All-cause mortality and cardiovascular outcomes with sodium-glucose Co-transporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and with combination therapy in people with type 2 diabetes

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy in diabetes: an update with a focus on management

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is an under-recognised yet highly prevalent microvascular complication of diabetes. CAN affects approximately 20% of people with diabetes, with recent studies highlighting the presence of CAN in prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance and/or impaired fasting glucose), indicating early involvement of the autonomic nervous system. Understanding of the pathophysiology of CAN continues to evolve, with emerging evidence supporting a potential link between lipid metabolites, mitochondrial dysfunction and genetics. Recent advancements, such as streamlining CAN detection through wearable devices and monitoring of heart rate variability, present simplified and cost-effective approaches for early CAN detection. Further research on the optimal use of the extensive data provided by such devices is required. Despite the lack of specific pharmacological interventions targeting the underlying pathophysiology of autonomic neuropathy, several studies have suggested a favourable impact of newer glucose-lowering agents, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, where there is a wealth of clinical trial data on the prevention of cardiovascular events. This review delves into recent developments in the area of CAN, with emphasis on practical guidance to recognise and manage this underdiagnosed condition, which significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in diabetes.

Cardiovascular and renal effects of the combination therapy of a GLP-1 receptor agonist and an SGLT2 inhibitor in observational real-life studies

BACKGROUND

Combining a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) and an sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) improved cardiovascular (and renal) prognosis compared to either monotherapy in several post-hoc exploratory analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) versus placebo carried out in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and high cardiovascular/renal risk. The aim of the present work is to verify if such a benefit of the combined therapy is also present in real-life clinical practice.

METHODS

An extended search of the literature was performed to select observational retrospective studies that compared cardiovascular and/or renal outcomes in patients with T2DM treated with a GLP-1RA/SGLT2i combination versus patients treated with either GLP-1RA monotherapy or SGLT2i monotherapy, in addition to standard of care therapy.

RESULTS

Nine observational studies showed that a GLP-1RA/SGLT2i combination is associated with a greater reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), hospitalization for heart failure and all-cause-mortality when compared to either GLP-1RA alone or SGLT2i alone, without obvious differences between the two monotherapies, including regarding heart failure. Results were obtained in different populations, including patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and/or heart failure. Only three observational studies gave information on renal outcomes, with a greater benefit when the GLP-1RA/SGLT2i combination was compared with GLP-1RA alone or SGLT2i alone.

CONCLUSION

In real-life conditions, the GLP-1RA/SGLT2i combination reduced cardiovascular and renal outcomes compared with both GLP-1RA monotherapy and SGLT2i monotherapy. Overall, observational studies confirm the results reported in post-hoc exploratory analyses of RCTs versus placebo.

SGLT2 Inhibitors, but Not GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Reduce Incidence of Gout in People Living With Type 2 Diabetes Across the Therapeutic Spectrum

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the relative association between sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ra) with the incidence of gout in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) using real-world data.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study using data from TriNetX (an international federated database). We included patients commenced on metformin or insulin, either alone or with an SGLT2i or GLP-1Ra, at least 2 years prior to date of analysis. We propensity score matched (PSM) (1:1) for 26 relevant characteristics. Time to event analysis was performed to assess the incidence of gout, all-cause mortality (positive control), and herpes zoster infection (negative control) at 5 years following drug initiation.

FINDINGS

Prior to PSM, the cohort numbers were as follows: metformin control, 1,111,449; SGLT2i with metformin, 101,706; GLP-1Ra with metformin, 110,180, insulin control, 1,398,066; SGLT2i with insulin, 68,697; and GLP-1Ra with insulin, 99,693. SGLT2i with metformin demonstrated a statistically significant decreased incidence of gout at 5 years compared to the metformin control cohort (HR 0.75 [95% CI 0.69-0.82], P < 0.0001). Similarly, SGLT2i with insulin demonstrated a statistically significant decreased incidence of gout at 5 years compared to the insulin control cohort (HR 0.83 [95% CI 0.74-0.92], P < 0.0001). Conversely, no significant disparity in gout incidence was observed between the use of GLP-1Ra and matched controls. Subgroup analysis showed an associated reduced incidence of gout with SGLT2i use compared to GLP-1Ra, in groups using metformin (HR 0.77 [95% CI 0.70-0.86], P < 0.0001) or insulin (HR 0.82 [95% CI 0.73-0.91)], P < 0.0001).

IMPLICATIONS

In this large-scale real-world study, SGLT2i use was associated with a lower incidence of gout in patients with T2D compared to both insulin and metformin controls. These findings suggest the potential of SGLT2i as a promising therapeutic option for treating gout in this population.

Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

The development of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) for type 2 diabetes and obesity was followed by data establishing the cardiorenal benefits of GLP-1RA in select patient populations. In ongoing trials investigators are interrogating the efficacy of these agents for new indications, including metabolic liver disease, peripheral artery disease, Parkinson disease, and Alzheimer disease. The success of GLP-1-based medicines has spurred the development of new molecular entities and combinations with unique pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, exemplified by tirzepatide, a GIP-GLP-1 receptor coagonist. Simultaneously, investigational molecules such as maritide block the GIP and activate the GLP-1 receptor, whereas retatrutide and survodutide enable simultaneous activation of the glucagon and GLP-1 receptors. Here I highlight evidence establishing the efficacy of GLP-1-based medicines, while discussing data that inform safety, focusing on muscle strength, bone density and fractures, exercise capacity, gastrointestinal motility, retained gastric contents and anesthesia, pancreatic and biliary tract disorders, and the risk of cancer. Rapid progress in development of highly efficacious GLP-1 medicines, and anticipated differentiation of newer agents in subsets of metabolic disorders, will provide greater opportunities for use of personalized medicine approaches to improve the health of people living with cardiometabolic disorders.

A review of the latest real-world evidence studies in diabetic kidney disease: What have we learned about clinical practice and the clinical effectiveness of interventions?

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), remains a challenge in clinical practice as this is the major cause of kidney failure worldwide. Clinical trials do not answer all the questions raised in clinical practice and real-world evidence provides complementary insights from randomized controlled trials. Real-life longitudinal data highlight the need for improved screening and management of diabetic nephropathy in primary care. Adherence to the recommended guidelines for comprehensive care appears to be suboptimal in clinical practice in patients with DKD. Barriers to the initiation of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for patients with DKD persist in clinical practice, in particular for the elderly. Attainment of blood pressure targets often remains an issue. Initiation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in routine clinical practice is associated with a reduced risk of albuminuria progression and a possible beneficial effect on kidney function. Real-world evidence confirms a beneficial effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the decline of glomerular filtration, even in the absence of albuminuria, with a lower risk of acute kidney injury events compared to GLP-1RA use. In addition, SGLT2 inhibitors confer a lower risk of hyperkalaemia after initiation compared with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in patients with DKD. Data from a large population indicate that diuretic treatment increases the risk of a significant decline in glomerular filtration rate in the first few weeks of treatment after SGLT2 inhibitor initiation. The perspective for a global approach targeting multifaceted criteria for diabetic individuals with DKD is emerging based on real-world evidence but there is still a long way to go to achieve this goal.

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and SGLT2 Inhibitors in Type 2 Diabetes: Pleiotropic Cardiometabolic Effects and Add-on Value of a Combined Therapy

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have proven efficacy and safety in randomized clinical trials and observational real-life studies. Besides improving glucose control, reducing body weight, and lowering arterial blood pressure (surrogate endpoints), the breakthroughs were the demonstration of a significant reduction in cardiovascular and renal events in patients with type 2 diabetes at high risk. GLP-1RAs reduce events linked to atherogenic cardiovascular disease (especially ischemic stroke) and also renal outcomes (FLOW trial with semaglutide), with a limited effect on heart failure. The most striking protective effects of SGLT2is were a marked reduction in hospitalization for heart failure and a remarkable reduced progression of chronic kidney disease. These benefits have been attributed to numerous pleiotropic effects beyond glucose-lowering action. Underlying mechanisms contributing to cardiovascular and renal protection are at least partially different between GLP-1RAs (mainly anti-atherogenic and vascular effects) and SGLT2is (mainly systemic and intrarenal hemodynamic changes). Thus, patients at high risk may benefit from complementary actions when being treated with a GLP-1RA/SGLT2i combination. Such combination has proven its efficacy on surrogate endpoints. Furthermore, post hoc subgroup analyses of cardiovascular outcome trials have suggested a greater cardiorenal protection in patients treated with a combination versus either monotherapy. The benefits of a combined therapy have been confirmed in a few retrospective cohort studies. A dedicated prospective trial comparing a combined therapy versus either monotherapy is ongoing (PRECIDENTD); however, several challenges still remain, especially the higher cost of a combined therapy and the worldwide underuse of either GLP-1RAs or SGLT2is in clinical practice, even in patients at high cardiorenal risk.

Therapeutic potential of relaxin or relaxin mimetics in managing cardiovascular complications of diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease with an escalating global prevalence. Despite the abundance and relative efficacies of current therapeutic approaches, they primarily focus on attaining the intended glycaemic targets, but patients ultimately still suffer from various diabetes-associated complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, and atherosclerosis. There is a need to explore innovative and effective diabetic treatment strategies that not only address the condition itself but also combat its complications. One promising option is the reproductive hormone relaxin, an endogenous ligand of the RXFP1 receptor. Relaxin is known to exert beneficial actions on the cardiovascular system through its vasoprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects. Nevertheless, the native relaxin peptide exhibits a short biological half-life, limiting its therapeutic potential. Recently, several relaxin mimetics and innovative delivery technologies have been developed to extend its biological half-life and efficacy. The current review provides a comprehensive landscape of the cardiovascular effects of relaxin, focusing on its potential therapeutic applications in managing complications associated with diabetes. The latest advancements in the development of relaxin mimetics and delivery methods for the treatment of cardiometabolic disorders are also discussed.

Prognostic impact of switching to the 2021 chronic kidney disease epidemiology collaboration creatinine-based equation in Caucasian patients with type 2 diabetes: the Renal Insufficiency and Cardiovascular events (RIACE) Italian Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

A Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Epidemiology Collaboration (EPI) formula not including a Black race coefficient has been recently developed and is now recommended in the US. The new (2021) equation was shown to yield higher estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values than the old (2009) one in a non-Black general population sample, thus reclassifying a significant number of individuals to a better eGFR category. However, reclassified individuals were previously shown to have a lower risk of progression to end-stage kidney disease, but higher adjusted risks for all-cause death and morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease than those not reclassified. This study evaluated the prognostic impact of switching from the 2009 to the 2021 CKD-EPI equation in non-Black individuals with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

The Renal Insufficiency And Cardiovascular Events (RIACE) was a prospective cohort study enrolling 15,773 Caucasian patients in 19 Italian centers in 2006-2008. Cardiometabolic risk profile, treatments, complications, and comorbidities were assessed at baseline and eGFR was calculated with the two equations. Vital status was retrieved on 31 October 2015 for 15,656 participants (99.3%).

RESULTS

With the 2021 equation, the eGFR value increased in all patients, except for 293 individuals with a 2009 eGFR ≥ 105 ml·min- 1·1.73 m- 2. The median difference was 4.10 ml·min- 1·1.73 m- 2 and was higher in males, older individuals and those in the G2 category. Reclassification decreased the percentage of patients with reduced eGFR from 17.28 to 13.96% and with any CKD from 36.23 to 34.03%. Reclassified individuals had better cardiometabolic risk profile and lower prevalence of complications and use of medications than non-reclassified individuals. Risk of death versus the 2009 G1 category was lower for reclassified than non-reclassified participants in all eGFR categories and, particularly, in each 2009 eGFR category, though difference was significant only in the G4-G5 category. The Receiver Operator Characteristic curves were statistically, but not clinically different with the two equations.

CONCLUSION

Changing from the 2009 to the 2021 CKD-EPI equation results in higher eGFR and lower CKD prevalence, with a lower risk of death in reclassified patients with an eGFR < 30 ml·min- 1·1.73 m- 2, but virtually no impact on mortality prediction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00715481, retrospectively registered 15 July, 2008.

Morbidity and mortality risks associated with valproate withdrawal in young adults with epilepsy

Valproate is the most effective treatment for idiopathic generalized epilepsy. Current guidance precludes its use in females of childbearing potential, unless other treatments are ineffective or not tolerated, because of high teratogenicity. This risk was recently extended to males. New guidance will limit use both in males and females aged <55 years, resulting in withdrawal of valproate from males already taking it, as occurs for females. Whether there are risks of personal harm (including injury or death) associated with valproate withdrawal has not yet been quantified for males or females ON valproate, meaning clinicians cannot reliably counsel either sex when discussing valproate withdrawal with them, despite that this concern may be at the forefront of patients' and clinicians' minds. We assessed whether there are any morbidity or mortality risks associated with valproate withdrawal in young males and females. We performed a retrospective cohort study of internationally derived electronic health data within the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network. Included were males and females aged 16-54 years with ≥1 epilepsy disease or symptom code between 1 December 2017 and 1 December 2018, and ≥2 valproate prescriptions over the preceding 2 years (1 January 2015-30 November 2017). Five-year propensity-matched risks of mortality and a range of morbidity outcomes were compared between those remaining ON versus withdrawn from valproate during the 1 December 2017-1 December 2018 recruitment period, regardless of whether switched to another antiseizure medication. Survival analysis was undertaken using Cox-proportional hazard models, generating hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In total, 8991 males and 5243 females taking valproate were recruited. Twenty-eight per cent of males and 36% of females were subsequently withdrawn from valproate. Valproate withdrawal was associated with significantly increased risks of emergency department attendance [HRs overall: 1.236 (CI 1.159-1.319), males: 1.181 (CI 1.083-1.288), females: 1.242 (CI 1.125-1.371)], hospital admission [HRs overall: 1.160 (CI 1.081-1.246), males: 1.132 (CI 1.027-1.249), females: 1.147 (CI 1.033-1.274)], falls [HRs overall: 1.179 (CI 1.041-1.336), males: 1.298 (CI 1.090-1.546)], injuries [HRs overall: 1.095 (CI 1.021-1.174), males: 1.129 (CI 1.029-1.239)], burns [HRs overall: 1.592 (CI 1.084-2.337)] and new-onset depression [HRs overall 1.323 (CI 1.119-1.565), females: 1.359 (CI 1.074-1.720)]. The risk of these outcomes occurring was 1%-7% higher in those withdrawn from valproate than in those remaining ON valproate. Overall, valproate withdrawal was not associated with increased mortality. These results may help patients and clinicians have a more informed discussion about personal safety when considering valproate withdrawal.

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

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

The synergistic impact of type 2 diabetes and MASLD on cardiovascular, liver, diabetes-related and cancer outcomes

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We examined the impact of a co-diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) on patient outcomes.

METHODS

Using TriNetX, a global federated research network (n = 114 million), we undertook two retrospective cohort studies, using time-to-event analysis. Analysis 1 compared MASLD with T2D to MASLD alone; analysis 2 compared T2D with MASLD to T2D alone. Propensity score matching using greedy nearest neighbour (calliper .1) balanced the cohorts (1:1) for significant covariates. Primary outcomes were cardiovascular, liver, diabetes-related, and cancer events over 5 years.

RESULTS

Analysis 1 (n = 95 275): a co-diagnosis of T2D significantly increased the risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) (HR 1.39; CI: 1.34, 1.44), ischaemic stroke (HR 1.45; CI: 1.35, 1.56), heart failure (HR 1.42; CI: 1.36, 1.49), atrial fibrillation (HR 1.09; CI: 1.03, 1.16), hepatocellular carcinoma (HR 1.96; CI: 1.69, 2.27), pancreatic cancer (HR 1.25; CI: 1.06, 1.48) and liver-related complications over 5 years from MASLD diagnosis. Analysis 2 (n = 15 208): a co-diagnosis of MASLD significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR 1.11; CI: 1.02, 1.22), IHD (HR 1.181; CI: 1.08, 1.29), hepatocellular (HR 50.31; CI: 6.94, 364.72), pancreatic (HR 1.78; CI: 1.12, 2.84), breast (HR 1.43; CI: 1.09, 1.88) and renal cancer (HR 2.01; CI: 1.24, 3.26), and diabetic neuropathy (HR 1.17; CI: 1.09, 1.27) over 5 years from metformin initiation.

CONCLUSIONS

T2D significantly potentiates the risk of cardiovascular, malignancy and liver-related outcomes in people with MASLD. The effect of MASLD on people with T2D, although less dramatic, still potentiated risk of death, IHD, malignancy and peripheral neuropathy.

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists During Electroconvulsive Therapy: Case Report With Evolving Concerns and Management Considerations

ABSTRACT

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are an emerging class of medications transforming the management of diabetes mellitus and obesity, two highly prevalent and chronic medical conditions associated with significant morbidity and posing serious public health concerns. Although generally well tolerated and relatively safe to use, case reports of patients taking these medications while undergoing elective procedures with general anesthesia describe a potential heightened risk of regurgitation and pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents, deriving from the delayed gastric emptying effect of these agents. Based on increased recognition of this risk, the American Society of Anesthesiologists convened a task force to review available data, resulting in the promulgation of a new procedural management guideline for patients on these drugs and undergoing elective procedures with general anesthesia. However, this guideline pertains mostly to procedures and situations that are distinct from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This case report describes the experience of a patient on semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist for obesity, undergoing ECT, provides a general overview of this novel drug class, identifies issues specific to ECT management, and suggests potential adaptations to patient care over different phases of ECT practice.

Consensus on glycemic management for patients with coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes

The prevalence of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and diabetes mellitus is notably high, posing significant residual cardiovascular risks even after routine interventions such as antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, and antithrombotic treatments. Recent studies have demonstrated that certain glucose-lowering medications confer cardiovascular benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes. However, a survey indicates that cardiologists may not be fully acquainted with the optimal screening timing, indicators, and diagnostic criteria for type 2 diabetes, and there is insufficient awareness and a low rate of prescription of novel glucose-lowering medications with proven cardiovascular efficacy, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i). In this context, based on domestic and international guidelines or consensus and the latest evidence-based evidence, this consensus aims to standardize the glycemic management for patients with acute coronary syndrome, chronic coronary syndrome, and perioperative management for percutaneous coronary intervention. It highlights the key points of screening and diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, and the comprehensive management of cardiovascular risk in patients with CHD. The consensus elaborates on the principles and algorithms of glycemic management for CHD patients, without involving acute complications of diabetes, clarifies the clinical practice of glucose-lowering medications with cardiovascular benefits, and promotes the standardized use of these medications in cardiovascular and other related specialty fields. Additionally, it addresses the glucose-lowering treatment to comprehensively reduce cardiovascular risks.

Effect of combination pioglitazone with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on outcomes in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and real-world study from an international federated database

AIMS

To evaluate the efficacy and cardiovascular outcomes of combination pioglitazone with either a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) or a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) by conducting a systematic review, meta-analysis, and analysis of a large international real-world database.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, SCOPUS and Web of Science to identify relevant articles for inclusion (PROSPERO [CRD: 42023483126]). Nineteen studies assessing pioglitazone + SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1RAs versus controls were identified, 16 of which were randomized controlled trials. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane-endorsed tools and quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE. We additionally performed a retrospective cohort study of all individuals aged 18 years or over with T2D, using the TriNetX platform. We included propensity-score-matched individuals who were treated for at least 1 year with pioglitazone and a GLP-1RA or pioglitazone and an SGLT2 inhibitor, compared against GLP-1RA and SGLT2 inhibitor monotherapy. Outcomes were all-cause mortality, heart failure, chronic kidney disease and composite stroke and transient ischaemic attack.

RESULTS

The average follow-up in the included studies ranged from 24 to 52 weeks. Combination of pioglitazone with a GLP-1RA reduced glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and weight greater than in controls: mean differences -1% (95% confidence interval [CI] -1.27, -0.74) and -1.19 kg (95% CI -1.80, -0.58), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in systolic blood pressure (SBP) or mortality between groups: mean difference - 1.56 mmHg (95% CI -4.48, 1.35; p = 0.30) and relative risk (RR) 0.29 (95% CI 0.07-1.15; p = 0.08), respectively. Combination of pioglitazone with SGLT2 inhibitors reduced HbA1c, weight and SBP to a greater extent than control treatment: mean differences -0.48% (95% CI -0.67, -0.28), -2.3 kg (95% CI -2.72, -1.88) and -2.4 mmHg (95% CI -4.1, -0.7; p = 0.01), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between groups (RR 1.81, 95% CI 0.30-10.97; p = 0.52). The included trials demonstrated a reduction in risk of heart failure with combination treatment. Similarly, from the real-world database (n = 25 230 identified), pioglitazone and SGLT2 inhibitor combination therapy was associated with reduced risk of heart failure compared to monotherapy alone (hazard ratio 0.50, 95% CI 0.38-0.65; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Both our systematic review/meta-analysis and the real-world dataset show that combination of pioglitazone with either GLP-1RAs or SGLT2 inhibitors is associated with increased weight loss and reduced risk of heart failure compared with monotherapy.

Patient-important outcomes in type 2 diabetes: The paradigm of the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists

The newfound knowledge in type 2 diabetes (T2D) during the past decade for the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) is wealthy in favorable results for key patient-important outcomes including morbidity, mortality and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA offer cardiovascular and renal protection beyond their glucose lowering effect, reduce body weight and hypoglycemia and improve diabetes-related distress, physical function and HRQoL. Along with the fixed-ratio combinations of basal insulin/GLP-1RA, they make feasible a regimen simplification and de-escalation from high dose and multiple injections of insulin reducing treatment burden. Besides cardiorenal risk reduction, the SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA reduce the incidence of depression, cognitive decline, respiratory disease, gout, arrhythmias and other co-occurring conditions of T2D, namely multimorbidity, which frequently complicates T2D and adversely affects HRQoL. The alleviation of multimorbidity by the pleiotropic effects of the SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA, could improve patients' HRQoL. The use of the SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA should be increased within a shared decision-making in which they are reframed as cardiorenal risk-reducing medications with the potential to lower blood glucose. By improving outcomes that patients may highly perceive and value, the SGLT-2i and GLP-1RA may facilitate the contemporary person-centered management of T2D.

Risk of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes: a real-world data study from a global federated database

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

A protective role of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1-ra) in the development of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema has been described in some recent studies, which may extend beyond glycaemic control. We aimed to review the clinical impact of SGLT2i and GLP1-ra therapy on the risk of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema in individuals with type 2 diabetes taking insulin.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort analysis of approximately two million people with type 2 diabetes receiving insulin across 97 healthcare organisations using a global federated health research network (TriNetX, Cambridge, USA). Two intervention cohorts (SGLT2i + insulin, n=176,409; GLP1-ra + insulin, n=207,034) were compared against a control cohort (insulin with no SGLT2i/GLP1-ra, n=1,922,312). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed and estimated HRs were reported for each outcome. Propensity score was used to 1:1 match for age, sex, ischaemic heart disease, hypertension, microvascular complications, chronic kidney disease, HbA1c, BMI and use of pioglitazone, lipid modifying agents, antilipemic agents, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II inhibitors and metformin. A sub-analysis comparing the two intervention cohorts was also performed.

RESULTS

SGLT2i with insulin was associated with a reduced HR (95% CI) for diabetic macular oedema compared with the control cohort (0.835; 0.780, 0.893), while GLP1-ra with insulin demonstrated a lack of signal with no statistical significance to the HR (1.013; 0.960, 1.069). SGLT2i with insulin was not associated with a clinically significant increase in the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy (1.076; 1.027, 1.127), while GLP1-ra with insulin increased diabetic retinopathy risk (1.308; 1.261, 1.357). Compared with SGLT2i with insulin, GLP1-ra with insulin was associated with higher risk of diabetic retinopathy (1.205; 1.153, 1.259) and diabetic macular oedema (1.130; 1.056, 1.208).

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Our study suggests that the combination of SGLT2i and insulin is associated with lower risk of developing diabetic macular oedema. However, the use of GLP1-ra was associated with an increased risk of diabetic retinopathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes also taking insulin. A comparative analysis showed favourable outcomes with SGLT2i and insulin in the development of diabetic macular oedema and diabetic retinopathy. RCTs using dedicated  retinal imaging are required to determine the causal relationship with these therapies.

Hypoglycemic Drugs in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure: A Narrative Review

Over the last few years, given the increase in the incidence and prevalence of both type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and heart failure (HF), it became crucial to develop guidelines for the optimal preventive and treatment strategies for individuals facing these coexisting conditions. In patients aged over 65, HF hospitalization stands out as the predominant reason for hospital admissions, with their prognosis being associated with the presence or absence of T2DM. Historically, certain classes of glucose-lowering drugs, such as thiazolidinediones (rosiglitazone), raised concerns due to an observed increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) and cardiovascular (CV)-related mortality. In response to these concerns, regulatory agencies started requiring CV outcome trials for all novel antidiabetic agents [i.e., dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4 inhibitors), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is)] with the aim to assess the CV safety of these drugs beyond glycemic control. This narrative review aims to address the current knowledge about the impact of glucose-lowering agents used in T2DM on HF prevention, prognosis, and outcome.

Treating Type 2 Diabetes With Early, Intensive, Multimodal Pharmacotherapy: Real-World Evidence From an International Collaborative Database

Aims: We compared the glycaemic and cardiorenal effects of combination therapy involving metformin, pioglitazone, sodium-glucose-linked-cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) versus a more conventional glucocentric treatment approach combining sulphonylureas (SU) and insulin from the point of type 2 diabetes (T2D) diagnosis. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study using the Global Collaborative Network in TriNetX. We included individuals prescribed metformin, pioglitazone, an SGLT2i, and a GLP-1 RA for at least 1-year duration, within 3 years of a T2D diagnosis, and compared with individuals prescribed insulin and a SU within the same temporal pattern. Individuals were followed up for 3 years. Results: We propensity score-matched (PSM) for 26 variables. A total of 1762 individuals were included in the final analysis (n = 881 per cohort). At 3-years, compared to the insulin/SU group, the metformin/pioglitazone/SGLT2i/GLP-1 RA group had a lower risk of heart failure (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13-0.87, p = 0.018), acute coronary syndrome (HR 0.29, 95% CI 0.12-0.67, p = 0.002), stroke (HR 0.17, 95% CI 0.06-0.49, p < 0.001), chronic kidney disease (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.25-0.99, p = 0.042), and hospitalisation (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.46-0.77, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this real-world study, early, intensive polytherapy, targeting the distinct pathophysiological defects in T2D, is associated with significantly more favourable cardiorenal outcomes, compared to insulin and SU therapy.

Separate and combined effects of empagliflozin and semaglutide on vascular function: A 32-week randomized trial

AIM

Despite the increasing use of combination treatment with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, data are limited on the effects of combination treatment on markers of cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to investigate the effect of empagliflozin, semaglutide, and their combination on vascular function.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In total, 120 patients with type 2 diabetes were randomized into four groups (n = 30 in each) for 32 weeks: placebo, semaglutide, empagliflozin, and their combination. The study had two co-primary outcomes: change in arterial stiffness and kidney oxygenation. This paper reports on arterial stiffness assessed as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Secondary outcomes included 24-h blood pressure (BP), 24-h central BP, urinary albumin to creatinine ratio and glycaemic control assessed by both continuous glucose monitoring and glycated haemoglobin.

RESULTS

The carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity did not change significantly in any of the groups compared with placebo. Twenty-four-hour systolic BP was reduced by 10 mmHg (95% CI 6-14), p < .001 in the combination group, significantly superior to both placebo and monotherapy (p < .05). Combination treatment increased glycaemic time in range from 72% at baseline to 91% at week 32, p < .001, without increasing time below range. The urinary albumin to creatinine ratio decreased by 36% (95% CI 4-57), p = .03 in the combination group compared with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Empagliflozin, semaglutide, or their combination did not reduce arterial stiffness. Combination treatment showed a substantial and clinically important reduction in 24-h systolic BP compared with either treatment alone. Combination treatment increased glycaemic time in range without increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia.

Cardiovascular Outcomes with Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy in Patients with Diabetes: A Real-World Data Analysis

BACKGROUND

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is commonly used intravitreally for diabetic proliferative retinopathy, but when used systemically for treating cancers, an excess of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events has been noted. The latter is of concern for people with diabetes, who are at higher risk of CVD. This study aims to explore the relationship between incident CVD and intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy in patients with diabetes, compared to other therapies, using a large real-world global federated dataset.

METHODS

Data were analysed using TriNetX, a global electronic medical real-world ecosystem. The study included adults with diabetes and excluded those with a history of CVD prior to the time window of data extraction. Patients were categorised into two cohorts: anti-VEGF therapy or control cohort (laser or steroid therapies). The cohorts were 1:1 propensity score-matched for age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, HbA1c, and cardiovascular medications. Outcomes analysed at 1, 6 and 12 months were: (1) mortality; (2) acute myocardial infarction (MI); (3) cerebral infarction; and (4) heart failure. Relative risk analyses were performed using the built-in R statistical computing platform on TriNetX.

RESULTS

In patients with diabetes (n = 2205; mean age 58.8 ± 15.8, Std diff 0.05; 56% male), anti-VEGF therapy was associated with a numerical but non-statistically significant increased CVD risk over 1, 6, and 12 months: Mortality over 1 month (RR 1; 95% CI 0.42, 2.40), 6 months (RR 1.46; 95% CI 0.72, 2.95) and 12 months (RR 1.41; 95% CI 0.88, 2.27). There was no excess of acute MI over 1 (RR n/a: not applicable; 0/0: 0 events in the anti-VEGF group/0 events in the control group), 6 and 12 months (RR n/a; 0/10 events); cerebral infarction over 1, 6 months (RR n/a; 0/0 events), and 12 months (RR n/a; 0/10); and heart failure over 1 month (RR n/a; 0/0 events), 6 months (RR 1; 95% CI 0.42, 2.40) and 12 months (RR 1; 95% CI 0.42, 2.34).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no statistically significant risk of cardiovascular-related events in the short or medium term in patients with diabetes who received intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy, despite a small increase in the number of CVD events. Our study supports the real-world safety of intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy in patients with diabetes free of baseline CVD.

Effectiveness and safety of the combination of sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Randomized controlled trials and real-world studies suggest that combination therapy with sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) is associated with improvement in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass index (BMI), and total cholesterol levels. However, a systematic review of available real-world evidence may facilitate clinical decision-making in the real-world scenario. This meta-analysis assessed the safety and effectiveness of combinations of SGLT2is + GLP-1RAs with a focus on their cardioprotective effects along with glucose-lowering ability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in a real-world setting.

METHODS

Electronic searches were performed in the PubMed/MEDLINE, PROQuest, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google Scholar databases. Qualitative analyses and meta-analyses were performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute SUMARI software package and Review Manager v5.4, respectively.

RESULTS

The initial database search yielded 1445 articles; of these, 13 were included in this study. The analyses indicated that SGLT2is + GLP-1RAs combinations were associated with significantly lower all-cause mortality when compared with individual therapies (odds ratio [95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49 [0.41, 0.60]; p < 0.00001). Significant reductions in BMI (- 1.71 [- 2.74, - 0.67]; p = 0.001), SBP (- 6.35 [- 10.17, - 2.53]; p = 0.001), HbA1c levels (- 1.48 [- 1.75, - 1.21]; p < 0.00001), and FPG (- 2.27 [- 2.78, - 1.76]; p < 0.00001) were associated with the simultaneous administration of the combination. Changes in total cholesterol levels and differences between simultaneous and sequential combination therapies for this outcome were not significant.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review and meta-analysis based on real-world data suggests that the combination of SGLT2is + GLP-1RAs is associated with lower all-cause mortality and favorable improvements in cardiovascular, renal, and glycemic measurements. The findings drive a call-to-action to incorporate this combination early and simultaneously in managing T2DM patients and achieve potential cardiovascular benefits and renal protection.

Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2024 Edition)

With the deepening of aging in China, the prevalence of diabetes in older people has increased noticeably, and standardized diabetes management is critical for improving clinical outcomes of diabetes in older people. In 2021, the National Center of Gerontology, Chinese Society of Geriatrics, and Diabetes Professional Committee of Chinese Aging Well Association organized experts to write the first guideline for diabetes diagnosis and treatment in older people in China, the Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2021 Edition). The guideline emphasizes that older patients with diabetes are a highly heterogeneous group requiring comprehensive assessment and stratified and individualized management strategies. The guideline proposes simple treatments and de-intensified treatment strategies for older patients with diabetes. This edition of the guideline provides clinicians with practical and operable clinical guidance, thus greatly contributing to the comprehensive and full-cycle standardized management of older patients with diabetes in China and promoting the extensive development of clinical and basic research on diabetes in older people and related fields. In the past 3 years, evidence-based medicine for older patients with diabetes and related fields has further advanced, and new treatment concepts, drugs, and technologies have been developed. The guideline editorial committee promptly updated the first edition of the guideline and compiled the Guideline for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus in the Elderly in China (2024 Edition). More precise management paths for older patients with diabetes are proposed, for achieving continued standardization of the management of older Chinese patients with diabetes and improving their clinical outcomes.

MASLD treatment-a shift in the paradigm is imminent

MASLD prevalence is growing towards the leading cause of end-stage liver disease. Up to today, the most effective treatment is weight loss. Weight loss interventions are moving from lifestyle changes to bariatric surgery or endoscopy, and, more recently, to a new wave of anti-obesity drugs that can compete with bariatric surgery. Liver-targeted therapy is a necessity for those patients who already present liver fibrosis. The field is moving fast, and in the near future, we will testify to a disruptive change in MASLD treatment, similar to the paradigm-shift that occurred for hepatitis C almost one decade ago with direct antiviral agents.