Cardiovascular and kidney outcomes with finerenone in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease: the FIDELITY pooled analysis

Management of patients with hypertension and chronic kidney disease referred to Hypertension Excellence Centres among 27 countries. On behalf of the European Society of Hypertension Working Group on Hypertension and the Kidney

Objective Real-life management of patients with hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) among European Society of Hypertension Excellence Centres (ESH-ECs) is unclear : we aimed to investigate it. Methods A survey was conducted in 2023. The questionnaire contained 64 questions asking ESH-ECs representatives to estimate how patients with CKD are managed. Results Overall, 88 ESH-ECS representatives from 27 countries participated. According to the responders, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers, calcium-channel blockers and thiazides were often added when these medications were lacking in CKD patients, but physicians were more prone to initiate RAS blockers (90% [interquartile range: 70-95%]) than MRA (20% [10-30%]), SGLT2i (30% [20-50%]) or (GLP1-RA (10% [5-15%]). Despite treatment optimisation, 30% of responders indicated that hypertension remained uncontrolled (30% (15-40%) vs 18% [10%-25%]) in CKD and CKD patients, respectively). Hyperkalemia was the most frequent barrier to initiate RAS blockers, and dosage reduction was considered in 45% of responders when kalaemia was 5.5-5.9 mmol/L. Conclusions RAS blockers are initiated in most ESH-ECS in CKD patients, but MRA and SGLT2i initiations are less frequent. Hyperkalemia was the main barrier for initiation or adequate dosing of RAS blockade, and RAS blockers' dosage reduction was the usual management.

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.

Effectiveness and safety of finerenone in diabetic kidney disease patients: a real-world observational study from China

AIMS

Finerenone has been approved for treating diabetic kidney disease (DKD) with reducing cardiorenal risk. Real-world data on finerenone treatment for the management of DKD are presently lacking. This study aimed to investigate the effect of finerenone on the renal parameters of the Chinese DKD population in the real-world medical setting for the first time, especially in combination with renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i).

METHODS

Forty-two DKD patients were selected and completed a 6-month finerenone treatment. Renal parameters and adverse effects were collected at every visit.

RESULTS

The median urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was 1426.11 (755.42, 3638.23) mg/g. Among them, the proportion of patients with a UACR of 300-5000 mg/g was 76.2%, and the proportion of patients with a UACR of >5000 mg/g was 14.3%. The median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 54.50 (34.16, 81.73) mL/min/1.73 m2. Finerenone decreased the UACR significantly throughout the study period (p < .05). The maximal decline of UACR at month 6 was 73%. Moreover, the proportion of patients with a 30% or greater reduction in UACR was 68.42% in month 6. There was a smaller decline (9-11%) in the eGFR after initiating finerenone (p > .05). One patient each discontinued finerenone due to hyperkalemia (2.4%) and acute kidney injury (2.4%). No patient reported hypotension, breast pain, and gynecomastia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study from China first demonstrated finerenone decreased UACR with manageable safety in real-world DKD treatment. A triple regimen of RASi, SGLT2i, and finerenone may be a promising treatment strategy for lowering albuminuria and reducing hyperkalemia risk in advanced DKD patients.

Present and future of drug therapy in hypertension: an overview

Purpose: High blood pressure (HBP) is the leading cause of mortality and years of disability, and its prevalence is increasing. Therefore, diagnosis and effective treatment of HBP is one of the main goals to prevent and reduce its complications, and pharmacological treatment is the cornerstone of hypertension management.Materials and Methods: The gradual introduction of different drug families has led to the development of new molecules that have improved efficacy and reduced adverse effects. Results: Current drugs include a large number that target key mechanisms of blood pressure regulation as well as those that contribute to hypertension-induced organ damage. Recently, new antihypertensive drugs have been introduced that not only aim to lower blood pressure but also provide additional protection against organ damage and metabolic disorders. Some of them were introduced for specific indications other than hypertension and other are based in a pharmacogenomic approach. Other routes of administration, such subcutaneous injection, are also being explored to improve protection and compliance.Conclusions: The main characteristics of each class of antihypertensive drug are summarised.

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.

A review of novel endothelin antagonists and overview of non-steroidal mineralocorticoid antagonists for treating resistant hypertension: An update

Several agents are emerging from five different novel classes of antihypertensive medications. We will focus on endothelin antagonists and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. While several agents exist in this later class, only a couple have demonstrated superior efficacy in resistant hypertension management. Endothelin receptor antagonists are effective therapy for primary and resistant hypertension, but they are not widely used. This is due to side effects demonstrated in large clinical trials, specifically increased peripheral edema and worsening heart failure in some cases, as well as the availability of many alternative agents to manage blood pressure effectively. However, the relationship between endothelin and its close ties to hypertension is evolving. Recent pre-clinical work explores new applications of more selective endothelin receptor antagonists. They suggest that specific subtypes of hypertension may benefit more from endothelin receptor blockade than simply those with primary hypertension. We review this topic and other related data. Lastly, we also provide a brief overview of non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists as some in the class show promise as antihypertensive agents.

Effects of spironolactone on exercise blood pressure in patients at increased risk of developing heart failure: report from the HOMAGE trial

None of the spironolactone trials in heart failure (HF) assessed the blood pressure (BP) responses to exercise, while conflicting results were reported for exercise capacity. In the HOMAGE trial, 527 patients at increased HF risk were randomized to usual treatment with or without spironolactone (25-50 mg/day). The current substudy included 113 controls and 114 patients assigned spironolactone, who all completed the incremental shuttle walk test at baseline and months 1 and 9. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed by EQ5D questionnaire. Between-group differences (spironolactone minus control [Δs]) were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA with adjustment for baseline and, if appropriate, additionally for sex, age and body mass index. Δs in the pre-exercise systolic/diastolic BP were -8.00 mm Hg (95% CI, -11.6 to -4.43)/-0.85 mm Hg (-2.96 to 1.26) at month 1 and -9.58 mm Hg (-14.0 to -5.19)/-3.84 mm Hg (-6.22 to -1.47) at month 9. Δs in the post-exercise systolic/diastolic BP were -8.08 mm Hg (-14.2 to -2.01)/-2.07 mm Hg (-5.79 to 1.65) and -13.3 mm Hg (-19.9 to -6.75)/-4.62 mm Hg (-8.07 to -1.17), respectively. For completed shuttles, Δs at months 1 and 9 were 2.15 (-0.10 to 4.40) and 2.49 (-0.79 to 5.67), respectively. Δs in QoL were not significant. The correlations between the exercise-induced BP increases and the number of completed shuttles were similar in both groups. In conclusion, in patients at increased risk of developing HF, spironolactone reduced the pre- and post-exercise BP, but did not improve exercise capacity or QoL.

Acteoside delays the fibrosis process of diabetic nephropathy by anti-oxidation and regulating the autophagy-lysosome pathway

Renal fibrosis is the final pathological change of kidney disease, it has also been recognized to be critical for the final progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) to kidney failure. Acteoside (ACT) is a phenylethanoid glycoside widely distributed in dicotyledonous plants. It has many pharmacological activities, such as anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, anti-cancer, neuroprotection, cardiovascular protection, anti-diabetes, bone and cartilage protection, liver and kidney protection, and antibacterial activity. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of ACT on renal interstitial fibrosis in rats with DN induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozocin (STZ) combined with unilateral nephrectomy and its mechanism. In vivo and in vitro, the effects of ACT on reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative tubular injury, as well as damage of autophagic flux and lysosome in the DN model were detected. Results indicate that administration of ACT delayed the progression of renal interstitial fibrosis in DN by anti-oxidation and regulating the autophagy-lysosome pathway, which may potentially be attributed to the regulatory influence of ACT on transcription factor EB (TFEB).

Finerenone and left ventricular hypertrophy in chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes

AIMS

Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease and linked to increased morbidity and mortality. In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), hypertension is common, and patients with these co-morbidities additionally have a high prevalence of LVH. This analysis of the prespecified pooled FIDELITY analysis comprising the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD phase III studies aimed to explore the CV and kidney effects of finerenone, a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, in patients with CKD and T2D stratified by a diagnosis of LVH at baseline.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A diagnosis of LVH in the FIDELITY patient population was determined at baseline using investigator-reported electrocardiogram (ECG) findings. The two efficacy outcomes, assessed by baseline LVH, were the composite CV outcome of time to CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), and a composite kidney outcome of time to onset of kidney failure, a sustained decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥57% from baseline over ≥4 weeks, or kidney-related death. Safety outcomes by baseline LVH were reported as treatment-emergent adverse events. At baseline out of 13 026 patients in FIDELITY, 96.5% had hypertension and 9.6% had investigator-reported LVH. The relative risk reduction for the composite CV and kidney outcomes with finerenone versus placebo was lower in the LVH subgroup; however, the treatment effect of finerenone was not modified by baseline LVH for either outcome (Pinteraction = 0.1075 for composite CV outcome and Pinteraction = 0.1782 for composite kidney outcome). Analysis of the composite CV outcome components showed a greater reduction in the risk of HHF versus placebo for patients with baseline LVH compared with those without (Pinteraction = 0.0024). Overall safety events were comparable between the LVH subgroups and treatment arms. Treatment-emergent hyperkalaemia was observed more frequently with finerenone versus placebo, but discontinuation rates were low in both treatment arms and between LVH subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the overall CV and kidney benefits of finerenone versus placebo were not modified by the presence of LVH at baseline, with overall safety findings being similar between LVH subgroups. A greater benefit was observed for HHF in patients with versus without LVH, suggesting that LVH may be a predictor of the treatment effect of finerenone on HHF.

Summary of Research: Cardiovascular and Kidney Outcomes with Finerenone in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease-The FIDELITY Pooled Analysis

People living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk of CKD progression and kidney failure. This is a summary of the FIDELITY pooled analysis where two clinical trials (FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD) were performed to investigate the safety and efficacy of finerenone in people with T2D and CKD. The data from these two studies were combined and analyzed and it was found that those who took finerenone on top of standard-of-care medicine had a 14% reduced risk of having a cardiovascular event and 23% reduced risk of having a kidney event versus those who took placebo. Those who took finerenone were also more likely to have high blood potassium, but this was mostly manageable.A graphical abstract and translations of all content (Chinese, Japanese, German, Spanish, Brazilian-Portuguese, French) are available for this article.

The impact of population ageing on the burden of chronic kidney disease

The burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its risk factors are projected to rise in parallel with the rapidly ageing global population. By 2050, the prevalence of CKD category G3-G5 may exceed 10% in some regions, resulting in substantial health and economic burdens that will disproportionately affect lower-income countries. The extent to which the CKD epidemic can be mitigated depends largely on the uptake of prevention efforts to address modifiable risk factors, the implementation of cost-effective screening programmes for early detection of CKD in high-risk individuals and widespread access and affordability of new-generation kidney-protective drugs to prevent the development and delay the progression of CKD. Older patients require a multidisciplinary integrated approach to manage their multimorbidity, polypharmacy, high rates of adverse outcomes, mental health, fatigue and other age-related symptoms. In those who progress to kidney failure, comprehensive conservative management should be offered as a viable option during the shared decision-making process to collaboratively determine a treatment approach that respects the values and wishes of the patient. Interventions that maintain or improve quality of life, including pain management and palliative care services when appropriate, should also be made available.

Comparative Efficacy of Finerenone versus Canagliflozin in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Type 2 Diabetes: A Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison

This study aimed to close an evidence gap concerning the relative efficacy of finerenone versus SGLT2is in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Canagliflozin was selected as a proxy for the SGLT2i class. Patient-level data of two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of finerenone (FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD) were used alongside aggregated data from CREDENCE, an RCT of canagliflozin. To account for meaningful between-study heterogeneity between each finerenone trial and CREDENCE, a matching-adjusted indirect comparison of a range of efficacy outcomes was undertaken for each finerenone study versus CREDENCE. These results were meta-analyzed, enabling the estimation of the relative effects of finerenone against canagliflozin. For the cardiorenal composite endpoint, the hazard ratio (HR) comparing finerenone to canagliflozin was 1.07 (95% CI: 0.83 to 1.36). The corresponding HRs for all-cause mortality, end-stage kidney disease and cardiovascular death were 0.99 (95% CI: 0.73 to 1.34), 1.03 (95% CI: 0.68 to 1.55) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.64 to 1.37), respectively. The absence of statistically significant differences was consistent throughout the main analysis and a range of sensitivity analyses. Based on this study, using a large sample of data and adjusted for meaningful differences between the baseline characteristics of the included RCTs, there was no statistically significant evidence indicating a difference in the efficacy of finerenone compared to canagliflozin in the treatment of CKD in patients with T2D.

Design and rationale of the CLEAR SYNERGY (OASIS 9) trial: A 2x2 factorial randomized controlled trial of colchicine versus placebo and spironolactone vs placebo in patients with myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Patients experiencing myocardial infarction (MI) remain at high risk of future major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). While low-dose colchicine and spironolactone have been shown to decrease post-MI MACE, more data are required to confirm their safety and efficacy in an unselected post-MI population. Therefore, we initiated the CLEAR SYNERGY (OASIS 9) trial to address these uncertainties.

METHODS

The CLEAR SYNERGY trial is a 2 × 2 factorial randomized controlled trial of low-dose colchicine 0.5 mg daily versus placebo and spironolactone 25 mg daily versus placebo in 7,062 post-MI participants who were within 72 hours of the index percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We blinded participants, healthcare providers, research personnel, and outcome adjudicators to treatment allocation. The primary outcome for colchicine is the first occurrence of the composite of cardiovascular death, recurrent MI, stroke, or unplanned ischemia-driven revascularization. The coprimary outcomes for spironolactone are (1) the composite of the total numbers of cardiovascular death or new or worsening heart failure and (2) the first occurrence of the composite of cardiovascular death, new or worsening heart failure, recurrent MI or stroke. We finished recruitment with 7,062 participants from 104 centers in 14 countries on November 8, 2022, and plan to present the results in the fall of 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

CLEAR SYNERGY is a large international randomized controlled trial that will inform the effects of low-dose colchicine and spironolactone in largely unselected post-MI patients who undergo PCI. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03048825).

Mineralocorticoid Antagonism in Heart Failure: Established and Emerging Therapeutic Role

The pathophysiology of heart failure (HF) is related to the overactivation of the mineralocorticoid receptor, leading to fluid retention and adverse myocardial remodeling. Although mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are recommended for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), they remain underused due to adverse effects such as hyperkalemia; and their efficacy is controversial in heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Recent trials in people with diabetes and kidney disease have supported the use of nonsteroidal MRAs in reducing HF-related morbidity and mortality and have fewer side effects than their steroidal counterparts. The efficacy and safety of nonsteroidal MRAs have not been tested in HF and are currently being evaluated in additional clinical trials. This review comprehensively examines the current data regarding MRAs for HF and the future direction of nonsteroidal MRA research while exploring the causes of MRA underutilization.

Mind the gap in kidney care: translating what we know into what we do

Historically, it takes an average of 17 years to move new treatments from clinical evidence to daily practice. Given the highly effective treatments now available to prevent or delay kidney disease onset and progression, this is far too long. The time is now to narrow the gap between what we know and what we do. Clear guidelines exist for the prevention and management of common risk factors for kidney disease, such as hypertension and diabetes, but only a fraction of people with these conditions worldwide are diagnosed, and even fewer are treated to target. Similarly, the vast majority of people living with kidney disease are unaware of their condition, because in the early stages, it is often silent. Even among patients who have been diagnosed, many do not receive appropriate treatment for kidney disease. Considering the serious consequences of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, or death, it is imperative that treatments are initiated early and appropriately. Opportunities to diagnose and treat kidney disease early must be maximized beginning at the primary care level. Many systematic barriers exist, ranging from patient to clinician to health systems to societal factors. To preserve and improve kidney health for everyone everywhere, each of these barriers must be acknowledged so that sustainable solutions are developed and implemented without further delay.

Clinical Properties and Non-Clinical Testing of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists in In Vitro Cell Models

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are one of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors widely used in clinical practice. While spironolactone and eplerenone have a long-standing profile in clinical medicine, finerenone is a novel agent within the MRA class. It has a higher specificity for mineralocorticoid receptors, eliciting less pronounced adverse effects. Although approved for clinical use in patients with chronic kidney disease and heart failure, intensive non-clinical research aims to further elucidate its mechanism of action, including dose-related selectivity. Within the field, animal models remain the gold standard for non-clinical testing of drug pharmacological and toxicological properties. Their role, however, has been challenged by recent advances in in vitro models, mainly through sophisticated analytical tools and developments in data analysis. Currently, in vitro models are gaining momentum as possible platforms for advanced pharmacological and pathophysiological studies. This article focuses on past, current, and possibly future in vitro cell models research with clinically relevant MRAs.

Kidney and Cardiovascular Effectiveness of SGLT2 Inhibitors vs GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Emerging data suggest that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) improve kidney outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Direct comparisons of the kidney and cardiovascular effectiveness of GLP-1 RA with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), a first-line therapy for this population, are needed.

OBJECTIVES

The authors compared kidney and cardiovascular outcomes for new users of SGLT2i and GLP-1 RAs with T2D.

METHODS

Using propensity score overlap weighting, we analyzed electronic health record data from 20 U.S. health systems contributing to PCORnet between 2015 and 2020. The primary kidney outcome was a composite of sustained 40% estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline, incident end-stage kidney disease, or all-cause mortality over 2 years or until censoring. In addition, we examined cardiovascular and safety outcomes.

RESULTS

The weighted study cohort included 35,004 SGLT2i and 47,268 GLP-1 RA initiators. Over a median of 1.2 years, the primary outcome did not differ between treatments (HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.81-1.02), although SGLT2i were associated with a lower risk of 40% eGFR decline (HR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.65-0.91). Risks of mortality (HR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.92-1.27), a composite of stroke, myocardial infarction, or death (HR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.93-1.14), and heart failure hospitalization (HR: 0.95; 95% CI: 0.80-1.13) did not differ. Genital mycotic infections were more common for SGLT2i initiators, but other safety outcomes did not differ. The results were similar regardless of chronic kidney disease status.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2i and GLP-1 RAs led to similar kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in people with T2D, though SGLT2i initiation was associated with a lower risk of 40% eGFR decline. (Evaluating Comparative Effectiveness of Empagliflozin in Type 2 Diabetes Population With and Without Chronic Kidney Disease; NCT05465317).

Finerenone and diabetic renal disease: a narrative review

Overactivation of mineralocorticoid receptors occurs in cardiorenal diseases. Many patients with type 2 diabetes often progress to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and require dialysis. Finerenone is the first oral non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist used in patients with diabetic kidney disease and heart failure. Finerenone (also known as Kerendia) is more potent than spironolactone in reducing the progression of CKD and exerts its effect equally on the heart and kidneys, improving cardiovascular outcomes. Research demonstrates that finerenone improves proteinuria and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) if taken alone or in combination with sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). Finerenone has been found to decrease mortality in patients with diabetic renal disease and improve quality of life. Its side effects, unlike those of spironolactone, do not include gynecomastia. However, it can result in hyperkalemia, which needs to be monitored. In this narrative review, we aim to investigate the mechanisms of action of finerenone and its implications in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Cardio-reno-vascular protection in type 2 diabetes mellitus: new insights into pharmacotherapeutic management

INTRODUCTION

From 2008 and following the withdrawal of rosiglitazone, obligatory cardiovascular outcomes trials are performed for glucose lowering drugs introduced to the market to ensure their cardiovascular (CV) safety. Paradoxically, these studies have demonstrated CV safety but also shown additional cardio-reno-vascular protection of some therapeutic agents. Additionally, nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (ns-MRA) have emerged as novel drugs for cardio - and renoprotection in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In addition to atherosclerotic CV disease, heart failure (HF) and CKD are important clinical problems in T2D leading to poor quality of life and premature death as such cardio-reno-vascular protection is an important clinical issue.

AREAS COVERED

We provide new insights into pharmacotherapeutic cardio-reno-vascular protection in T2D based on the new glucose lowering drugs and ns-MRA. PUB MED/CINAHL/Web of Science/Scopus were searched (May 2024).

EXPERT OPINION

The conventional glucose lowering approach alone which was implemented for decades is now replaced by the use of disease modifying drugs which lower the rates of CV events, HF decompensation, hospitalization due to HF, slow progression of CKD and all-cause mortality. Indeed, the choice of medications in T2D should be focused on underlying co-morbidities with cardio-reno-vascular protection rather than a gluco-centric approach.

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic overlap in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and response to sacubitril/valsartan in PARAGON-HF

AIMS

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) multimorbidity is prevalent among individuals with heart failure (HF), but whether cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment response to sacubitril/valsartan vary in relation to CKM status is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this PARAGON-HF post-hoc analysis, we evaluated the impact of CKM multimorbidity (atherosclerotic cardiovascular [CV] disease, chronic kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes) on cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan. The primary outcome was a composite of total HF hospitalizations and CV death. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome and a composite kidney outcome (sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction of ≥50%, end-stage kidney disease, or kidney-related death). At baseline, 35.2% had one CKM condition, 33.3% had two, 15.9% had three, and only 15.6% had HF alone. CKM multimorbidity was associated with higher septal and posterior wall thickness, lower global longitudinal strain, higher E/e', and worse right ventricular function. Total HF hospitalizations or CV death increased with greater CKM multimorbidity, with the highest relative risk observed with three CKM conditions (rate ratio 3.06, 95% confidence interval 2.33-4.03), compared with HF alone. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of the number of CKM conditions for the primary endpoint (pinteraction = 0.75), CV death (pinteraction = 0.82), total HF hospitalizations (pinteraction = 0.67), and the composite kidney endpoint (pinteraction = 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic multimorbidity was common in PARAGON-HF and associated with adverse changes in cardiac structure and function and with a stepwise increase in risk of clinical outcomes. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of CKM burden.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01920711.

Heart failure: the grim reaper of the cardio-renal-metabolic triad

AIMS

Current understanding of the prognosis for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and overlapping cardio-renal-metabolic components, specifically heart failure (HF) and diabetes mellitus (DM), remains limited. While previous studies have explored the interactions between CKD, HF, and DM, they have predominantly focused on cohorts of HF or DM patients. This study aims to fill this gap by investigating the long-term outcomes and treatment patterns in a cohort of CKD patients, particularly those with coexisting HF and DM.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analysed data from the Swedish national CKD patient cohort, the Swedish Renal Registry, with a follow-up period extending up to 10 years. The study examined the risks of all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)-defined as a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, hospitalization for congestive HF, non-fatal stroke, or cardiovascular death-and the initiation of kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Analyses were conducted using Cox proportional hazards and competing risk models. Among the 27 647 patients, 48% had CKD alone, 12% had CKD with HF, 27% had CKD with DM, and 13% had CKD with both HF and DM. After 5 years, mortality rates were 23% for patients with CKD, 30% for those with CKD/DM, 54% for CKD/HF, and 55% for CKD/HF/DM. The 10 year absolute risk of MACE was 28% for CKD alone, 35% for CKD/DM, 67% for CKD/HF, and 73% for CKD/HF/DM. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for mortality was approximately three times higher in patients with any HF combination, with HRs of 2.57 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.43-2.71] for CKD/HF and 3.22 (95% CI 3.05-3.39) for CKD/HF/DM, compared with CKD alone. The impact of HF on MACE prognosis was even more pronounced, with adjusted sub-hazard ratios (SHRs) of 3.33 (95% CI 3.14-3.53) for CKD/HF and 4.26 (95% CI 4.04-4.50) for CKD/HF/DM. Additionally, CKD patients diagnosed with HF were less likely to commence KRT, and the risk of death prior to KRT initiation was roughly twice as high for these groups, with SHRs of 2.05 (95% CI 1.93-2.18) for CKD + HF and 2.43 (95% CI 2.29-2.58) for CKD + HF + DM.

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of CKD patients, having HF contributes substantially to increased mortality and the risk of MACE, and these patients are less likely to start KRT. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted therapeutic strategies and management plans for CKD patients, particularly those with concurrent HF, to enhance patient prognosis.

Epidemiology and risk factors for hyperkalaemia in heart failure

Patients with heart failure (HF), particularly those with impaired renal function receiving renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis), are at risk of hyperkalaemia; when hyperkalaemia is severe, this can have serious clinical consequences. The incidence, prevalence, and risk factors for hyperkalaemia reported in randomized trials of RAASis may not reflect clinical practice due to exclusion of patients with elevated serum potassium (sK+) or severe renal impairment: information on patients managed in routine clinical care is important to understanding the actual burden of hyperkalaemia. This paper reviews the available clinical epidemiology data on hyperkalaemia in HF and considers areas requiring further research. Observational studies published since 2017 that focused on hyperkalaemia, included patients with HF, and had ≥1000 participants were considered. Hyperkalaemia occurrence in HF varied widely from 7% to 39% depending on the setting, HF severity, follow-up length, and concomitant medications. Rates were lowest in patients with newly diagnosed HF and highest in patients with greater disease severity; comorbidities, such as chronic kidney disease and diabetes, and RAASi use, reflected commonly identified risk factors for hyperkalaemia in patients with HF. Hyperkalaemia was most often mild; however, from the limited data available, persistence of mild hyperkalaemia was associated with an increased risk of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. There were also limited data available on the progression of hyperkalaemia. Recurrence was common, occurring in one-quarter to two-fifths of hyperkalaemia cases. Despite HF guidelines recommending close monitoring of sK+, 55-93% of patients did not receive appropriate testing before or after initiation of RAASi or in follow-up to moderate/severe hyperkalaemia detection. Many of the observational studies were retrospective and from a single country. There is a need for international, prospective, longitudinal, observational studies, such as the CARE-HK in HF study (NCT04864795), to understand hyperkalaemia's prevalence, incidence, and severity; to identify and characterize cases that persist, progress, and recur; to highlight the importance of sK+ monitoring when using RAASi; and to assess the impact of newer HF therapies and potassium binders in clinical practice. Data from both clinical trials and observational studies with adjustments for confounding variables will be needed to assess the contribution of hyperkalaemia to clinical outcomes.

Kidney and cardiovascular-protective benefits of combination drug therapies in chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes

Given the substantial burden of chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes, an aggressive approach to treatment is required. Despite the benefits of guideline-directed therapy, there remains a high residual risk of continuing progression of chronic kidney disease and of cardiovascular events. Historically, a linear approach to pharmacologic management of chronic kidney disease has been used, in which drugs are added, then adjusted, optimized, or stopped in a stepwise manner based on their efficacy, toxicity, effects on a patient's quality of life, and cost. However, there are disadvantages to this approach, which may result in missing a window of opportunity to slow chronic kidney disease progression. Instead, a pillar approach has been proposed to enable earlier treatment that simultaneously targets multiple pathways involved in disease progression. Combination therapy in patients with chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes is being investigated in several clinical trials. In this article, we discuss current treatment options for patients with chronic kidney disease associated with type 2 diabetes and provide a rationale for tailored combinations of therapies with complementary mechanisms of action to optimize therapy using a pillar-based treatment strategy. [This article includes a plain language summary as an additional file].

The relationship between serum 1,5-anhydroglucitol and adverse outcomes in acute coronary syndrome with and without chronic kidney disease patients

Purpose

Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) face an elevated residual risk of cardiovascular events, but the relationship between this residual risk and 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) is uncertain. Our study aimed to examine the effect of 1,5-AG on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and all-cause mortality in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) individuals.

Methods

1253 ACS participants hospitalized were enrolled at Beijing Hospital between March 2017 and March 2020. All participants were classified into 2 groups based on their eGFR (60 ml/min/1.73 m2). The link between 1,5-AG and adverse outcome was investigated in non-CKD and CKD participants.

Results

CKD patients had reduced concentrations of 1,5-AG than those without CKD. Throughout a median follow-up duration of 43 months, 1,5-AG was an autonomous hazard factor for MACEs and all-cause mortality. 1,5-AG<14 μg/ml participants had greater MACEs and all-cause mortality risk than those with 1,5-AG≥14 μg/ml, regardless of renal function. Furthermore, concomitant reduced concentrations of 1,5-AG and CKD portended a dismal prognosis in ACS patients.

Conclusions

1,5-AG was autonomously linked to MACEs and all-cause mortality in ACS participants with both non-CKD and CKD. Co-presence of reduced concentrations of 1,5-AG and CKD may portend adverse clinical outcomes.

Clinical trial designs of emerging therapies for diabetic kidney disease (DKD)

Current evidence for medical therapies for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is largely based on large-scale clinical trials. These trials, however, often exhibit heterogeneity in participant characteristics and baseline kidney function. These differences may lead to misinterpretation in clinical practice, such that treatment effects from different trials are directly compared and generalized to broader populations beyond the population in which each trial was conducted. This is particularly relevant if comparisons on efficacy and safety are made when the underlying study populations are distinctly different. Indeed, key clinical trials evaluating sodium-glucose transport protein-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (nsMRA), and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) differed in recruitment requirements (inclusion/exclusion criteria), resulting in differences in the severity of the underlying kidney disease as well as risk factor profiles. Moreover, these trials defined their primary and secondary outcomes differently. Collectively, these factors lead to distinct study populations with different baseline risks for DKD progression in the placebo arm in each clinical trial. Consequently, a direct head-to-head comparison of the treatment effect between treatments using relative risk measures from placebo-controlled clinical trials alone is not recommended. In addition, healthcare professionals should be equipped to understand the specific target population of clinical trials to avoid over-generalization when drawing conclusions from these trials.

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.

Diabetes and Heart Failure: A Literature Review, Reflection and Outlook

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome caused by structural or functional dysfunction of the ventricular filling or blood supply. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an independent predictor of mortality for HF. The increase in prevalence, co-morbidity and hospitalization rates of both DM and HF has further fueled the possibility of overlapping disease pathology between the two. For decades, antidiabetic drugs that are known to definitively increase the risk of HF are the thiazolidinediones (TZDs) and saxagliptin in the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and insulin, which causes sodium and water retention, and whether metformin is effective or safe for HF is not clear. Notably, sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and partial glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) all achieved positive results for HF endpoints, with SGLT2 inhibitors in particular significantly reducing the composite endpoint of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for heart failure (HHF). Further understanding of the mutual pathophysiological mechanisms between HF and DM may facilitate the detection of novel therapeutic targets to improve the clinical outcome. This review focuses on the association between HF and DM, emphasizing the efficacy and safety of antidiabetic drugs and HF treatment. In addition, recent therapeutic advances in HF and the important mechanisms by which SGLT2 inhibitors/mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA)/vericiguat contribute to the benefits of HF are summarized.

Management of diabetes in people with advanced chronic kidney disease

Diabetes is the commonest cause of end stage kidney disease globally, accounting for almost 40% of new cases requiring renal replacement therapy. Management of diabetes in people with advanced kidney disease on renal replacement therapy is challenging due to some unique aspects of assessment and treatment in this group of patients. Standard glycaemic assessment using glycated haemoglobin may not be valid in such patients due to altered red blood cell turnover or iron/erythropoietin deficiency, leading to changed red blood cell longevity. Therefore, use of continuous glucose monitoring may be beneficial to enable more focussed glycaemic assessment and improved adjustment of therapy. People with advanced kidney disease may be at higher risk of hypoglycaemia due to a number of physiological mechanisms, and in addition, therapeutic options are limited in such patients due to lack of experience or license. Insulin therapy is the basis of treatment of people with diabetes with advanced kidney disease due to many other drugs classes being contraindicated. Targets for glycaemic control should be adjusted according to co-morbidity and frailty, and continuous glucose monitoring should be used in people on dialysis to ensure low risk of hypoglycaemia. Post-transplant diabetes is common amongst people undergoing solid organ transplantation and confers a greater risk of mortality and morbidity in kidney transplant recipients. It should be actively screened for and managed in the post-transplant setting.

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.

Effectiveness and safety of finerenone in Chinese CKD patients without diabetes: a retrospective, real-world study

BACKGROUND

Finerenone, a non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, has previously demonstrated its efficacy and safety in chronic kidney disease (CKD) associated with diabetes mellitus. Given its therapeutic potential, finerenone has been preliminarily explored in clinical practice for non-diabetic CKD patients. The effectiveness and safety in this population require further investigation in a real-world setting.

METHODS

This retrospective, real-world analysis included non-diabetic CKD patients receiving finerenone. The main clinical outcomes assessed were changes in urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Serum potassium (sK+) levels were also monitored. Data were collected at baseline, and then at 1 month and 3 months following treatment initiation.

RESULTS

Totally, 16 patients were included. There was a notable decrease in UACR from 1-month post-treatment, with a further reduction at 3 months, resulting in a median reduction of 200.41 mg/g (IQR, 84.04-1057.10 mg/g; P = 0.028; percent change, 44.52% [IQR, 31.79-65.42%]). The average eGFR at baseline was 80.16 ml/min/1.73m2, with no significant change after 1 month (80.72 ml/min/1.73m2, P = 0.594) and a slight numerical increase to 83.45 ml/min/1.73m2 (P = 0.484) after 3 months. During the 3-month follow-up, sK+ levels showed only minor fluctuations, with no significant differences compared to baseline, and remained within the normal range throughout the treatment period. No treatment discontinuation or hospitalization due to hyperkalemia was observed.

CONCLUSION

In non-diabetic CKD patients, finerenone showed good effectiveness and safety within a 3-month follow-up period. This study provides valuable real-world evidence supporting the use of finerenone in non-diabetic CKD and highlights the need for future large-scale prospective research to further validate its efficacy.

Mind the gap in kidney care: translating what we know into what we do

Historically, it takes an average of 17 years for new treatments to move from clinical evidence to daily practice. Given the highly effective treatments now available to prevent or delay kidney disease onset and progression, this is far too long. Now is the time to narrow the gap between what we know and what we do. Clear guidelines exist for the prevention and management of common risk factors for kidney disease, such as hypertension and diabetes, but only a fraction of people with these conditions are diagnosed worldwide, and even fewer are treated to target. Similarly, the vast majority of people living with kidney disease are unaware of their condition, because it is often silent in the early stages. Even among patients who have been diagnosed, many do not receive appropriate treatment for kidney disease. Considering the serious consequences of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, or death, it is imperative that treatments are initiated early and appropriately. Opportunities to diagnose and treat kidney disease early must be maximized beginning at the primary care level. Many systematic barriers exist, ranging from the patient to the clinician to the health systems to societal factors. To preserve and improve kidney health for everyone everywhere, each of these barriers must be acknowledged so that sustainable solutions are developed and implemented without further delay.

Finerenone: Who should prescribe it for CKD? The physician associate's perspective

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) affects 30-40% of all patients with diabetes and contributes significantly to the cardiovascular burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite the availability of evidence-based medications like finerenone and simple screening tests such as Urinary Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR), more resources are still needed to care for DKD patients. Physician Associates (PAs) play a crucial role in the multidisciplinary team responsible for DKD diagnosis, monitoring, and management. A nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, namely finerenone, was approved by the FDA in adults with CKD associated with type 2 diabetes to reduce the risk of renal and cardiovascular outcomes. Finerenone is considered among the pillars of care for DKD, furthermore, the addition of finerenone in combination with renin-angiotensin system inhibitors and/or other renal protective medications may offer additional benefits. Primary care providers prescribe finerenone less frequently than specialized care providers, indicating a need to empower physician associates in medication prescription and other renal protection strategies. As part of a multidisciplinary team, physician associates can play an important role in evaluating risk factors that contribute to heart disease and metabolic health. They can also monitor not only kidney function by ordering tests, such as serum creatinine and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio every 3-12 months, but also serum potassium levels. Additionally, physician associates can encourage patients to take responsibility for their health by regularly monitoring their blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and body weight. With early detection and management, kidney failure and cardiovascular events may be preventable. Specialized physician associates also play a significant role in the comprehensive care of DKD patients, especially in the later stages. DKD care can be hindered by numerous factors such as lack of patient engagement during counseling, cost disparities, and a complex referral system that requires multidisciplinary guidelines to improve professional communication. It is necessary to re-envision the physician associates' role in primary care and empower them in goal-directed therapies.

Combination therapy for kidney disease in people with diabetes mellitus

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), defined as co-existing diabetes and chronic kidney disease in the absence of other clear causes of kidney injury, occurs in approximately 20-40% of patients with diabetes mellitus. As the global prevalence of diabetes has increased, DKD has become highly prevalent and a leading cause of kidney failure, accelerated cardiovascular disease, premature mortality and global health care expenditure. Multiple pathophysiological mechanisms contribute to DKD, and single lifestyle or pharmacological interventions have shown limited efficacy at preserving kidney function. For nearly two decades, renin-angiotensin system inhibitors were the only available kidney-protective drugs. However, several new drug classes, including sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, a non-steroidal mineralocorticoid antagonist and a selective endothelin receptor antagonist, have now been demonstrated to improve kidney outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition, emerging preclinical and clinical evidence of the kidney-protective effects of glucagon-like-peptide-1 receptor agonists has led to the prospective testing of these agents for DKD. Research and clinical efforts are geared towards using therapies with potentially complementary efficacy in combination to safely halt kidney disease progression. As more kidney-protective drugs become available, the outlook for people living with DKD should improve in the next few decades.

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of 32 randomized trials

INTRODUCTION

Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) in heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). This systematic review and network meta-analysis (NMA) evaluated the comparative efficacy and safety of MRAs in HFrEF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MEDLINE(Pubmed), Scopus, Cochrane and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched until April 8, 2024 for RCTs examining the efficacy and/or safety of MRAs in HFrEF. Double-independent study selection, extraction and quality assessment were performed. Random-effects frequentist NMA models were used. Evidence certainty was assessed via Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

RESULTS

Totally, 32 RCTs (15685 patients) were analyzed. Eplerenone ranked above spironolactone in all-cause mortality (hazard ratio {HR}=0.78, 95% confidence interval {CI} [0.66,0.91], GRADE:"Moderate"), cardiovascular death (HR=0.74, 95%CI [0.53, 1.04], GRADE:"Low") and in all safety outcomes. Spironolactone was superior to eplerenone in the composite of cardiovascular death or hospitalization (HR=0.67, 95%CI [0.50,0.89], GRADE:"Moderate"), HF hospitalization (HR=0.61, 95%CI [0.43,0.86], GRADE:"Moderate"), all-cause hospitalization (HR=0.51, 95%CI [0.26,0.98], GRADE:"Moderate") and cardiovascular hospitalization (HR=0.56, 95%CI [0.37,0.84], GRADE:"Moderate"). Canrenone ranked first in all-cause mortality, the composite outcome and HF hospitalization. Finerenone ranked first in hyperkalemia (risk ratio [RR]=1.56, 95%CI [0.89,2.74], GRADE:"Moderate"), renal injury (RR=0.56, 95%CI [0.24,1.29]), any adverse event (RR=0.84, 95%CI [0.75,0.94], GRADE:"Moderate"), treatment discontinuation (RR=0.89, 95%CI [0.64,1.23]) and hypotension (RR=1.06, 95%CI [0.12,9.41]).

CONCLUSIONS

MRAs are effective in HFrEF with certain safety disparities. Spironolactone and eplerenone exhibited similar efficacy, however, eplerenone demonstrated superior safety. Finerenone was the safest MRA, while canrenone exhibited considerable efficacy, nonetheless, evidence for these MRAs were scarce.

Diagnosis and management of resistant hypertension

Resistant hypertension is defined as blood pressure that remains above the therapeutic goal despite concurrent use of at least three antihypertensive agents of different classes, including a diuretic, with all agents administered at maximum or maximally tolerated doses. Resistant hypertension is also diagnosed if blood pressure control requires four or more antihypertensive drugs. Assessment requires the exclusion of apparent treatment resistant hypertension, which is most often the result of non-adherence to treatment. Resistant hypertension is associated with major cardiovascular events in the short and long term, including heart failure, ischemic heart disease, stroke, and renal failure. Guidelines from several professional organizations recommend lifestyle modification and antihypertensive drugs. Medications typically include an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker, a calcium channel blocker, and a long acting thiazide-type/like diuretic; if a fourth drug is needed, evidence supports addition of a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. After a long pause since 2007 when the last antihypertensive class was approved, several novel agents are now under active development. Some of these may provide potent blood pressure lowering in broad groups of patients, such as aldosterone synthase inhibitors and dual endothelin receptor antagonists, whereas others may provide benefit by allowing treatment of resistant hypertension in special populations, such as non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in patients with chronic kidney disease. Several device based approaches have been tested, with renal denervation being the best supported and only approved interventional device treatment for resistant hypertension.

New Perspectives in Management of Cardiovascular Risk Among People With Diabetes

Following the publication of results from multiple landmark cardiovascular outcome trials of antihyperglycemic medications over the past 8 years, there has been a major shift in the focus of care for people with type 2 diabetes, from control of hyperglycemia to managing cardiovascular risk. Multiple international cardiology and diabetes society guidelines and recommendations now endorse sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like protein-1 receptor agonists as first-line therapies to mitigate cardiovascular risk. The most recent publication is the 2023 European Society of Cardiology guideline on the management of cardiovascular disease in those with type 2 diabetes that, for the first time, recommends use of both classes of medications for the mitigation of cardiovascular risk for those with or at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. Here, we review the evidence behind contemporary society guidelines and recommendations for the management of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk.

Hypertension and Heart Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment

Hypertension represents one of the primary and most common risk factors leading to the development of heart failure (HF) across the entire spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction. A large body of evidence has demonstrated that adequate blood pressure (BP) control can reduce cardiovascular events, including the development of HF. Although the pathophysiological and epidemiological role of hypertension in the development of HF is well and largely known, some critical issues still deserve to be clarified, including BP targets, particularly in HF patients. Indeed, the management of hypertension in HF relies on the extrapolation of findings from high-risk hypertensive patients in the general population and not from specifically designed studies in HF populations. In patients with hypertension and HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), it is recommended to combine drugs with documented outcome benefits and BP-lowering effects. In patients with HF with preserved EF (HFpEF), a therapeutic strategy with all major antihypertensive drug classes is recommended. Besides commonly used antihypertensive drugs, different evidence suggests that other drugs recommended in HF for the beneficial effect on cardiovascular outcomes exert advantageous blood pressure-lowering actions. In this regard, type 2 sodium glucose transporter inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been shown to induce BP-lowering actions that favorably affect cardiac afterload, ventricular arterial coupling, cardiac efficiency, and cardiac reverse remodeling. More recently, it has been demonstrated that finerenone, a non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, reduces new-onset HF and improves other HF outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes, irrespective of a history of HF. Other proposed agents, such as endothelin receptor antagonists, have provided contrasting results in the management of hypertension and HF. A novel, promising strategy could be represented by small interfering RNA, whose actions are under investigation in ongoing clinical trials.

The significance of finerenone as a novel therapeutic option in diabetic kidney disease: a scoping review with emphasis on cardiorenal outcomes of the finerenone phase 3 trials

This scoping review prepared by endocrinology and nephrology experts aimed to address the significance of finerenone, as a novel therapeutic option, in diabetic kidney disease (DKD), based on the biological prospect of cardiorenal benefit due to non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) properties, and the recent evidence from the finerenone phase 3 program clinical trials. The importance of finerenone in slowing DKD progression was critically reviewed in relation to the role of MR overactivation in the pathogenesis of cardiorenal disease and unmet needs in the current practice patterns. The efficacy and safety outcomes of finerenone phase III study program including FIDELIO-DKD, FIGARO-DKD and FIDELITY were presented. Specifically, perspectives on inclusion of patients with preserved estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or high albuminuria, concomitant use of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) or glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level and insulin treatment, clinically meaningful heart failure outcomes and treatment-induced hyperkalemia were addressed. Finerenone has emerged as a new therapeutic agent that slows DKD progression, reduces albuminuria and risk of cardiovascular complications, regardless of the baseline HbA1c levels and concomitant treatments (SGLT2i, GLP-1 RA, or insulin) and with a favorable benefit-risk profile. The evolving data on the benefit of SGLT2is and non-steroidal MRAs in slowing or reducing cardiorenal risk seem to provide the opportunity to use these pillars of therapy in the management of DKD, after a long-period of treatment scarcity in this field. Along with recognition of the albuminuria as a powerful marker to detect those patients at high risk of cardiorenal disease, these important developments would likely to impact standard-of-care options in the setting of DKD.

New therapeutic targets in hypertension

Even though a large number of antihypertensive drugs are suitable for hypertension treatment, some new therapeutic targets are recently under development. Most are focused in the treatment of resistant hypertension, added to the drugs currently available for treating such condition. Others have specific particularities in their duration of action, which allows their use once per month or every six months and could become alternatives to the current antihypertensive treatment. Most interesting therapeutic targets are the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, through interference with the RNA of the angiotensinogen, the inhibition of brain aminopeptidase III, the inhibition of aldosterone synthase, and new non-steroidal aldosterone receptor antagonists. In addition, dual endothelin receptor antagonists or agonists of the NPR1 receptor, the main effector of natriuretic peptides are other new interesting therapeutic possibilities. In this paper, we review clinical data on the development of the most interesting molecules acting through these new therapeutic targets.