured by MRI.

RESULTS

Both semaglutide and empagliflozin decreased cortical ADC significantly compared with placebo (semaglutide: -0.20×10-3 mm2/s [95% CI -0.30, -0.10], p<0.001; empagliflozin: -0.15×10-3 mm2/s [95% CI -0.26, -0.04], p=0.01). No significant change was observed in the combination-therapy group (-0.05×10-3 mm2/s [95%CI -0.15, 0.05]; p=0.29 vs placebo). The changes in cortical ADC were not associated with changes in GFR, albuminuria, TKV or markers of inflammation. Further, there were no changes in medullary ADC in any of the groups compared with placebo. Only treatment with semaglutide changed ΔADC significantly from placebo, showing a decrease of -0.13×10-3 mm2/s (95% CI -0.22, -0.04; p=0.01). Compared with placebo, TKV decreased by -3% (95% CI -5%, -0.3%; p=0.04), -3% (95% CI -5%, -0.4%; p=0.02) and -5% (95% CI -8%, -2%; p<0.001) in the semaglutide, empagliflozin and combination-therapy group, respectively. The changes in TKV were associated with changes in GFR, albuminuria and HbA1c.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In a population with type 2 diabetes and high risk of CVD, semaglutide and empagliflozin significantly reduced cortical ADC compared with placebo, indicating microstructural changes in the kidneys. These changes were not associated with changes in GFR, albuminuria or inflammation. Further, we found a decrease in TKV in all active treatment groups, which was possibly mediated by a reduction in hyperfiltration. Our findings suggest that DWI-MRI may serve as a promising tool for investigating the underlying mechanisms of medical interventions in individuals with type 2 diabetes but may reflect effects not related to fibrosis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT) 2019-000781-38.

Clinical trial designs to assess treatment effects on glomerular filtration rate decline

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decline is used as surrogate endpoint for kidney failure. Interventions that reduce chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression often exert acute GFR reductions which differ from their long-term benefits and complicate the estimation of long-term benefit. Here, we assessed the utility of two alternative trial designs (wash-out design and active run-in randomized withdrawal design) that attempt to exclude the impact of acute effects. Post-hoc analyses of two clinical trials that characterized the effect of an intervention with acute reductions in GFR were conducted. The two trials included a wash-out period (EMPA-REG Outcome testing empagliflozin vs placebo) or an active run-in period with a randomized withdrawal (SONAR testing atrasentan vs placebo). We compared the drug effect on GFR decline calculated from the first on-treatment visit to the end of treatment (chronic slope in a standard randomized trial design) with GFR change calculated from randomization to end of wash out, or GFR change from treatment-specific baseline GFR values (GFR at start-of-run-in for placebo and end-of-run-in for atrasentan) until end-of-treatment. The effect of empagliflozin versus placebo on chronic GFR slope was 1.72 (95% confidence interval 1.49-1.94) mL/min/1.73 m2/year, similar to total GFR decline from baseline to the end of wash-out period using a linear mixed model 1.64 (1.44-1.85) mL/min/1.73 m2/year). The effect of atrasentan versus placebo on chronic GFR slope was 0.72 (0.32-1.11) mL/min/1.73 m2/year, similar to total slope from a single slope model when estimated from treatment specific baseline GFR values 0.77 (0.39-1.14) mL/min/1.73 m2/year). Statistical power of the two designs outperformed the standard randomized design. Thus, wash-out and active-run-in randomized-withdrawal trial designs are appropriate models to compute treatment effects on GFR decline.

The potential role of finerenone in patients with type 1 diabetes and chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a global health concern, associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and decreased quality of life. Many patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) will develop CKD over their lifetime. Uncontrolled glucose levels, which occur in patients with T1D as well as type 2 diabetes (T2D), are associated with substantial mortality and cardiovascular disease burden. T2D and T1D share common pathological features of CKD, which is thought to be driven by haemodynamic dysfunction, metabolic disturbances, and subsequently an influx of inflammatory and profibrotic mediators, both of which are major interrelated contributors to CKD progression. The mineralocorticoid receptor is also involved, and, under conditions of oxidative stress, salt loading and hyperglycaemia, it switches from homeostatic regulator to pathophysiological mediator by promoting oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis. Progressive glomerular and tubular injury leads to macroalbuminuria a progressive reduction in the glomerular filtration rate and eventually end-stage renal disease. Finerenone, a non-steroidal, selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, is approved for treatment of patients with CKD associated with T2D; however, the benefit of finerenone in patients with T1D has yet to be determined. This narrative review will discuss treatment of CKD in T1D and the potential future role of finerenone in this setting.

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

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

Characteristics and outcome of hospitalized patients with heart failure stratified for chronic kidney disease

AIMS

Heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) place significant challenges on the healthcare system, and their co-existence is associated with shared adverse outcomes. The multinational CaReMe project was initiated to provide contemporary, real-world epidemiological data on cardiovascular and reno-metabolic diseases. Utilizing data from the German CaReMe cohort, we characterize a multicentric HF population and describe in-hospital outcomes stratified for co-morbid CKD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective, observational study analysed administrative data from inpatient cases hospitalized in 87 German Helios hospitals between 1 January 2016 and 31 August 2022. The first hospitalization of patients aged ≥18 years with a primary discharge diagnosis of HF, based on ICD-10 codes, were considered the index cases, and subsequent hospitalizations were considered as readmissions. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were stratified for co-morbid CKD using ICD-10-encoding from the index cases. Cox regression was utilized for readmission endpoints and in-hospital mortality. In total, 174 829 index cases (mean age 79 ± 15 years, 49.9% female) were included; of these, 55.0% had coexisting CKD. Patients with CKD were older, suffered from worse HF-related symptoms, had a higher co-morbidity burden, and in-hospital mortality was increased at index and during follow-up. Prevalent CKD was associated with higher rehospitalization rates and was an independent predictor for in-hospital death.

CONCLUSIONS

Within this HF inpatient cohort from a multicentric German database, CKD was diagnosed in more than half of the patients and was associated with increased in-hospital mortality at baseline and during follow-up. Rehospitalizations were observed earlier and more frequently in patients with HF and co-morbid CKD.

Early Identification and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Narrative Review of the Crucial Role of Primary Care Practitioners

Early-stage (stage 1-3) chronic kidney disease (CKD) has an asymptomatic presentation such that most people with CKD are unaware of their disease status and remain undiagnosed. CKD is associated with multiple long-term conditions (MLTC), or multimorbidity, the most common of these being cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Primary care practitioners (PCPs) are crucial in the early identification and management of patients with CKD. For individuals at high risk of CKD, measurements of estimated glomerular filtration rate, urine albumin-creatinine ratio, and blood pressure should be obtained regularly and recorded in a timely manner. The importance of lifestyle changes in the prevention and management of CKD should also be highlighted. A recent addition to the treatment of CKD in people with and without type 2 diabetes has been the recommendation by clinical practice guidelines of a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor alongside a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor as foundational therapy. SGLT2 inhibitors prevent CKD progression and reduce fatal and non-fatal kidney and cardiovascular events, hospitalization for heart failure, and all-cause mortality, and they have a favorable safety and tolerability profile. However, uptake has been slow, particularly in people with CKD without type 2 diabetes. A multifaceted approach is required to ensure that people with CKD receive optimal kidney protection. Measures to raise awareness of the importance of early identification and intervention include local/national campaigns via social media and practice-based education; clinical education programs; integration of clinical decision support tools into electronic health records; detection programs built around electronic health records; and good interdisciplinary communication. PCPs at the forefront of multidisciplinary care are best placed to implement the evidence-based clinical practice CKD guidelines for lifestyle modification and guideline-directed medical therapy.

Effects on calcium phosphate homeostasis after sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on calcium phosphate homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remain uncertain.

METHODS

A retrospective observational cohort study of patients with T2DM at CKD stage G3b-5ND who received SGLT2i as compared to control from 1 January 2015 through 31 December 2021 was recruited. Propensity score assignment at 1:3 ratio by logistic regression was done. All patients were followed for 12 months. Outcomes were changes in phosphate level.

RESULTS

We analyzed 1,450 SGLT2i users and 4,350 control subjects. At the 12th month, SGLT2i users had a slower increase in phosphate levels (absolute change: -0.01 ± 0.28 vs + 0.14 ± 0.34 mmol/L; percentage change: -0.74 % ± 25.56 vs + 10.88 ± 28.15 %, P for both < 0.001). The proportion of patients with high phosphate was lower with SGLT2i (8.2 % vs 24.6 % increase). In the generalized estimating equation, SGLT2i was linked to a longitudinal reduction in phosphate (B -0.039, P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i can effectively slow down the progression of phosphate retention in advanced CKD with T2DM.

Sequencing Quadruple Therapy for Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Does It Really Matter?

The conventional sequence of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) initiation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) assumes that the effectiveness and tolerability of GDMT agents mirror their order of discovery, which is not true. In this review, the authors discuss flexible GDMT sequencing that should be permitted in special populations, such as patients with bradycardia, chronic kidney disease, or atrial fibrillation. Moreover, the initiation of certain GDMT medications may enable tolerance of other GDMT medications. Most importantly, the achievement of partial doses of all four pillars of GDMT is better than achievement of target dosing of only a couple.

Euglycemic Ketoacidosis Associated with SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Non-diabetic Patients-A Narrative Review

Euglycemic ketoacidosis is an acute, life-threatening emergency that is characterized by euglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and ketonemia. It is a well-recognized adverse event in diabetic patients taking sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT-2 inhibitor). However, there is limited data on SGLT-2 inhibitor-related euglycemic ketoacidosis in non-diabetic patients. The mechanism behind SGLT-2 inhibitor-associated euglycemic ketoacidosis involves a general state of starvation or relative insulin deficiency, which exacerbates the mild baseline ketonemia caused by this class of medications while normoglycemia is maintained. The incidence of euglycemic ketoacidosis will likely increase with the increasing use of SGLT-2 inhibitors for various indications in addition to diabetes mellitus type 2, predominantly for congestive heart failure (CHF). Recognizing the signs and symptoms of this life-threatening condition is essential to treat it effectively. Our objective is to comprehensively revisit the pathophysiology of euglycemic ketoacidosis associated with SGLT-2 inhibitors and the risk factors for the condition, review the available data, and summarize the reported cases of euglycemic ketoacidosis in non-diabetic patients on SGLT-2 inhibitors. Our literature search identified five articles with six cases of euglycemic ketoacidosis in non-diabetic patients who were on SGLT-2 inhibitors for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The common risk factor in five out of the six cases was decreased oral intake due to acute illness, fasting, or a perioperative state.

The Impact of Glycemic Control on Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitor-Associated Genitourinary Infections

BACKGROUND

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at an increased risk of genital urinary (GU) infections, with the risk increasing with higher A1Cs. Given the broad adoption of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in patients with T2D, both providers and patients need to be aware of common adverse effects associated with these medications, specifically GU infections. However trials involving SGLT2is looked at patients with an average A1C of less than 9%, and thus, the incidence of GU infections may not truly reflect the general diabetic population.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to assess the association between GU infections in patients started on SGLT2is and A1C levels.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on patients seen in an adult, primary care clinic, at New York City Health and Hospitals, South Brooklyn Health. Men and nonpregnant, nonlactating women >18 years old with a diagnosis of T2D who were initiated on an SGLT2i between January 2018 and January 2023 were included in the analysis. The primary endpoint is to compare the risk of GU infections in patients with T2D who were started on SGLT2is, regardless of dose, with hemoglobin A1C of >9% to those with hemoglobin A1C <9% at baseline.

RESULTS

Three hundred and twenty-eight patients were eligible based on specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Overall, there was a statistically significant difference in the number of GU infections that occurred in patients with a baseline A1C >9% compared with those with an A1C <9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05-2.88; P = 0.041).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Type 2 diabetes patients initiated on SGLT2is may experience an increased risk of GU infection, especially in those patients with an A1C of 9% or greater. Further research is necessary to validate and expand upon these findings.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis of cardiovascular outcome trials

BACKGROUND

In patients surviving stroke, approximately 15% and 60% exhibit concurrent diabetes mellitus and overweight/obesity, respectively, necessitating heightened secondary prevention efforts. Despite glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) demonstrating improved outcomes for those with diabetes mellitus or obesity, their underutilization persists among eligible individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the impact of GLP-1 RAs on stroke risk. The findings aim to optimize the implementation of this therapeutic strategy in patients surviving stroke with diabetes mellitus or obesity.

METHODS

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically reviewed MEDLINE and Scopus until 15 November 2023. Eligible studies included randomized cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) with individuals, with or without type 2 diabetes, randomized to either GLP-1 RA or placebo. The outcomes were total strokes, non-fatal strokes, and fatal strokes. Analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4.1.

RESULTS

Among 1369 screened studies, 11 were eligible, encompassing 82,140 participants (34.6% women) with a cumulative follow-up of 247,596 person-years. In the GLP-1 RAs group, the stroke rate was significantly lower compared to placebo (RR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.77-0.93; NNT: 200), showing no heterogeneity or interaction with administration frequency (daily vs weekly). In addition, the GLP-1 RAs group exhibited a significantly lower rate of non-fatal strokes compared to placebo (RR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79-0.95; NNT: 250), with no heterogeneity or interaction based on administration frequency, route (oral vs subcutaneous), or diabetes presence.

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis of 11 CVOTs with 82,140 participants, GLP-1 RAs demonstrated a 16% relative reduction in stroke risk compared to placebo. This finding may increase implementation of GLP-1 RAs by stroke specialists in individuals with stroke and comorbid diabetes mellitus or obesity.

DATA ACCESS STATEMENT

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

A potential novel treatment for cirrhosis-related ascites: Empagliflozin is safe and tolerable in advanced chronic liver disease

AIMS

Advanced chronic liver disease and advanced chronic liver disease-related ascites have a high mortality. The pharmacological treatment of ascites and fluid overload has changed little over time. Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitor is an untested potential novel treatment in cirrhosis, as it has survival benefits in heart failure, which has similar pathophysiological fluid overload mechanisms. Before investigating empagliflozin's potential benefit in cirrhosis, its safety must be addressed.

METHODS

Ten participants (five each with compensated or decompensated advanced chronic liver disease, based on Child-Pugh class) received empagliflozin 10 mg orally daily for 4 weeks with 2 weeks follow-up. Empagliflozin safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were investigated.

RESULTS

In total, eight patients (80%) reported an adverse event, and three patients (30%) experienced a serious adverse event, one of which was attributed to empagliflozin. Overall, the frequency of adverse events was similar to previous phase 3 trials of gliflozins. Higher plasma empagliflozin concentrations did not significantly increase the risk of adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Four-week treatment with empagliflozin was safe and well tolerated in patients with advanced chronic liver disease. These preliminary data support assessment of long-term treatment on disease-related and mortality outcomes in patients with cirrhosis through randomized control trials.

DCRM 2.0: Multispecialty practice recommendations for the management of diabetes, cardiorenal, and metabolic diseases

The spectrum of cardiorenal and metabolic diseases comprises many disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), chronic kidney disease (CKD), atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), heart failure (HF), dyslipidemias, hypertension, and associated comorbidities such as pulmonary diseases and metabolism dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and metabolism dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASLD and MASH, respectively, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis [NAFLD and NASH]). Because cardiorenal and metabolic diseases share pathophysiologic pathways, two or more are often present in the same individual. Findings from recent outcome trials have demonstrated benefits of various treatments across a range of conditions, suggesting a need for practice recommendations that will guide clinicians to better manage complex conditions involving diabetes, cardiorenal, and/or metabolic (DCRM) diseases. To meet this need, we formed an international volunteer task force comprising leading cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and primary care physicians to develop the DCRM 2.0 Practice Recommendations, an updated and expanded revision of a previously published multispecialty consensus on the comprehensive management of persons living with DCRM. The recommendations are presented as 22 separate graphics covering the essentials of management to improve general health, control cardiorenal risk factors, and manage cardiorenal and metabolic comorbidities, leading to improved patient outcomes.

Long-term outcomes of phenoclusters in preclinical heart failure with preserved and mildly reduced ejection fraction

AIMS

The identification of subjects at higher risk for incident heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (EF) suitable for more intensive preventive programmes remains challenging. We applied phenomapping to the DAVID-Berg population, comprising subjects with preclinical HF, aiming to refine HF risk stratification.

METHODS

The DAVID-Berg study prospectively enrolled 596 asymptomatic outpatients with EF > 40% with hypertension, diabetes mellitus or known cardiovascular disease. In this cohort, we performed an unsupervised cluster analysis on 591 patients, including clinical, laboratory, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters. We tested the association between each cluster and a composite outcome of HF/death.

RESULTS

The median age was 70 years, 55.5% were males and the median EF was 61.0%. Phenomapping provided three different clusters. Subjects in Cluster 3 were the oldest and had the highest prevalence of atrial fibrillation, the lowest estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), the highest N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and the largest left atrium. During a median follow-up of 5.7 years, 13.4% of subjects experienced HF/death events (N = 79). Compared with Clusters 1 and 2, Cluster 3 had the worst prognosis (log-rank test: Cluster 3 vs. 1 P < 0.001; Cluster 3 vs. 2 P = 0.008). Cluster 3 was associated with a risk of HF/death 2.5 times higher than Cluster 1 [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 2.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.24-4.90].

CONCLUSIONS

Based on phenomapping, older patients with lower kidney function and worse diastolic function might represent a subset of preclinical HF with EF > 40% who deserve more efforts to prevent clinical HF.

Tissue-specific activation of insulin signaling as a potential target for obesity-related metabolic disorders

The incidence of obesity is rapidly increasing worldwide. Obesity-associated insulin resistance has long been established as a significant risk factor for obesity-related disorders such as type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. Insulin plays a key role in systemic glucose metabolism, with the liver, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue as the major acting tissues. Insulin receptors and the downstream insulin signaling-related molecules are expressed in various tissues, including vascular endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and monocytes/macrophages. In obesity, decreased insulin action is considered a driver for associated disorders. However, whether insulin action has a positive or negative effect on obesity-related disorders depends on the tissue in which it acts. While an enhancement of insulin signaling in the liver increases hepatic fat accumulation and exacerbates dyslipidemia, enhancement of insulin signaling in adipose tissue protects against obesity-related dysfunction of various organs by increasing the capacity for fat accumulation in the adipose tissue and inhibiting ectopic fat accumulation. Thus, this "healthy adipose tissue expansion" by enhancing insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue, but not in the liver, may be an effective therapeutic strategy for obesity-related disorders. To effectively address obesity-related metabolic disorders, the mechanisms of insulin resistance in various tissues of obese patients must be understood and drugs that enhance insulin action must be developed. In this article, we review the potential of interventions that enhance insulin signaling as a therapeutic strategy for obesity-related disorders, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of insulin action in each tissue.

Body weight change associated kidney outcomes of sodium-glucose cotransporter new users

AIM

To investigate the clinical significance of body weight changes on kidney outcomes among individuals with diabetes using sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study using a nationwide epidemiological database, and we conducted an analysis involving 11 569 individuals with diabetes who were newly prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors. The main outcome was the rate of decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), determined through a linear mixed-effects model with an unstructured covariance structure.

RESULTS

The median age of the patients was 52 (Q1-Q3: 47-58) years, and the median fasting plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were 144 (Q1-Q3: 124-175) mg/dL and 7.4 (Q1-Q3: 6.8-8.3)%, respectively. The median estimated eGFR was 77.7 (Q1-Q3: 67.2-89.1) mL/min/1.73 m2. The median follow-up period was 1.7 (Q1-Q3: 1.0-2.6) years. Participants were stratified into three groups based on the body mass index change rate tertiles between baseline and 1 year after (tertile 1: <-4.55%, tertile 2: -4.55% to -1.43%, tertile 3: >-1.43%). The annual change in eGFR was -0.78 (-0.94 to -0.63) mL/min/1.73 m2 in tertile 1, -0.95 (-1.09 to -0.81) mL/min/1.73 m2 in tertile 2, and -1.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 (-1.84 to -1.47) in tertile 3 (pinteraction < 0.001). A variety of sensitivity analyses confirmed the relationship between the 1-year body mass index decrease and favourable kidney outcomes after SGLT2 inhibitor administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis of a nationwide epidemiological cohort revealed that kidney outcomes following the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors would be more favourable, with greater body weight loss observed after the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors.

Ertugliflozin to Reduce Arrhythmic Burden in Patients with ICDs/CRT-Ds

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have beneficial pleiotropic effects, contributing to improved cardiovascular and renal outcomes for patients with and without diabetes. The impact of SGLT2is on arrhythmic burden remains largely unexplored through randomized trials.

METHODS

In this multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, we investigated the effects of ertugliflozin on arrhythmic burden among patients with heart failure with an ejection fraction less than 50%. All patients had an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) with or without a cardiac resynchronization therapy device (CRT-D) and were randomized (1:1) to receive either ertugliflozin 5 mg once daily or placebo. The primary end point was the number of incident sustained (>30 seconds) ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation events from baseline to week 52. Secondary end points included the total number of non-sustained ventricular tachycardias, appropriate ICD therapies, changes in N-terminal pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) levels, and the number of heart failure hospitalizations.

RESULTS

Randomization was prematurely terminated, after class IA guideline recommendations were published for SGLT2is in patients with heart failure regardless of the ejection fraction. The final analysis included 46 patients (11% of the originally planned sample size). The yearly rate of the primary end point was 3.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.8 to 4.4) with ertugliflozin compared with 13.3 with placebo (95% CI 11.8 to 14.8; rate ratio 0.16, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.61; P<0.001). There were no apparent differences in appropriate ICD therapies, hospitalizations, NTproBNP levels, or predefined adverse and serious adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Ertugliflozin reduced sustained ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation events in adults with heart failure and an ICD compared with placebo; however, our trial ended early and thus results should be interpreted with caution. (Funded by Investigator-initiated Studies Program of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp and Pfizer; EudraCT number, 2020-002581-14; ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT04600921.).

Clinical Update in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the most recent clinical trials and data regarding epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction with an emphasis on the recent trends in cardiometabolic interventions.

RECENT FINDINGS

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction makes up approximately half of overall heart failure and is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and overall burden on the healthcare system. It is a complex, heterogenous syndrome and clinical trials, to this point, have not revealed quite as many effective treatment options when compared to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Nevertheless, there is an expanding amount of data insight into the pathogenesis of this disease and the potential for newer therapies and management strategies. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction pathology has been found to be linked to abnormal energetics, myocyte hypertrophy, cell signaling, inflammation, ischemia, and fibrosis. These mechanisms also intricately overlap with the significant comorbidities often associated with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction including, but not limited to, atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, obesity and coronary artery disease. Treatment of this disease, therefore, should focus on the management and strict regulation of these comorbidities by pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic means. In this review, a clinical update is provided reviewing the most recent clinical trials and data regarding epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction with an emphasis on the recent trend in cardiometabolic interventions.

Barriers to early diagnosis of chronic kidney disease and use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for renal protection: A comprehensive review and call to action

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 13% of people globally, including 20%-48% with type 2 diabetes (T2D), resulting in significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. There is an urgent need to increase early screening and intervention for CKD. We are experts in diabetology and nephrology in Central Europe and Israel. Herein, we review evidence supporting the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for kidney protection and discuss barriers to early CKD diagnosis and treatment, including in our respective countries. SGLT2 inhibitors exert cardiorenal protective effects, demonstrated in the renal outcomes trials (EMPA-KIDNEY, DAPA-CKD, CREDENCE) of empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and canagliflozin in patients with CKD. EMPA-KIDNEY demonstrated cardiorenal efficacy across the broadest renal range, regardless of T2D status. Renoprotective evidence also comes from large real-world studies. International guidelines recommend first-line SGLT2 inhibitors for patients with T2D and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥20 mL/min/1.73 m2, and that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists may also be administered if required for additional glucose control. Although these guidelines recommend at least annual eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio screening for patients with T2D, observational studies suggest that only half are screened. Diagnosis is hampered by asymptomatic early CKD and under-recognition among patients with T2D and clinicians, including limited knowledge/use of guidelines and resources. Based on our experience and on the literature, we recommend robust screening programmes, potentially with albuminuria self-testing, and SGLT2 inhibitor reimbursement at general practitioner (GP) and specialist levels. High-tech tools (artificial intelligence, smartphone apps, etc.) are providing exciting opportunities to identify high-risk individuals, self-screen, detect abnormalities in images, and assist with prescribing and treatment adherence. Better education is also needed, alongside provision of concise guidelines, enabling GPs to identify who would benefit from early initiation of renoprotective therapy; although, regardless of current renal function, cardiorenal protection is provided by SGLT2 inhibitor therapy.

Effects of empagliflozin on liver fat in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease without diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We investigated whether empagliflozin reduces hepatic steatosis in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease without diabetes mellitus.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

This was an investigator-initiated, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial recruiting adult subjects from the community. Eligible subjects without diabetes mellitus (fasting plasma glucose < 7 mmol/L and HbA1c < 6.5%) who had magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) ≥ 5% were randomly allocated to receive empagliflozin 10 mg daily or placebo (1:1 ratio) for 52 weeks (end of treatment, EOT). MRI-PDFF was conducted at baseline and EOT. The primary outcome was the difference in change of MRI-PDFF between the 2 groups at EOT. Secondary outcomes were hepatic steatosis resolution (MRI-PDFF < 5%), alanine aminotransferase drop ≥ 17 U/L, MRI-PDFF decline ≥ 30%, a combination of both, and changes of anthropometric and laboratory parameters at EOT. All outcomes were based on intention-to-treat analysis. Of 98 recruited subjects (median age: 55.7 y [IQR:49.5-63.4]; male:54 [55.1%]), 97 (empagliflozin:49, placebo:48; median MRI-PDFF:9.7% vs 9.0%) had MRI-PDFF repeated at EOT. The Empagliflozin group had a greater reduction in median MRI-PDFF compared to the placebo group (-2.49% vs. -1.43%; p = 0.025), with a nonsignificant trend of resolution of hepatic steatosis (44.9% vs. 28.6%; p = 0.094). There was no significant difference in alanine aminotransferase drop ≥ 17 U/L (16.3% vs. 12.2%; p = 0.564), MRI-PDFF drop ≥ 30% (49.0% vs. 40.8%; p = 0.417), and composite outcome (8.2% vs. 8.2%; p = 1.000). Empagliflozin group had a greater drop in body weight (-2.7 vs. -0.2 kg), waist circumference (-2.0 vs. 0 cm), fasting glucose (-0.3 vs. 0 mmol/L), and ferritin (-126 vs. -22 pmol/L) (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Empagliflozin for 52 weeks reduces hepatic fat content in subjects with nondiabetic metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04642261).

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on cancer has yet to be fully elucidated.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cancer.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases up to July 15, 2023, to identify eligible randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials that lasted at least ≥24 weeks. The primary outcome was the overall cancer incidence, and the secondary outcomes were the incidences of various types of cancer. We used the Mantel-Haenszel method, fixed effects model, risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) to analyze dichotomous variables. Subgroup analysis was performed based on the SGLT2 inhibitor type, baseline conditions, and follow-up duration. All meta-analyses were performed using RevMan5.4.1 and Stata MP 16.0.

RESULTS

A total of 58 publications (59 trials) were included, comprising 113,909 participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or chronic kidney disease and/or high cardiovascular risk and/or heart failure (SGLT2 inhibitor group, 63864; placebo group, 50045). Compared to the placebo SGLT2 inhibitors did not significantly increase the overall incidence of cancer (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.94-1.08; p = 0.82). However, ertugliflozin did significantly increase the overall incidence of cancer (RR 1.29; 95% CI 1.01-1.64; p = 0.04). SGLT2 inhibitors did not increase the risks of bladder or breast cancer. However, dapagliflozin did significantly reduce the risk of bladder cancer by 47% (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.35-0.81; p = 0.003). SGLT2 inhibitors had no significant effect on the risks of gastrointestinal, thyroid, skin, respiratory, prostate, uterine/endometrial, hepatic and pancreatic cancers. Dapagliflozin reduced the risk of respiratory cancer by 26% (RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.55-1.00; p = 0.05). SGLT2 inhibitors (particularly mediated by dapagliflozin and ertugliflozin but not statistically significant) were associated with a greater risk of renal cancer than the placebo (RR 1.39; 95% CI 1.04-1.87; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

SGLT2 inhibitors did not significantly increase the overall risk of cancer or the risks of bladder and breast cancers. However, the higher risk of renal cancer associated with SGLT2 inhibitors warrants concern.

An overview of the CANVAS Program and CREDENCE trial: The primary outcomes and key clinical implications for those managing patients with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

To provide an overview of the primary outcomes and key clinical implications of the CANVAS Program and CREDENCE trial, which were event-driven, double-blind randomized controlled trials that established the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin in those with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and high cardiovascular risk (CV) or albuminuric chronic kidney disease (CKD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

The CANVAS programme (CANVAS and CANVAS-R trials) randomized 10 142 people with T2D and high CV risk to canagliflozin or placebo and followed them for a median of 126 weeks. The primary efficacy outcome was met, with canagliflozin treatment associated with a 14% reduction in major adverse CV events (hazard ratio [HR] 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75 to 0.97; p < 0.001) as compared to placebo. The CREDENCE trial randomized 4401 individuals with T2D and albuminuric CKD to canagliflozin or placebo and followed them for 109 weeks. The CREDENCE trial also met its primary endpoint; canagliflozin treatment was associated with a 30% reduction in the composite of kidney failure, sustained doubling of serum creatinine level, or death from kidney or CV causes (HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.82; p < 0.001). Substantial reductions in hospitalization for heart failure (CANVAS: HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.87; CREDENCE: HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.80) and other key CV and kidney outcomes were also identified. Relative clinical benefits were consistent across subgroups defined by baseline age, sex, kidney function and history of CV disease but absolute benefits were greatest in those at highest baseline risk. Total serious adverse events were less common with canagliflozin treatment. Concerns about amputation and fracture risk observed in the CANVAS Program were not seen in CREDENCE and appear to have been spurious chance findings.

CONCLUSION

Canagliflozin reduced important CV, kidney and mortality outcomes in those with T2D and high CV risk or CKD across diverse patient groups, with a good safety profile. Taken together with the other sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor CV and renal outcomes trials, these landmark findings have changed the treatment landscape for patients worldwide.

Cost-effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy in Japan

AIM

To assess the cost-effectiveness of diabetic nephropathy treatment with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in Japanese clinical practice, considering diabetes-related complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A population-based Monte Carlo simulation was used to estimate the cost-effectiveness for people with diabetic nephropathy who initiated pharmacotherapy with an SGLT2 inhibitor plus conventional treatment or conventional treatment alone, based on quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and healthcare costs. The Canagliflozin and Renal Events in Diabetes with Established Nephropathy Clinical Evaluation study (CREDENCE) and the Japanese Society for Dialysis Research statistical survey were the primary sources of probability and mortality, while Japanese Health Insurance Claims Data were the cost source. The state transition model included diabetic nephropathy, hospitalization due to cardiovascular disease, dialysis, and death. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were used to explore model uncertainty.

RESULTS

Using the threshold of JPY 5 000 000 per QALY, SGLT2 inhibitor plus conventional treatment was more cost-effective than conventional treatment alone, with an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of JPY 654 309 per QALY. Treating 100 000 people, SGLT2 inhibitor plus conventional treatment prevented 2234 deaths and reduced 5793 fewer heart failure cases, 3967 fewer myocardial infarctions and stroke events. Sensitivity analysis affirmed the robustness of these results for patients aged under 70 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The SGLT2 inhibitor treatment appeared to be cost-effective for the overall population of our study and particularly for younger patients (<70 years old). For older patients (≥70 years old), the cost-effectiveness was less clear and may require further evaluation. Decision-makers should consider this age-based heterogeneity when making recommendations about SGLT2 inhibitor treatment.

Real-world data on Empagliflozin and Dapagliflozin use in patients with HEART failure: The RED-HEART study

AIMS

We aimed to determine the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and to identify clinical factors associated with their use in patients with heart failure (HF) in a real-life setting.

METHODS

Real-world data on Empagliflozin and Dapagliflozin use in patients with HEART failure: The RED-HEART study is a multicentre, cross-sectional and observational study that included HF patients in the outpatient setting regardless of ejection fraction from 19 cardiology centres between August 2023 and December 2023.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 1923 patients with HF, predominantly men (61.2%), with a median age of 66 (range: 19-101) years. Overall, 925 patients (48.1%) were receiving SGLT2is. Among the study population, 22.1% had HF with preserved ejection fraction, 21.5% had HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction, 56.4% had HF with reduced ejection fraction and the use of SGLT2is was 42.0%, 47.9% and 50.6% in each group, respectively (P = 0.012). The use of SGLT2is was 76.6% in patients with HF and diabetes, 19.8% in patients with HF and chronic kidney disease and 26.8% in patients without diabetes and chronic kidney disease (P < 0.001). Higher education level [odds ratio (OR): 1.80; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-3.05; P = 0.027], higher household income (OR: 3.46; 95% CI: 1.27-9.42; P = 0.015), New York Heart Association functional class IV (OR: 2.72; 95% CI: 1.16-6.35; P = 0.021), diabetes (OR: 9.42; 95% CI: 6.72-13.20; P < 0.001), the use of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNis) (OR: 4.09; 95% CI: 2.39-7.01; P < 0.001), the use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) (OR: 2.02; 95% CI: 1.49-2.75; P < 0.001), the use of loop diuretics (OR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.18-2.22; P = 0.003) and the use of thiazide diuretics (OR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.30-2.29; P < 0.001) were independently associated with the use of SGLT2is. Conversely, atrial fibrillation (OR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.45-0.88; P = 0.008), chronic kidney disease (OR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.37-0.76; P = 0.001), the use of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (OR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.48-0.98; P = 0.042) and the use of statins (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.49-0.91; P = 0.010) were independently associated with the non-use of SGLT2is.

CONCLUSIONS

The RED-HEART study provided comprehensive real-world data about implementing SGLT2is in patients with HF. These results suggest that there is a need for organized action and close collaboration between healthcare providers to improve the implementation of SGLT2is, especially in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction and chronic kidney disease.

Translating the 2021 ESC heart failure guideline recommendations in daily practice: Results from a heart failure survey. A scientific statement of the ESC Council for Cardiology Practice and the Heart Failure Association of the ESC

AIMS

Real-world data show that guidelines are insufficiently implemented, and particularly guideline-directed medical therapies (GDMT) are underused in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in clinical practice. The Council for Cardiology Practice and the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) developed a survey aiming to (i) evaluate the perspectives of the cardiology community on the 2021 ESC heart failure (HF) guidelines, (ii) pinpoint disparities in disease management, and (iii) propose strategies to enhance adherence to HF guidelines.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A 22-question survey regarding the diagnosis and treatment of HFrEF was delivered between March and June 2022. Of 457 physicians, 54% were general cardiologists, 19.4% were HF specialists, 18.9% other cardiac specialists, and 7.7% non-cardiac specialists. For diagnosis, 52.1% employed echocardiography and natriuretic peptides (NPs), 33.2% primarily used echocardiography, and 14.7% predominantly relied on NPs. The first drug class initiated in HFrEF was angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ACEi/ARNi) (91.2%), beta-blockers (BB) (73.8%), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) (53.4%), and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (48.1%). The combination ACEi/ARNi + MRA+ BB was preferred by 39.3% of physicians, ACEi/ARNi + SGLT2 inhibitors + BB by 33.3%, and ACEi/ARNi + BB by 22.2%. The time required to initiate and optimize GDMT was estimated to be <1 month by 8.3%, 1-3 months by 52%, 3-6 months by 31.8%, and >6 months by 7.9%. Compared to general cardiologists, HF specialists/academic cardiologists reported lower estimated time-to-initiation, and more commonly preferred a parallel initiation of GDMT rather than a sequential approach.

CONCLUSION

Participants generally followed diagnostic and treatment guidelines, but variations in HFrEF management across care settings or HF specialties were noted. The survey may raise awareness and promote standardized HF care.