Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin add-on therapy to insulin in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial

Use of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter Inhibitors in Type 1 Diabetes: The Promise and the Perils

OBJECTIVE

Despite improvements in glucose monitoring technologies, insulin formulations and insulin delivery systems, too many patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) continue to struggle to meet their glycemic goals. As a result, they suffer from high rates of microvascular and macrovascular disease. Titration of insulin therapy, while essential to the care of these patients, is often limited by undesirable side effects of hypoglycemia and weight gain. Sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) inhibitors have been proposed as a potential adjunctive therapy to insulin that may offset some of these effects, while simultaneously enabling patients with T1D to potentially reap the cardiovascular and renal benefits afforded by these agents in those with type 2 diabetes. This review summarizes and contextualizes the clinical trial data that has emerged with these agents in this specific population.

METHODS

A clinical review based on current literature was generated by the authors.

RESULTS

This review summarizes the data from several clinical trial programs investigating the use of SGLT inhibitors in T1D, describing the potential benefits and the ketosis-related adverse events of these agents (including euglycemic DKA), along with a discussion of possible mitigation strategies to reduce this risk.

CONCLUSION

Although theoretically SGLT inhibitors have the potential to improve metabolic, cardiovascular, and renal outcomes in patients with T1D, the risks of diabetic ketoacidosis currently represent an important limitation to the widespread use of these agents. If treatment is undertaken, caution must be taken, with implementation of effective mitigation strategies being essential.

The Effect of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter Inhibitors on Renal Function as Adjunctive to Insulin in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes: An Updated Multilevel Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review aimed to summarize the existing evidence from published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the impact of sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) inhibitors on albuminuria levels and renal function in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D).

METHODS

The literature search was performed through Medline (via PubMed), Cochrane Library, and Scopus until November 11, 2023. Double-independent study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment were performed. Evidence was pooled with three-level mixed-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 5221 participants with T1D among 11 RCTs were analyzed. All RCTs had low risk of bias according to the Cochrane Collaboration tool (RoB 2). SGLT inhibitors were associated with a significantly greater reduction in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) compared to controls (MD = - 23.13%; 95% CI = [- 33.69, - 12.57]; P < 0.001; level of evidence high). On the basis of subgroup analysis, this effect was consistent across all available SGLT inhibitors, irrespective of the dosage. Finally, a neutral class effect was observed on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, MD = - 1.03 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI = [- 2.26, 0.19]; P = 0.1; level of evidence moderate). Only empagliflozin was associated with a significant reduction in eGFR compared to placebo (MD = - 2.23 mL/min/1.73 m2; 95% CI = [- 3.62, - 0.84]; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that adjunctive therapy with SGLT inhibitors results in a significant reduction in albuminuria, while their use is associated with a neutral effect on creatinine clearance, as a measure of renal function. Future renal outcome trials are needed to assess SGLT inhibitors' role in the pharmacological armamentarium against diabetic nephropathy in T1D.

Sodium glucose cotransporter2 inhibitors for type 1 diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

Sodium glucose cotransporter2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are controversial in the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study is a systematic evaluation of the safety of SGLT2 inhibitors usage in T1DM.

METHODS

Comprehensive literature search in six databases from inception to September 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of T1DM treated with SGLT2 inhibitor vs. placebo were included. Data were extracted from the literature that met the inclusion criteria. After quality evaluation by the Cochrane risk bias assessment tool, meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.4 and Stata 17.1.

RESULTS

The study consisted of 16 RCTs with 7192 patients. The results indicated that SGLT2inhibitors reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c, Mean difference (MD)- 0.29%, P < 0.05), fasting plasma glucose (FPG, MD-0.85 mmol/L, P < 0.05), mean amplitude of glucose excursions (MAGE, 15.75 mg/dL, P < 0.05), body weight (MD-3.49 kg, P < 0.05), and total insulin dosage (MD-7.14 IU/day, P < 0.05). Furthermore, cautious SGLT2 inhibitors did not induce the risk of hypoglycemia (RR1.00, P = 0.86), urinary tract infections (RR1.02, P = 0.085), and diarrhea (RR1.34, P = 0.523).

CONCLUSION

Based on this meta-analysis, SGLT22 inhibitors reduce insulin dosage without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis for type 1 diabetes mellitus in 1month.

SGLT2 Inhibitors in the Management of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D): An Update on Current Evidence and Recommendations

SGLT2i (sodium glucose transporter type 2 inhibitors) are pharmacological agents that act by inhibiting the SGLT2, by reducing the renal plasma glucose threshold and inducing glycosuria, resulting in a blood glucose lowering effect. In recent years, studies demonstrating some additional positive effects of SGLT2i also in the treatment of T1D have increased progressively. The SGLT2i dapagliflozin and sotagliflozin have been temporarily licensed for use by the European Medical Agency (EMA) as an adjunct to insulin therapy in adults with T1D with a body mass index of 27 kg/m2 or higher. However, in the meantime, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee was divided, citing concerns about the main side effects of SGLT2i, especially diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The aim of this manuscript was to conduct an update on current evidence and recommendations of the reported use of SGLT2i in the treatment of T1D in humans. Preclinical studies, clinical trial and real world data suggest benefits in glycaemia control and nefro-cardiovascular protection, even though several studies have documented an important increase in the risk of DKA, a serious and life-threatening adverse event of these agents. SGLT2i potentially addresses some of the unmet needs associated with T1D by improving glycaemic control with weight loss and without increasing hypoglycemia, by reducing glycaemic variability. However, due to side effects, EMA recommendation for SGLT2 use on T1D was withdrawn. Further studies will be needed to determine the safety of this therapy in T1D and to define the type of patient who can benefit most from these medications.

Overlapping risk factors for diabetic ketoacidosis in patients with type 1 diabetes on ipragliflozin: case analysis of spontaneous reports in Japan from a pharmacovigilance safety database

BACKGROUND

In patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D), sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Ipragliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor approved in Japan in combination with insulin for patients with T1D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Spontaneous safety reports of ipragliflozin adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients with T1D were collected during early post-marketing phase vigilance (EPPV; 21 December 2018-20 June 2019). For patients with T1D prescribed ipragliflozin who experienced DKA, we examined DKA event data registered in the manufacturer's safety database (21 December 2018-31 December 2021), including patient background characteristics.

RESULTS

During EPPV, there were 189 total events (45 serious) of ADRs, including 32 serious events of ketoacidosis. From 2018 to 2021, the major DKA risk factors were sick days, stopping or inappropriately decreasing insulin, insulin pump trouble, and low carbohydrate diet, with substantial overlap among these factors.

CONCLUSIONS

In Japanese patients with T1D using ipragliflozin, DKA events were linked to several overlapping factors, including sick days and reduced dose/interruption of insulin, whether intentional or unexpected. These results highlight the need for improved patient education regarding ipragliflozin use and appropriate self-management of ketosis from an early stage.

Treatment-duration-wise harm profile of insulin-sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitor co-treatment in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients

Background

The treatment duration of insulin-sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors (SGLTis) co-treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) varies by 1-52 weeks. Henceforth, treatment duration-wise, we compared the following insulin-treatment adjuncts- mega- versus low-dose SGLTis, SGLTis versus placebo, and different SGLTi dosages.

Method

Double-blinded RCTs reporting the above were searched (using terms like insulin-dependent, "juvenile-onset diabetes," and "sodium glucose cotransport*") in the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases and appraised using a Cochrane tool. The risks across different SGLTi-dosages were compared using network meta-analysis. Random-effect pairwise meta-analysis was performed for the remaining harm juxtapositions. Meta-analyses were performed for the following treatment durations- < 4 weeks, 4 to < 24 weeks, and ≥ 24 weeks. For meta-analysis and certainty of evidence assessment, we used the Stata statistical software and the GRADE method, respectively.

Results

A total of 15 (low risks of bias) studies sourcing data from about 7,330 T1DM patients were reviewed. Meta-analysis findings of ≥ 24 weeks long trials were- a. SGLTi-insulin co-treatment increased the genital infection (GI) (RR: 3.51; 95% CI: 2.59, 4.77), diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and (RR: 3.25; 95% CI:1.29, 8.16), and serious side effects (RR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.94) risk. b. SGLT2i-insulin increased the GI risk (RR: 3.77; 95% CI: 2.31, 6.16; high-quality evidence). c. Sotagliflozin-insulin increased the GI (RR: 3.36; 95% CI: 2.28, 4.96) and DKA (RR: 6.69; 95% CI: 2.75, 16.32) risk (both high-quality evidence). Compared to low-dose, megadose SGLTi treatment for 4 to < 24 weeks increased the GI risk. The remaining analyses were not statistically significantly different.

Conclusion

On moderate to long-term treatment (24-52 weeks) of T1DM patients, insulin-SGLT2i co-treatment was associated with GI risk, and insulin-sotagliflozin co-treatment was associated with DKA and GI risk.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01192-7.

Efficacy and safety of SGLT2 inhibitors in individuals with type 1 diabetes under continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion: a real-world study

Objective. Adjuvant therapy with sodium-glucose cotransport 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in type 1 diabetes (T1D) is associated with an improvement in glycemic control, but increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). However, real-life studies in individuals with T1D under continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) are still scarce. We present the first real-life study performed in patients with T1D exclusively treated with CSII. The aim of the present study was to assess the metabolic impact and safety of SGLT2i in T1D individuals under CSII. Methods. Retrospective study includes 34 T1D adult individuals under CSII, who started SGLT2i until 30th June 2021. Data regarding the glycemic control and acute diabetes complications at the moment of introduction of SGLT2i and after 3, 6, and 12 months of use were collected. Results. Twenty-three individuals were included. Comparing with the moment of SGLT2i introduction after 3, 6, and 12 months of use, there was a statistically significant increase of time in range (TIR) (∆T3M=12.8%; ∆T6M=11.5%; ∆T12M=11.1%), and a decrease in time above range (∆T3M=13.6%; ∆T6M=11.9%; ∆T12M=10.5%). There were no significant differences in time below the range. Mean glucose and mean glucose management indicator significantly reduced in the 3 evaluated moments. A significant reduction in median weight was also observed (∆T6M=2 kg; ∆T12M=4.5 kg). Two patients (8.7%) developed mild euglycemic DKA during SGLT2i treatment, both were women and had body mass index (BMI) <27 kg/m2. One of them had a total daily insulin dose (TDDI) reduction of 26.9% after 3 months of use. Conclusions. The use of SGLT2i, as an adjuvant treatment in T1D individuals under CSII, was associated with a significant increase of TIR without increasing time in hypoglycemia. It also had a weight benefit. Careful use in selected participants is necessary to reduce the occurrence of DKA.

Recent developments in adjunct therapies for type 1 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

There have been many recent advances in the treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D) including in insulin formulations, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology and automated insulin delivery. However, long-term optimal glycemic control is still only achieved in a minority.

AREAS COVERED

Adjunct therapy - the use of therapeutic agents other than insulin - is one strategy aimed at improving outcomes. An ideal adjunct agent would improve glycemic control, reduce weight (or weight gain), reduce insulin requirement and prevent complications (e.g. cardiorenal) without increasing hypoglycemia. The amylin analogue pramlintide has been licensed in the USA, while the sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) dapagliflozin, was briefly (2019 - 2021) licensed for type 1 diabetes in Europe and the UK. However, other agents from the type 2 diabetes (T2D) arena including metformin, other SGLT2is, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) and dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-4) inhibitors have been investigated.

EXPERT OPINION

As evidence emerges for cardiorenal protection by SGLT2is and GLP-1RAs in T2D, it has become increasingly important to know whether people with T1D can also benefit. Here, we review recent trials of adjunct agents in T1D and discuss the efficacy and safety of these agents (alone and in combination) in an era in which continuous glucose monitoring is becoming standard of care.

Safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in Asian type 2 diabetes populations

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus continues to increase in many Asian countries, with possible contributing factors, such as younger-onset disease, diabetes development at lower body mass index, higher visceral fat accumulation and poorer β-cell function, among Asian populations. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors have been shown to confer favorable effects in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, such as improved glycemic control, weight and blood pressure reduction, and importantly, cardiorenal benefits. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors are generally well-tolerated, and have a well-defined safety profile based on evidence from numerous clinical trials and post-marketing pharmacovigilance reporting. To our knowledge, this review is the first to provide a comprehensive coverage of the adverse events of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, as well as their management and counseling aspects for Asian type 2 diabetes mellitus populations.

Carbohydrate-based drugs launched during 2000-2021

Carbohydrates are fundamental molecules involved in nearly all aspects of lives, such as being involved in formating the genetic and energy materials, supporting the structure of organisms, constituting invasion and host defense systems, and forming antibiotics secondary metabolites. The naturally occurring carbohydrates and their derivatives have been extensively studied as therapeutic agents for the treatment of various diseases. During 2000 to 2021, totally 54 carbohydrate-based drugs which contain carbohydrate moities as the major structural units have been approved as drugs or diagnostic agents. Here we provide a comprehensive review on the chemical structures, activities, and clinical trial results of these carbohydrate-based drugs, which are categorized by their indications into antiviral drugs, antibacterial/antiparasitic drugs, anticancer drugs, antidiabetics drugs, cardiovascular drugs, nervous system drugs, and other agents.

Adult-onset autoimmune diabetes

Adult-onset autoimmune (AOA) diabetes pathophysiology starts with immune changes, followed by dysglycaemia and overt disease. AOA diabetes can occur as classic type 1 diabetes when associated with severe loss of insulin secretion. More frequently, it is diagnosed as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults, a slowly progressing form with late onset, a long period not requiring insulin, and it is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes. As its clinical presentation varies remarkably and immune markers often lack specificity, it is challenging to classify each case ad hoc, especially when insulin treatment is not required at diagnosis. Proper care of AOA diabetes aims to prevent complications and to improve quality of life and life expectancy. To achieve these goals, attention should be paid to lifestyle factors, with the aid of pharmacological therapies properly tailored to each individual clinical setting. Given the heterogeneity of the disease, choosing the right therapy for AOA diabetes is challenging. Most of the trials testing disease-modifying therapies for autoimmune diabetes are conducted in people with childhood onset, whereas non-insulin diabetes therapies have mostly been studied in the larger population with type 2 diabetes. More randomized controlled trials of therapeutic agents in AOA diabetes are needed.

Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus initiating sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in Japan: A real-world administrative database analysis

AIMS

To investigate the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) newly treated with a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) as an add-on to insulin, or treated with insulin alone or in combination with oral anti-diabetic drugs other than an SGLT2i.

METHODS

Retrospective study using data from the JMDC database (December 21, 2018, to October 31, 2020). Included patients with T1DM treated with an SGLT2i (add-on to insulin) (n = 1027) or with insulin (n = 4320). Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were summarized, and change in insulin dose and efficacy outcomes, including hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and body mass index (BMI), before and after the first SGLT2i or insulin prescription were evaluated.

RESULTS

The SGLT2i add-on group had higher HbA1c and BMI than the insulin group. Daily insulin doses decreased from immediately before to after the first SGLT2i prescription. HbA1c and BMI improved from baseline to after the first SGLT2i prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

This large real-world study reported the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with T1DM newly treated with an SGLT2i in Japan. The findings may guide the appropriate use of SGLT2i and support large-scale database studies in T1DM research.

Glucose-Lowering Therapy beyond Insulin in Type 1 Diabetes: A Narrative Review on Existing Evidence from Randomized Controlled Trials and Clinical Perspective

Background: In Type 1 diabetes (T1D), according to the most recent guidelines, the everyday glucose-lowering treatment is still restricted to the use of subcutaneous insulin, while multiple therapeutic options exist for Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: For this narrative review we unsystematically screened PubMed and Embase to identify clinical trials which investigated glucose-lowering agents as an adjunct to insulin treatment in people with T1D. Published studies up to March 2022 were included. We discuss the safety and efficacy in modifying cardiovascular risk factors for each drug, the current status of research, and provide a clinical perspective. Results: For several adjunct agents, in T1D, the scientific evidence demonstrates improvements in HbA1c, reductions in the risk of hypoglycemia, and achievements of lower insulin requirements, as well as positive effects on cardiovascular risk factors, such as blood lipids, blood pressure, and weight. As the prevalence of obesity, the major driver for double diabetes, is rising, weight and cardiovascular risk factor management is becoming increasingly important in people with T1D. Conclusions: Adjunct glucose-lowering agents, intended to be used in T2D, bear the potential to beneficially impact on cardiovascular risk factors when investigated in the T1D population and are suggested to be more extensively considered as potentially disease-modifying drugs in the future and should be investigated for hard cardiovascular endpoints.

Do the benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors exceed the risks in patients with type 1 diabetes?

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are well-established means of improving glycemia and preventing cardio-renal events in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, their efficacy and safety have yet to be fully characterized in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We studied patients with T1D who regularly attended one of five diabetes centers and treated with an SGLT2i (ipragliflozin or dapagliflozin) for >52 weeks, and the changes in HbA1c, body mass, insulin dose, and laboratory data were retrospectively evaluated and adverse events (AEs) recorded during December 2018 to April 2021. A total of 216 patients with T1D were enrolled during the period. Of these, 42 were excluded owing to short treatment periods and 15 discontinued their SGLT2i. The mean changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass, and insulin dose were -0.4%, -2.1 kg, and -9.0%, respectively. The change in HbA1c was closely associated with the baseline HbA1c (p < 0.001), but not with the baseline body mass or renal function. The basal and bolus insulin doses decreased by 18.2% and 12.6%, respectively, in participants with a baseline HbA1c <8%. The most frequent AE was genital infection (2.8%), followed by diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA; 1.4%). None of the participants experienced severe hypoglycemic events. In conclusion, the administration of an SGLT2i in addition to intensive insulin treatment in patients with T1D improves glycemic control and body mass, without increasing the incidence of hypoglycemia or DKA.

Empagliflozin add-on therapy to closed-loop insulin delivery in type 1 diabetes: a 2 × 2 factorial randomized crossover trial

There is a need to optimize closed-loop automated insulin delivery in type 1 diabetes. We assessed the glycemic efficacy and safety of empagliflozin 25 mg d^-1 as add-on therapy to insulin delivery with a closed-loop system. We performed a 2 × 2 factorial randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover two-center trial in adults, assessing 4 weeks of closed-loop delivery versus sensor-augmented pump (SAP) therapy and empagliflozin versus placebo. The primary outcome was time spent in the glucose target range (3.9-10.0 mmol l^-1). Primary comparisons were empagliflozin versus placebo in each of closed-loop or SAP therapy; the remaining comparisons were conditional on its significance. Twenty-four of 27 randomized participants were included in the final analysis. Compared to placebo, empagliflozin improved time in target range with closed-loop therapy by 7.2% and in SAP therapy by 11.4%. Closed-loop therapy plus empagliflozin improved time in target range compared to SAP therapy plus empagliflozin by 6.1% but by 17.5% for the combination of closed-loop therapy and empagliflozin compared to SAP therapy plus placebo. While no diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia occurred during any intervention, uncomplicated ketosis events were more common on empagliflozin. Empagliflozin 25 mg d^-1 added to automated insulin delivery improves glycemic control but increases ketone concentration and ketosis compared to placebo.

Efficacy and safety of adding ipragliflozin to insulin in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a retrospective study

Advances in insulin preparations and administration methods have produced a gradual improvement in glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM). Nevertheless, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in patients with type 1 DM are still poor compared to those in patients with type 2 DM. Here, we sought to assess the efficacy and safety of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor ipragliflozin (IPRA) in patients with type 1 DM. This study was retrospectively conducted with data from type 1 DM patients who had a history of IPRA therapy. The primary endpoint was HbA1c level at 24 weeks. The baseline characteristics of a total of 12 subjects were as follows: age, 50.1 ± 13.2 years; diabetes duration, 17.3 ± 10.5 years; body mass index (BMI), 22.9 ± 2.1 kg/m²; HbA1c, 8.8 ± 1.3%; and daily insulin dose, 0.60 ± 0.21 units/kg. IPRA decreased HbA1c levels to 8.2 ± 1.2% (p < 0.05) and reduced insulin dose to 0.52 ± 0.17 units/kg (p < 0.01) after 24 weeks. HbA1c value was particularly reduced in subjects with preserved C-peptide index. IPRA significantly reduced body weight by -1.4 ± 1.4 kg (p < 0.01) 16 weeks after starting treatment, with no further weight loss after 24 weeks. There were no instances of diabetic ketoacidosis or severe hypoglycemia. IPRA exerted beneficial effects on glycemic control without any severe adverse effects, and should be safe and effective when used in patients with type 1 DM with understanding of correspondence in sick day.

Obesity in people living with type 1 diabetes

Although type 1 diabetes is traditionally considered a disease of lean people, overweight and obesity are becoming increasingly more common in individuals with type 1 diabetes. Non-physiological insulin replacement that causes peripheral hyperinsulinaemia, insulin profiles that do not match basal and mealtime insulin needs, defensive snacking to avoid hypoglycaemia, or a combination of these, are believed to affect body composition and drive excessive accumulation of body fat in people with type 1 diabetes. The consequences of overweight or obesity in people with type 1 diabetes are of particular concern, as they increase the risk of both diabetes-related and obesity-related complications, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, and various types of cancer. In this Review, we summarise the current understanding of the aetiology and consequences of excessive bodyweight in people with type 1 diabetes and highlight the need to optimise future prevention and treatment strategies in this population.

Novel strategies for glycaemic control and preventing diabetic complications applying the clustering-based classification of adult-onset diabetes mellitus: A perspective

Diabetes mellitus results from an interplay between insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. Since their relative contributions to its pathogenesis are difficult to quantify, therapeutic strategies for glycaemic control are determined primarily based on two limited metrics: plasma glucose and haemoglobin A1c. Recent attempts have been made to subclassify diabetes mellitus to better predict its associated pathology and plan appropriate therapeutic strategies. These classifications are based on data-driven cluster analysis using autoimmunity, age, obesity (metabolically unhealthy and healthy phenotypes), insulin secretory capacity and resistance, and ethnicity. This review addresses potential therapeutic strategies for the cluster-based classifications of adult-onset diabetes mellitus to achieve better glycaemic control and prevent or at least delay the concomitant complications.

On-label use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors might increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis in patients with type 1 diabetes

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to investigate the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in insulin-treated type 1 diabetes patients administered sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in real-world clinical practice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We carried out a real-world, retrospective, observational cohort study using Japanese Medical Data Vision, a diagnosis procedure combination database. We identified insulin-treated adult type 1 diabetes patients enrolled from December 2018 to October 2019. We assessed the incidence and risk of DKA in type 1 diabetes patients using SGLT2 inhibitors in an 'on-label' manner. Cox multivariate regression analyses were carried out to determine clinical factors linked to SGLT2 inhibitor-associated DKA.

RESULTS

Of 11,475 type 1 diabetes patients, 1,898 (16.5%) were prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors. DKA occurred in 139 (7.3%) of these patients, with 20.2 incidences per 100 person-years. These patients also showed significantly higher DKA rates than did those not receiving SGLT2 inhibitors (hazard ratio 1.66, 95% confidence interval 1.33-2.06; P < 0.001). The mean time until DKA onset in SGLT2 inhibitor-treated type 1 diabetes patients was 30.6 ± 30.1 days. The risk of SGLT2 inhibitor-associated DKA increased in type 1 diabetes patients irrespective of sex, age or body mass index. However, the risk did not increase in type 1 diabetes patients receiving continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, which warrants further investigation because of the small number of type 1 diabetes patients receiving continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

'On-label' SGLT2 inhibitor use might increase DKA risk among insulin-treated type 1 diabetes patients irrespective of sex, age or body mass index. Both type 1 diabetes patients and healthcare providers should be wary of DKA, especially during the first month of initiating SGLT2 inhibitors.

Sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for the treatment of type 1 diabetes: what are the latest developments?

Despite the improvements in insulin therapy, many patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) do not achieve glycemic targets. Hypoglycemia and weight gain are important barriers in reaching these targets. Sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors lack these side effects and have an insulin-independent mechanism of action. Therefore, they might be useful in patients with T1DM. The authors discuss the safety and efficacy of SGLT2 inhibitors in T1DM. Several randomized controlled trials have evaluated dapagliflozin, sotagliflozin and empagliflozin in this population whereas fewer data are available for other members of this class. In these studies, SGLT2 inhibitors reduced HbA_1c levels and body weight without a greater risk of hypoglycemia. However, a higher incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) was observed in patients treated with these agents. SGLT2 inhibitors improve glycemic control in patients with T1DM but this effect is modest. Even though weight loss and the neutral effect on the incidence of hypoglycemia are advantages of these agents, the increased risk of DKA is a cause of concern. Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors should be used with caution and only in carefully selected patients with T1DM who are motivated, adherent to treatment, well-trained in recognizing DKA and are closely followed-up.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors as an add-on therapy to insulin for type 1 diabetes mellitus: Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

The aim was to systematically review the efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitor (SGLT2i) as an adjunct to insulin at different follow-up durations in randomized, double-blind clinical trials in patients with type 1 diabetes.

METHODS

We conducted a search on Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published before May 2020. According to the duration of follow-up, the subgroup analysis included four periods: 1-4, 12-18, 24-26, and 52 weeks. In the five trials included both 24-26 and 52 weeks of follow-up, we compared the efficacy by the placebo-subtracted difference and changes in SGLT2i groups.

RESULTS

Fifteen trials including 7109 participants were analyzed. The combination of SGLT2i and insulin improved hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), daily insulin dose, body weight, and blood pressure, which varied greatly by different follow-ups. Compared with %HbA1c at 24-26 weeks, placebo-subtracted differences and changes in the SGLT2i groups slightly increased. SGLT2i plus insulin treatment showed no difference in the occurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), hypoglycemia, or severe hypoglycemia but increased the risk of genital tract infections (GTIs) in a duration-dependent manner. SGLT2i treatment was associated with a significantly higher rate of ketone-related SAEs and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at 52 weeks.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2i as an add-on therapy to insulin improved glycemic control and body weight and decreased the required dose of insulin without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. However, after 6 months the benefits of SGLT2is on glycemic control may weaken and the risks of GTIs and DKA increased.

Sodium-Glucose Transporter Inhibition in Adult and Pediatric Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Adjunctive therapies to insulin for treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) have gained popularity in efforts to achieve glycemic targets, and sodium-glucose transporter (SGLT) inhibitors are an appealing option due to associated weight loss, low risk of hypoglycemia, and improved cardiorenal outcomes seen in persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), including euglycemic DKA, has led many to be wary of their use in T1D, especially given limited pediatric data and data regarding cardiorenal protection in this population. The phase 3 trials of these agents in T1D have yielded lower HbA1c, decreased total daily insulin dose, and small but significant weight loss with no increase in hypoglycemia. These trials also reported increased risks of genital mycotic infection and DKA. SGLT inhibitors have been approved as adjunctive therapy to insulin in adults with T1D in Europe and Japan, but the United States Food and Drug Administration has rejected similar applications. Although approaches to mitigate the risk of DKA have been developed, no randomized trials using such tools have been conducted. More research is needed to minimize the risk of DKA and to better evaluate the cardiorenal impact of these agents in persons with T1D.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors as add-on therapy in addition to insulin for type 1 diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Several clinical trials reported the effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) inhibitors in type 1 diabetes patients. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of SGLT inhibitors in type 1 diabetes patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant studies were identified in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wan Fang databases through 1 April 2020. Differences were expressed as the 95% confidence interval (CI) or weighted mean difference (WMD) for continuous outcomes, and risk ratio (RR) for discontinuous outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 13 RCTs with 7,962 cases were included. SGLT inhibitors reduced the fasting plasma glucose level (WMD -1.320 mmol/L, 95% CI -1.609 to -1.031, P < 0.001), glycated hemoglobin level (WMD -0.386%, 95% CI -0.431 to -0.342, P < 0.001) and daily total insulin dose (WMD -5.403, 95% CI -7.218 to -3.859, P < 0.001). However, higher risks of diabetic ketoacidosis (RR 5.042, 95% CI 3.160-8.046, P < 0.001), urinary tract infections (RR 1.259, 95% CI 1.034-1.533,P = 0.022) and genital infections (RR 2.995, 95% CI 1.953-4.594, P < 0.001) were associated with SGLT inhibitors, but SGLT inhibitors did not increase the hypoglycemia risk (RR 0.980, 95% CI 0.840-1.144,P = 0.799). In subgroup analysis, with a significant reduction of fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin and daily insulin doses, SGLT1/2 inhibitor did not increase genitourinary tract infections compared with a placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 and SGLT1/2 inhibitors can improve glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Glucose-lowering effects of 7-day treatment with SGLT2 inhibitor confirmed by intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring in outpatients with type 1 diabetes. A pilot study

The present study used intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) in 10 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 7-day outpatient treatment with the combination of intensive insulin therapy and sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2-I). All participants wore isCGM and were treated with either 50 mg/day ipragliflozin or 5 mg/day dapagliflozin. The primary outcome, percent time with glucose at 70-180 mg/dL (TIR: time in range), improved significantly following the addition of SGLT2-I (p = 0.005). TIR increased from 36.0% before addition of SGLT2-I to 70.7% on day 7. Although none of the patients achieved TIR of 70% or higher before the addition of SGLT2-I, 6 patients met that criteria TIR on day 7. The secondary outcome measures, standard deviation (SD) of glucose, average plasma glucose, percent time with glucose at >180 mg/dL (TAR: time above range), maximum plasma glucose, high blood glucose index (HBGI) and average nocturnal plasma glucose (midnight to 05:59 AM) detected by isCGM, also improved significantly by SGLT2-I. There were no significant differences in percent time with glucose at <70 mg/dL (TBR: time below range), minimum plasma glucose and low blood glucose index (LBGI). Our results using isCGM in an actual clinical setting showed that 7-day use of SGLT2-I with intensive insulin therapy improved plasma glucose fluctuations and mean plasma glucose levels without inducing hypoglycemia in patients with T1DM.

Assessing Patient Satisfaction Following Sodium Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitor Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Prospective Study in Japan

INTRODUCTION

In Japan, several sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been used for type 1 diabetes mellitus as an adjuvant therapy to insulin therapy; however, there are no clinical reports regarding the satisfaction of its use. Therefore, we conducted a survey among patients with type 1 diabetes undergoing treatment using an SGLT2 inhibitor.

METHODS

This is a single-arm open-label prospective study including 24 patients with type 1 diabetes who were to be initiated on ipragliflozin treatment between March and August 2019. All participants provided written informed consent. They completed the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) for the survey and 3 months of observation after the administration of an SGLT2 inhibitor (50 mg of ipragliflozin), and changes from baseline diabetes treatment satisfaction were evaluated using modified DTSQ scores (five-step evaluation) and were analyzed.

RESULTS

The average score for each question on DTSQ significantly increased [mean (standard deviation); 0.25 (0.25) vs 0.83 (0.77), P = 0.004]. Approximately 75% of the patients perceived an improvement in glycemic control over short periods of time. Finally, 54.2% of patients were highly satisfied and would recommend the SGLT2 inhibitor treatment [0.0 (0.0) vs. 0.92 (1.32), P < 0.001]. After the administration of ipragliflozin, reductions in body weight [24.0 (2.9) vs. 23.4 (2.9) kg/m², P = 0.002], total insulin [39.1 (12.9) vs. 34.3 (12.5) units, P = 0.013], and glycated hemoglobin [7.77 (0.97) vs. 7.40 (0.86) %, P = 0.013] were observed, without any severe side effects. Improvements in glycemic variability indexes were observed through flash glucose monitoring.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 inhibitors may improve clinical treatment satisfaction by improving glycemic variability in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, while not inducing severe side effects with careful use.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000040487).

[Short-term Glucose Lowering Effects of Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors Confirmed by Flash Glucose Monitoring in Two Outpatients with Type 1 Diabetes]

Case 1 was a 41-year-old man with type 1 diabetes. He presented with poor glycemic control [hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 8-9%] despite treatment with more than 20 units/day of insulin and 150 mg of miglitol. Before administration of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, hyperglycemia was noted mainly at night by Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM). Administration of ipragliflozin at 50 mg improved the hyperglycemia mainly at night (mean blood glucose, before administration: 205 mg/dl, day 6 of treatment: 119 mg/dl). Two months later, the HbA1c improved to 7.2% without hypoglycemia or ketosis. Case 2 was a 46-year-old woman with type 1 diabetes. She was morbidly obese and presented with poor glycemic control (HbA1c: 9-11%) although she was being treated with more than 50 units/day of insulin and 2,250 mg of metformin. Before administration of SGLT2 inhibitor, hyperglycemia was noted to be mainly nocturnal by FGM. Administration of dapagliflozin at 5 mg improved the hyperglycemia mainly at night on day 2 with improvement in the mean blood glucose level from 188 mg/dl before administration to 128 mg/dl on day 5. Four months later, the HbA1c improved to 8.0% without hypoglycemia and ketosis, and her body weight decreased from 92.1 to 89.8 kg. The hypoglycemic effect of SGLT2 inhibitors is independent of insulin. These agents also have various other effects, including weight loss, improvement of blood pressure and lipid metabolism. Here we report the short-term glucose lowering effects of two SGLT2 inhibitors, as confirmed by FGM, in two outpatients with type 1 diabetes.

Assessing the risk of ketoacidosis due to sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT)-2 inhibitors in patients with type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis and meta-regression

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (SGLT2i) showed benefits in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), but the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) limits their use. Ability to predict DKA risk and therapeutic responses would enable appropriate patient selection for SGLT2i. We conducted a meta-analysis and meta-regression of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating SGLT2i in T1DM to assess moderators of the relative risk (RR) of DKA, of glycemic (HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, continuous glucose monitoring parameters, insulin dose, and insulin sensitivity indices) and non-glycemic (body mass index (BMI), systolic BP, renal function, albuminuria, and diabetic eye disorders) efficacy, and of other safety outcomes (including hypoglycemia, infections, major adverse cardiovascular events, and death).

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials, and other electronic sources through August 30, 2020, for RCTs comparing SGLT2i with active comparators or placebo in adult patients with T1DM. Reviewers extracted data for relevant outcomes, performed random effects meta-analyses, subgroup analyses, and multivariable meta-regression. The strength of evidence was summarized with the GRADE approach. Among 9,914 records identified, 18 placebo-controlled RCTs (7,396 participants, 50% males, mean age 42 y (range 23 to 55 y), 5 different SGLT2i evaluated), were included. Main outcome measures were effect sizes and moderators of glycemic and non-glycemic efficacy and of safety outcomes. In a multivariable meta-regression model, baseline BMI (β = 0.439 [95% CI: 0.211, 0.666], p < 0.001) and estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) (β = -0.766 [-1.276, -0.256], p = 0.001) were associated with the RR of DKA (RR: 2.81; 95% CI:1.97, 4.01; p < 0.001, R2 = 61%). A model including also treatment-related parameters (insulin dose change-to-baseline insulin sensitivity ratio and volume depletion) explained 86% of variance across studies in the risk of DKA (R2 = 86%). The association of DKA with a BMI >27 kg/m2 and with an eGDR <8.3 mg/kg/min was confirmed also in subgroup analyses. Among efficacy outcomes, the novel findings were a reduction in albuminuria (WMD: -9.91, 95% CI: -16.26, -3.55 mg/g, p = 0.002), and in RR of diabetic eye disorders (RR: 0.27[0.11, 0.67], p = 0.005) associated with SGLT2i. A SGLT2i dose-response gradient was consistently observed for main efficacy outcomes, but not for adverse events (AEs). Overall, predictors of DKA and of other AEs differed substantially from those of glycemic and non-glycemic efficacy. A limitation of our analysis was the relatively short (≤52 weeks) duration of included RCTs. The potential relevance for clinical practice needs also to be confirmed by real-world prospective studies.

CONCLUSIONS

In T1DM, the risk of DKA and main therapeutic responses to SGLT2i are modified by baseline BMI and insulin resistance, by total insulin dose reduction-to-baseline insulin sensitivity ratio, and by volume depletion, which may enable the targeted use of these drugs in patients with the greatest benefit and the lowest risk of DKA.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors improved time-in-range without increasing hypoglycemia in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes: A retrospective, single-center, pilot study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Studies have shown that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors increased time-in-range (TIR; percentage of time glucose level remains between 3.9 and 10.0 mmol/L [70-180 mg/dL]) and decreased glycemic variability in patients with type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on TIR, glycemic variability and glucose control in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes in a real clinical setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We designed a single-arm, retrospective cohort study to analyze data from patients starting to use ipragliflozin or dapagliflozin and who used a sensor-based flash glucose monitoring system between February 2019 and August 2019. We measured TIR, time above range >180 mg/dL (percentage of time with glucose level of >180 mg/dL or >10.0 mmol/L), time below range <70 mg/dL (percentage of time with glucose level of <70 mg/dL or <3.9 mmol/L), mean glucose and standard deviation, and coefficient of variation for glycemic variability, and then compared the data before and after SGLT2 inhibitors treatments.

RESULTS

We enrolled 15 patients in the study. The total dosages of basal insulin decreased significantly, but the total doses of bolus insulin did not change significantly. TIR increased significantly by approximately 11.6%; the time below range <70 mg/dL remained unchanged; and the mean glucose and standard deviation decreased significantly, whereas the coefficients of variation did not.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 inhibitors improved TIR and the mean glucose level and standard deviation without increasing the time below range <70 mg/dL in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Comparison of the Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Relationship of Ipragliflozin Between Patients With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

PURPOSE

To characterize the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to determine the appropriate dose regimen for a Phase III study of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with T1DM.

METHODS

The PK (AUC_24h of plasma ipragliflozin) and PD (renal glucose clearance) properties in patients with T1DM and T2DM were assessed in 2 independent clinical pharmacologic studies of ipragliflozin. The same maximum efficacy (E_max) model described the PK/PD relationship in patients with T1DM and T2DM. Changes in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) in T1DM patients were simulated by applying a previously established FPG model for ipragliflozin in patients with T2DM.

FINDINGS

Data from 42 patients with T1DM and 28 patients with T2DM were used. Comparable AUC_24h of plasma ipragliflozin and similar dose dependency were observed on day 14 between patients with T1DM and those with T2DM. Decreases in renal glucose clearance were comparable regardless of the ipragliflozin dose in both groups of patients. The estimated mean E_max and AUC_24h producing 50% of E_max (EX₅₀) were 45.1 mL/min (95% CI, 37.0-53.2 mL/min) and 2160 ng·h/mL (95% CI, 929-3390 ng·h/mL), respectively, in all patients with T1DM and T2DM. Observed FPG in patients with T1DM was reproduced well by the simulation from the previously established FPG model.

IMPLICATIONS

The PK/PD properties for ipragliflozin were comparable between patients with T1DM and T2DM, suggesting no substantial difference in PK/PD relationships in both patient populations. The dose regimen used for patients with T2DM was also recommended for a Phase III study in Japanese patients with T1DM. ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT01023945 and NCT02529449.

Long-term (52-week) efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin add-on therapy to insulin in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: An uncontrolled, open-label extension of a phase III study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the present study was to assess the long-term (52-week) efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in insulin-treated Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus and inadequate glycemic control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this 28-week, open-label extension of a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, 24-week phase III study, ipragliflozin recipients continued treatment (50 mg, once daily), and placebo recipients were switched to once-daily 50 mg ipragliflozin at the start of the extension period. The ipragliflozin dose could be increased to 100 mg if warranted. The primary end-point was change in glycated hemoglobin; secondary end-points were change in insulin dose and bodyweight. Safety outcomes were monitored as treatment-emergent adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 53 (placebo switched to ipragliflozin) and 108 (ipragliflozin) patients completed the open-label extension (treatment period 2), with 24 and 44 patients, respectively, receiving dose increases. From baseline to end of treatment, the overall mean change (standard deviation [SD]) in glycated hemoglobin was -0.33% (0.72; -3.7 mmol/mol [7.9]), with changes in basal, bolus and total insulin doses of -3.76 IU (SD 3.85 IU), -2.51 IU (SD 7.08 IU) and -6.27 IU (SD 8.16 IU), respectively. No serious drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events or deaths were reported. Treatment-emergent adverse events leading to study discontinuation occurred in zero and three (2.6%) patients in the placebo switched to ipragliflozin and ipragliflozin groups, respectively; all were considered drug-related. There were no cases of severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis, and no safety concerns related to dose increase.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy and safety of 50 mg, once-daily ipragliflozin in insulin-treated type 1 diabetes mellitus patients were confirmed in this long-term, open-label extension study. No safety concerns were attributed to a dose increase to 100 mg.

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

INTRODUCTION

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS

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

FUNDING

Astellas Pharma Inc.

Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin add-on therapy to insulin in Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of once-daily ipragliflozin 50 mg versus placebo in Japanese people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) inadequately controlled with insulin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a multicentre, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase 3 study. Participants (N = 175) were randomized (2:1) to receive once-daily ipragliflozin 50 mg (n = 115) or placebo (n = 60), combined with insulin, for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c); key secondary endpoints included change in insulin dose and body weight. Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The ipragliflozin group demonstrated a significant decrease in HbA1c from baseline to end of treatment versus the placebo group: adjusted mean difference (AMD) -3.8 mmol/mol (95% confidence interval [CI] -6.2, -1.5) or - 0.36% (95% CI -0.57, -0.14; P = 0.001). Significant reductions in total daily insulin dose (AMD -7.35 IU [95% CI -9.09, -5.61]; P < 0.001) and body weight (AMD -2.87 kg [95% CI -3.58, -2.16]; P < 0.001) were observed for the ipragliflozin group versus placebo. Two serious TEAEs occurred (major hypoglycaemia and abdominal abscess); both were in the placebo group. All other TEAEs were mild or moderate in severity. Four cases of study discontinuation occurred; three in the placebo group and one in the ipragliflozin group. No diabetic ketoacidosis was reported for any participant in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Daily ipragliflozin 50 mg in combination with insulin significantly reduced HbA1c, daily insulin dose and body weight versus placebo in people with T1DM. No safety concerns were identified after 24 weeks of treatment. Overall, once-daily ipragliflozin 50 mg was both efficacious and well tolerated.

Open-Label Study to Assess the Efficacy of Ipragliflozin for Reducing Insulin Dose in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Receiving Insulin Therapy

Background and Objective

To avoid insulin-induced hypoglycemia and weight gain, the minimum dose of insulin should be used. In this study, therefore, we examined insulin dose reduction by ipragliflozin add-on therapy in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with long-acting basal insulin.

Methods

In this multicenter, open-label study, patients received one ipragliflozin 50-mg tablet once daily in combination with basal insulin for 24 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change and percent change in insulin dose from baseline to Week 24. Secondary efficacy endpoints included changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycoalbumin, cholesterol, leptin, adiponectin, C-peptide, glucagon, body weight, and blood pressure, and number of patients achieving withdrawal of insulin at the end of treatment (EOT). Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were evaluated for safety.

Results

In total, 114 patients were screened, 103 were registered, and 97 completed the study. The mean age was 59 years and 72.8% of patients were male. The mean change in insulin dose from baseline at Week 24 was − 6.6 ± 4.4 units/day (p < 0.001); the mean percent change was − 29.87%. HbA1c, FPG, glycoalbumin, glucagon levels, body weight, and blood pressure significantly decreased from baseline to EOT (p < 0.05). Cholesterol, leptin, and adiponectin were unaffected. One patient was able to stop insulin treatment at Week 16. The incidence of TEAEs was 60.2%. Hypoglycemia (10.7%) and pollakiuria (13.6%) were the most common drug-related TEAEs. Conclusions Once-daily 50-mg ipragliflozin enabled a 30% dose reduction of insulin by Week 24 compared with baseline. No major safety concerns were raised.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02847091)

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s40261-019-00851-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.