Improved Time in Range and Glycemic Variability With Sotagliflozin in Combination With Insulin in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Pooled Analysis of 24-Week Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data From the inTandem Program

Short-term Glycemic Variability and Its Association With Macrovascular and Microvascular Complications in Patients With Diabetes

The introduction of continuous glucose monitoring inaugurated a new era in clinical practice by shifting the characterization of glycemic control from HbA1c to novel metrics. The one that gained widespread attention over the past decades was glycemic variability (GV), which typically refers to peaks and nadirs of blood glucose measured over a given time interval. GV can be dichotomized into two main categories: short-term and long-term. Short-term GV reflects within-day and between-day glycemic oscillations, and its contribution to diabetic complications remains an enigma. In this review, we summarize the available data about short-term GV and its possible association with both microvascular and macrovascular complications, evaluating different pathogenic mechanisms and demonstrating nonpharmaceutical, as well as pharmaceutical, therapeutic interventions.

A Randomized Crossover Trial of Mixed Meal Tolerance Test Response in People with Type 1 Diabetes on Insulin Pump Therapy and YG1699 or Dapagliflozin

YG1699 is a novel inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) and SGLT2. This double-blind, 3-way crossover trial compared YG1699 to dapagliflozin as an adjunct to insulin in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on insulin pump therapy. Treatment periods included four mixed meal tolerance tests (MMTTs) and insulin withdrawal tests per person. Nineteen adults with T1D were randomized to YG1699 10 mg, YG1699 25 mg, and dapagliflozin 10 mg once daily for 1 week in different orders. The primary end point was the difference in area under the curve (AUC) in plasma glucose (AUC0-120min) after an MMTT between treatment groups. Mean change in plasma glucose after an MMTT (AUC0-120min) was lower for YG1699 10 mg vs. dapagliflozin (89.51% of baseline vs. 102.13%, 90% confidence interval (CI) vs. dapagliflozin, -6% to -16%, P = 0.0003) and for YG1699 25 mg (84.83% vs. 102.13%, 90% CI vs. dapagliflozin -13% to -22%, P < 0.0001). At 120 minutes, mean glucose values on no treatment, dapagliflozin, YG1699 10 mg, and YG1699 25 mg were 149 (SE 7.6), 141 (SE 6.1), 128 (SE 6.9), and 115 (SE 7.8) mg/dL, respectively. Insulin dose requirements were lower for YG1699 10 mg and 25 mg vs. dapagliflozin for bolus insulin, and for YG1699 10 mg vs. dapagliflozin for total daily insulin. Safety profiles were similar between treatment groups. YG1699 reduced post-prandial glucose more than dapagliflozin in people with T1D on insulin pump therapy. The results were consistent with dual SGLT1/SGLT2 inhibition by YG1699.

Glycated Hemoglobin Variability Is Associated With Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure Irrespective of Diabetic Status

BACKGROUND

The effect of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) variability on adverse outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF) is unclear. We aim to investigate the predictive value of HbA1c variability on the risks of all-cause death and HF rehospitalization in patients with HF irrespective of their diabetic status.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using a previously validated territory-wide clinical data registry, HbA1c variability was assessed by average successive variability (ASV) or SD of all HbA1c measurements after HF diagnosis. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) and its corresponding 95% CI. A total of 65 950 patients with HF were included in the study. Over a median follow-up of 6.7 (interquartile range, 4.0-10.6) years, 34 508 patients died and 52 446 required HF rehospitalization. Every unit increment of variability in HbA1c was significantly associated with higher HF rehospitalization (HR ASV, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.18-1.23]) and all-cause death (HR ASV, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.47-1.53]). Diabetes significantly modified the association between HbA1c variability and outcomes (Pinteraction<0.001). HbA1c variability in patients with HF without diabetes conferred a higher risk of rehospitalization (HR ASV, 1.92 [95% CI, 1.70-2.17] versus HR ASV, 1.19 [95% CI, 1.17-1.21]), and all-cause death (HR ASV, 3.90 [95% CI, 3.31-4.61] versus HR ASV, 1.47 [95% CI, 1.43-1.50] compared with patients with diabetes).

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c variability is significantly associated with greater risk of rehospitalization and all-cause death in patients with HF, irrespective of their diabetic status. These observations were more pronounced in patients with HF without diabetes.

Effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on continuous glucose monitoring metrics, as adjunctive to insulin in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to evaluate the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) on continuous glucose monitoring metrics as adjunctive to insulin in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D).

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted through Medline (via PubMed), Cochrane Library and Google Scholar until October 25, 2023. Dual-independent study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted. Results were summarized with random effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eight RCTs were identified, involving a total of 2310 T1D patients. The use of SGLT2is on top of standard insulin therapy was associated with a significantly higher time in range (TIR) compared to placebo (mean difference (MD) 9.7 %; 95 % confidence interval (CI) [8.3, 1.11]; P < 0.001). The time above range was significantly lower in patients receiving SGLT2is (MD -8.71 %; 95 % CI [-11.62, -5.79]; P < 0.001), whereas no difference was observed regarding the time below range (TBR) (MD 0.34 %; 95 % CI [-0.17, 0.85]; P = 0.19). A significantly lower sensor-recorded mean daily glucose was noted in the group receiving SGLT2is (MD -16.55 mg/dL; 95 % CI [-19.82, -13.29]; P < 0.001). When considering the metrics of glucose variability, SGLT2is demonstrated a significant favorable effect on the mean amplitude of glucose excursions (MD -16.92 mg/dL; 95 % CI [-25.31, -8.13]; P < 0.001) and the mean standard deviation of weekly glucose levels (MD -7.67 mg/dL; 95 % CI [-11, -4.35]; P < 0.001). No significant effect was observed concerning the coefficient of variation (MD -1 %; 95 % CI [-2.39, 0.4]; P = 0.16). Regarding safety outcomes, SGLT2is were significantly linked to higher odds of diabetic ketoacidosis compared to insulin alone (OR 3.18; 95 % CI [1.79, 5.66]; P < 0.001), with no significant impact on severe hypoglycemia events (OR 1; 95 % CI [0.54, 1.85]; P = 0.1).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that in individuals with T1D, adjunct therapy with SGLT2is provides a significant benefit in terms of TIR and reduced glucose variability, without an increase in TBR.

Mitigating iftar-related glycemic excursions in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes on MiniMed™ 780G advanced hybrid closed loop system: a randomized clinical trial for adjunctive oral vildagliptin therapy during Ramadan fasting

BACKGROUND

Ramadan Iftar meal typically causes glucose excursions. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors increase glucagon-like peptide-1 and thus, decrease blood glucose levels with low risk of hypoglycemia.

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and safety of vildagliptin as an add-on therapy on glucose excursions of Iftar Ramadan meals among adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) using advanced hybrid closed-loop (AHCL) treatment.

METHODS

Fifty T1DM patients on MiniMed™ 780G AHCL were randomly assigned either to receive vildagliptin (50 mg tablet) with iftar meal during Ramadan month or not. All participants received pre-meal insulin bolus based on insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio (ICR) for each meal constitution.

RESULTS

Vildagliptin offered blunting of post-meal glucose surges (mean difference - 30.3 mg/dL [- 1.7 mmol/L] versus - 2.9 mg/dL [- 0.2 mmol/L] in control group; p < 0.001) together with concomitant exceptional euglycemia with time in range (TIR) significantly increased at end of Ramadan in intervention group from 77.8 ± 9.6% to 84.7 ± 8.3% (p = 0.016) and time above range (180-250 mg/dL) decreased from 13.6 ± 5.1% to 9.7 ± 3.6% (p = 0.003) without increasing hypoglycemia. A significant reduction was observed in automated daily correction boluses and total bolus dose by 23.9% and 16.3% (p = 0.015 and p < 0.023, respectively) with less aggressive ICR settings within intervention group at end of Ramadan. Coefficient of variation was improved from 37.0 ± 9.4% to 31.8 ± 7.1%; p = 0.035). No severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis were reported.

CONCLUSION

Adjunctive vildagliptin treatment mitigated postprandial hyperglycemia compared with pre-meal bolus alone. Vildagliptin significantly increased TIR while reducing glycemic variability without compromising safety. Trial registration This trial was registered under ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier no. NCT06021119.

The effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors as an adjunct to insulin in patients with type 1 diabetes assessed by continuous glucose monitoring: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

Patients undergoing insulin-based therapy for type 1 diabetes often experience poor glycemic control characterized by significant fluctuations. This study was undertaken to analyze the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is), as an adjunct to insulin, on time in range (TIR) and glycemic variability in patients with type 1 diabetes, using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). In addition, we examined which type of SGLT2I yielded a superior effect compared to others.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and clinical trial registry websites, retrieving all eligible randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published up until February 2023. We analyzed the mean TIR, mean amplitude of glucose excursions (MAGE), mean daily glucose (MDG), diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), standard deviation (SD), total insulin dose, and severe hypoglycemia to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SGLT2Is. A random-effects model was also employed.

RESULTS

This study encompassed 15 RCTs. The meta-analysis revealed that the use of SGLT2Is as an adjuvant therapy to insulin led to a significant increase in TIR (MD = 10.78, 95%CI = 9.33-12.23, I2 = 42 %, P < 0.00001) and a decrease in SD (MD = -0.38, 95%CI = -0.50 to -0.26, I2 = 0 %, P < 0.00001), MAGE (MD = -0.92, 95%CI = -1.17 to -0.67, I2 = 19 %, P < 0.00001), MDG(MD = -1.01, 95%CI = -1.32 to -0.70, I2 = 48 %, P < 0.00001), and total insulin dose (MD = -5.81, 95%CI = -7.81 to -3.82, I2 = 32 %, P < 0.00001). No significant increase was observed in the rate of severe hypoglycemia (RR = 1.04, 95 % CI = 0.76-1.43, P = 0.80). However, SGLT2I therapy was associated with increased DKA occurrence (RR = 2.79, 95 % CI = 1.42-5.48; P = 0.003, I2 = 16 %). In addition, the subgroup analyses based on the type of SGLT2Is revealed that dapagliflozin might exhibit greater efficacy compared to other SGLT2Is across most outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2Is exhibited a positive effect on improving blood glucose level fluctuations. Subgroup analysis showed that dapagliflozin appeared to have more advantages. However, giving due consideration to preventing adverse effects, particularly DKA, is paramount.

REGISTRATION

Prospero CRD42023408276.

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.

Mechanistic evaluation of the inhibitory effect of four SGLT-2 inhibitors on SGLT 1 and SGLT 2 using physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approaches

Sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT 2, gliflozins) inhibitors are potent orally active drugs approved for managing type 2 diabetes. SGLT 2 inhibitors exert a glucose-lowering effect by suppressing sodium-glucose co-transporters 1 and 2 in the intestinal and kidney proximal tubules. In this study, we developed a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model and simulated the concentrations of ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, henagliflozin, and sotagliflozin in target tissues. We used the perfusion-limited model to illustrate the disposition of SGLT 2 inhibitors in vivo. The modeling parameters were obtained from the references. Simulated steady-state plasma concentration-time curves of the ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, henagliflozin, and sotagliflozin are similar to the clinically observed curves. The 90% prediction interval of simulated excretion of drugs in urine captured the observed data well. Furthermore, all corresponding model-predicted pharmacokinetic parameters fell within a 2-fold prediction error. At the approved doses, we estimated the effective concentrations in intestinal and kidney proximal tubules and calculated the inhibition ratio of SGLT transporters to differentiate the relative inhibition capacities of SGLT1 and 2 in each gliflozin. According to simulation results, four SGLT 2 inhibitors can nearly completely inhibit SGLT 2 transporter at the approved dosages. Sotagliflozin exhibited the highest inhibition activity on SGLT1, followed by ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, and henagliflozin, which showed a lower SGLT 1 inhibitory effect. The PBPK model successfully simulates the specific target tissue concentration that cannot be measured directly and quantifies the relative contribution toward SGLT 1 and 2 for each gliflozin.

A new proposal for a second insulin bolus to optimize postprandial glucose profile in adolescents with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

To evaluate whether a second insulin bolus, calculated with a new approach, could improve postprandial glucose (PPG) after the intake of real-life high-fat (HF) and high-protein (HP) mixed meals.

METHODS

Fifteen adolescents with T1D treated with non-automated insulin pumps and CGM were enrolled. Patients received standard, HF and HP mixed meals treated with one pre-meal insulin bolus; based on differences in PPG between standard, HF and HP meals, correction boluses were calculated (30% and 60% of pre-meal bolus for HF and HP meals, respectively). Then patients received the same HF or HP meal treated with pre-meal bolus plus second insulin bolus after 3 h. Differences between postprandial variables after HF and HP meals treated with one or two insulin boluses were assessed by paired Student's t-test.

RESULTS

Treating HF and HP meals with two insulin boluses significantly reduced the postprandial BG-AUC (21% and 26% respectively, p < 0.05), increased %TIR (from 52.5 to 78.3% for HF meal; from 32.7 to 57.1% for HP meal; p < 0.01), and reduced mean BG and %TAR (p < 0.01), with no differences in %TBR.

CONCLUSIONS

The new way to calculate and administer correction boluses 3 h after HF and HP meals is effective and safe in reducing PPG and the hypoglycemia risk.

Effect of dapagliflozin on 24-hour glycemic variables in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving basal insulin supported oral therapy (DBOT): a multicenter, randomized, open-label, parallel-group study

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of dapagliflozin on 24-hour glucose variability and diabetes-related biochemical variables in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes who had received basal insulin supported oral therapy (BOT).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Changes in mean daily blood glucose level before and after 48-72 hours of add-on or no add-on of dapagliflozin (primary end point) and diabetes-related biochemical variables and major safety variables during the 12 weeks (secondary end point) were evaluated in the multicenter, randomized, two-arm, open-label, parallel-group comparison study.

RESULTS

Among 36 participants, 18 were included in the no add-on group and 18 were included in the dapagliflozin add-on group. Age, gender, and body mass index were comparable between the groups. There were no changes in continuous glucose monitoring metrics in the no add-on group. In the dapagliflozin add-on group, mean glucose (183-156 mg/dL, p=0.001), maximum glucose (300-253, p<0.01), and SD glucose (57-45, p<0.05) decreased. Time in range increased (p<0.05), while time above the range decreased in the dapagliflozin add-on group but not in the no add-on group. After 12-week treatment with dapagliflozin add-on, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG), as well as hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that the mean daily blood glucose and other daily glucose profiles were amended after 48-72 hours of dapagliflozin add-on in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes who received BOT. The diabetes-related biochemical variables such as HbA1c and urinary 8OHdG were also obtained during the 12 weeks of dapagliflozin add-on without major adverse events. A preferable 24-hour glucose profile in 'time in ranges' and an improvement in reactive oxygen species by dapagliflozin warrant us to evaluate these benefits in larger clinical studies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

UMIN000019457.

Controlling glycemic variability in people living with type 1 diabetes receiving insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300)

Short-term glycemic variability is associated with the risk of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia in people living with type 1 diabetes and can potentially affect clinical outcomes. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is of increasing importance to evaluate glycemic variability in greater detail. Specific metrics for assessing glycemic variability were proposed, such as the SD of mean glucose level and associated coefficient of variation, and time in target glucose range to guide study designs, therapy and allow people with diabetes more transparency in interpreting their own CGM data. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) and real-world evidence provide complementary information about the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of interventions. Insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) has a longer lasting and less variable action than insulin glargine U100 (Gla-100) with a lower risk of hypoglycemia. While insulin degludec U100 (iDeg-100) was associated with lower glucose values but more time below range in one randomized study compared with Gla-300, Gla-300 was associated with a higher per cent time in range, but also above the therapeutic range. However, a real-world study did not find differences during the day between Gla-300 and iDeg-100. The upcoming InRange RCT is the first head-to-head comparison of Gla-300 with iDeg-100 using CGM in an international population using CGM metrics as the primary endpoint. The non-interventional COMET-T real-world study will determine the real-world effectiveness of Gla-300 using CGM metrics and cover a broad spectrum of clinical practice decisions irrespective of the prior basal insulin.

Glycemic control after switching to faster aspart in adults with type 1 diabetes

AIMS

Post-prandial hyperglycemia remains an unmet need in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D). In randomized trials, faster insulin aspart (FIA) showed modest but significant reductions of glycemic spikes after meals. Whether such benefit is evident in routine clinical practice is unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed data of patients with T1D at the time they switched from a prior bolus insulin to FIA and at the first available follow-up. The primary endpoint was the change in the time spent in hyperglycemia > 250 mg/dl during daytime from flash glucose monitoring (FGM). Secondary outcomes included the change in HbA1c, body weight, insulin dose and other FGM metrics.

RESULTS

We included 117 patients with T1D on multiple daily injections who switched to FIA, 57 of whom had data from FGM. Patients were 41-year-old, 51.3% men, with 19.3 years diabetes duration and a baseline HbA1c of 7.7% (60 mmol/mol). Mean observation time was 4.3 months. After switching to FIA, HbA1c declined by 0.1% (1 mmol/mol) only in patients with baseline HbA1c > 7.0% (53 mmol/mol). Time spent in hyperglycemia > 250 mg/dl during daytime was significantly reduced from 14.8 to 11.9% (p = 0.006). Time in range improved from 48.3 to 51.0% (p = 0.028). Results were consistent across various patient characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Under routine care, patients with T1D who switched to FIA experienced a reduction in the time spent in hyperglycemia > 250 mg/dl during daytime and an increase in time in range. These improvements may be due to better control of post-prandial hyperglycemia, as observed in trials.

Glycaemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with dulaglutide, with and without concomitant insulin: Post hoc analyses of randomized clinical trials

AIM

To investigate the association between treatment with dulaglutide and glycaemic variability (GV) in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Post hoc analyses of six randomized, phase 3 studies were conducted to investigate the association between treatment with dulaglutide 1.5 mg once weekly and GV in adult patients with T2D. Using data from seven- and eight-point self-monitored plasma glucose (SMPG) profiles over up to 28 weeks of treatment, GV in within- and between-day SMPG, and between-day fasting glucose from SMPG (FSMPG) was assessed according to standard deviation and coefficient of variation.

RESULTS

Pooled data from five studies with dulaglutide as monotherapy or added to oral glucose-lowering medication, without concomitant insulin treatment, revealed clinically meaningful reductions in within- and between-day SMPG, and between-day FSMPG variability from baseline in the dulaglutide group. Comparisons between treatment groups in two studies demonstrated that reductions from baseline in within-day and between-day SMPG, and between-day FSMPG variability were greater for treatment with dulaglutide compared with insulin glargine, as well as for treatment with dulaglutide when added to insulin glargine compared with insulin glargine alone.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with T2D, treatment with dulaglutide as monotherapy or added to oral glucose-lowering medication, without concomitant insulin treatment, was potentially associated with a reduction in GV. Treatment with dulaglutide was associated with a reduction in GV to a greater degree than insulin glargine. When added to insulin glargine, treatment with dulaglutide was associated with greater decreases in GV compared with insulin glargine alone. As reduced GV may be associated with better outcomes, these findings may have clinical relevance.

Augmented duodenal levels of sodium/glucose co-transporter 1 are associated with higher risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and noninvasive index of liver fibrosis

AIMS

Subjects with elevated 1 h post-load glucose concentrations (1hPG) exhibit increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and duodenal sodium/glucose co-transporter 1 (SGLT-1) levels. Herein, we evaluate whether higher SGLT-1 duodenal levels are associated with NAFLD and increased risk of advance liver fibrosis.

METHODS

SGLT-1 levels were assessed on duodenal mucosa in 52 individuals subdivided into two groups according to ultrasonography-defined presence of NAFLD. Intracellular triglycerides levels and activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were evaluated in human hepatocytes exposed to high-glucose concentration (HG).

RESULTS

Individuals with NAFLD exhibited higher duodenal SGLT-1 abundance along with raised 1hPG, as compared to those without NAFLD. The mediation analysis showed that augmented duodenal SGLT-1 levels were a predictor of NAFLD, and the link between increased duodenal SGLT-1 content and NAFLD risk was mediated by augmented 1hPG. Amongst participants with NAFLD, those with intermediate/high probability of advance liver fibrosis, estimated by NAFLD fibrosis score, exhibited higher duodenal SGLT-1 abundance and 1hPG levels as compared to the low probability group. Hepatocytes exposed to HG showed increased triglycerides accumulation and an up-regulation of ER stress pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased duodenal SGLT-1 abundance and the related early post-prandial hyperglycemia are associated with NAFLD and advance liver fibrosis.

Inhibition of SGLT1 Alleviates the Glycemic Variability-Induced Cardiac Fibrosis via Inhibition of Activation of Macrophage and Cardiac Fibroblasts

Glycemic variability has been considered one of the predictors of diabetes complications in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). In this work, we evaluated whether glycemic variability induces cardiac fibrosis through regulating cardiac fibroblast activation and macrophage polarization. Moreover, we determined whether glucose transporter sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1) plays an important role in this process. Glycemic variability-induced mice were established using DM mice (GVDM mice), and intermittent high-glucose (IHG) treatment was used to simulate glycemic variability in RAW264.7 macrophages and cardiac fibroblasts. The short hairpin RNA for SGLT1 was used to knock down SGLT1. The results showed that glycemic variability aggravated the cardiac fibrosis in GVDM mice. Additionally, glycemic variability promoted the expression of fibrogenic cytokine and the extracellular matrix proteins in left ventricular tissues and cardiac fibroblasts. GVDM mice showed a higher incidence of macrophage infiltration and M1 polarization in left ventricular tissues. Moreover, IHG-promoted RAW264.7 macrophages tended to differentiate to M1 phenotype. SGLT1 knockdown alleviated cardiac fibrosis in GVDM mice and inhibited activations of cardiac fibroblast and macrophage M1 polarization. Our results indicated that glycemic variability aggravates cardiac fibrosis through activating cardiac fibroblast and macrophage M1 polarization, which could be partially inhibited by SGLT1 knockdown.

The safety of sotagliflozin in the therapy of diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2: A meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health problem, and it has become a shocking threat in the contemporary era. The objective of this study was to analyze the safety of sotagliflozin in patients with DM systematically and intuitively.

METHODS

On November 15, 2021, literature retrieval was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane libraries. The meta-analysis results included genital mycotic infection, related-to-acidosis events, and other related adverse events, including diarrhea, severe nocturnal hypoglycemia event, and volume depletion. In addition, a subgroup analysis was also conducted based on different doses of sotagliflozin. Moreover, the patient-treated years analyzed in the study were 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and 52 weeks, respectively, for type 1 diabetes, and were 12 weeks, 22 weeks, and 52 weeks, respectively, for type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

The results of this meta-analysis illustrated that sotagliflozin could increase the risk of genital mycotic infection for patients with T1D and T2D (RR: 3.49, 95% Cl: 2.54-4.79, p < 0.001; RR: 2.83, 95% Cl: 2.04-3.93, p < 0.001; respectively). In addition, the subgroup analysis showed that the drug doses that could increase the risk of genital mycotic infection were 400 mg and 200 mg (RR: 3.63, 95% Cl: 2.46-5.36, p < 0.001; RR: 3.21, 95% Cl: 1.84-5.62, p < 0.001; respectively) in T1D. Moreover, sotagliflozin could increase the risk of events related to acidosis in the patients of T1D, including acidosis-related adverse events, positively adjudicated diabetic ketoacidosis, acidosis-related event, and diabetic ketoacidosis (RR: 7.49, 95% Cl: 3.20-17.52, p < 0.001; RR: 6.05, 95% Cl: 2.56-14.30, p < 0.001; RR: 4.83, 95% Cl: 3.13-7.45, p < 0.001; RR: 8.12, 95% Cl: 3.06-21.52, p < 0.001; respectively). In the patients of T2D, sotagliflozin could not increase the risk of DKA (RR: 1.30, 95% Cl: 0.34-4.99, p = 0.70). About serious of acidosis-related adverse events, positively adjudicated diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and acidosis-related event, the included studies were not reported for T2D patients. As for the other related adverse events, sotagliflozin was found to be a risk factor for diarrhea and volume depletion in T1D patients (RR: 1.44, 95% Cl: 1.09-1.90, p = 0.01; RR: 2.50, 95% Cl: 1.33-4.69, p < 0.01; respectively) and T2D patients (RR: 1.44, 95% Cl: 1.26-1.64, p < 0.001; RR: 1.25, 95% Cl: 1.07-1.45, p < 0.01; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed that the adverse events of sotagliflozin were tolerable to patients with DM, in terms of the incidence of genital mycotic infection, related-to-acidosis events, diarrhea, volume depletion, and severe nocturnal hypoglycemia events. In addition, the subgroup analysis of sotagliflozin dosage is considered to have great clinical significance for future guidance of sotagliflozin application in patients with DM.

Glycaemic variabilities: Key questions in pursuit of clarity

After years of intensive investigation, the definition of glycaemic variability remains unclear and the term variability in glucose homoeostasis might be more appropriate covering both short and long-term glycaemic variability. For the latter, we remain in the search of an accurate definition and related targets. Recent work leads us to consider that the within-subject variability of HbA1c calculated from consecutive determinations of HbA1c at regular time-intervals could be the most relevant index for assessing the long-term variability with a threshold value of 5% (%CV = SD of HbA1c/mean HbA1c) to separate stability from lability of HbA1c. Presently, no one can deny that short- and long-term glucose variability should be maintained within their lower ranges to limit the incidence of hypoglycaemia. Usually, therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing post-meal glucose excursions, i.e. the major contributor to daily glucose fluctuations, exert a beneficial effect on the short-term glucose variability. This explains the effectiveness of adjunct therapies with either GLP- receptor agonists or SGLT inhibitors in type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the application of a CGM device alone reduces the short-term glycaemic variability. In contrast, sophisticated insulin delivery does not necessarily lead to such reductions despite marked downward shifts of 24-hour glycaemic profiles. Such contrasting observations raise the question as to whether the prolonged wear of CGM devices is or not the major causative factor for improvement in glucose variability among intensively insulin-treated persons with type 1 diabetes.

Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter Inhibitors and Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter (SGLT) inhibitors reduce cardiovascular outcomes including mortality in several populations; however, their effect on atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) remains unclear. Our objective was to determine whether SGLT inhibitors reduce AF and whether a history of AF modifies the effect of SGLT inhibitors on the composite of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death.

Methods and Results

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL to March 2021. Pairs of reviewers identified randomized controlled trials that compared an SGLT inhibitor with placebo or no therapy. We pooled data using RevMan 5.4.1, assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane tool, and determined the overall quality of evidence using Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation. Thirty‐one eligible trials reported on AF events (75 279 participants, mean age 62 years, 35.0% women). Moderate quality evidence supported a lower risk of serious AF events with SGLT inhibitors (1.1% versus 1.5%; risk ratio 0.75 [95% CI, 0.66–0.86]; I²=0%). A similar reduction in total AF events was also noted with SGLT inhibitors. Three trials reported on heart failure hospitalization/cardiovascular death stratified by a baseline history of AF (18 832 participants, mean age 66 years, 38.1% women); in patients with a history of AF, SGLT inhibitors resulted in a lower risk in the composite of heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death (hazard ratio, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.57–0.85]; I²=0%)—similar to the effect estimate for patients without AF, P value for interaction: 1.00.

Conclusions

SGLT inhibitors may reduce AF events and likely reduce heart failure hospitalization/cardiovascular death to a similar extent in patients with and without AF.

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.

Using adjuvant pharmacotherapy in the treatment of type 1 diabetes

Introduction: Insulin and its analogues have so far been the only approved treatment for type 1 diabetes in Europe, while in the U.S. the amylin analog pramlintide is approved for adjuvant use with insulin. However, in clinical practice, various drugs against type 2 diabetes have been used off label with insulin for type 1 diabetes. Recently, the EMA approved the SGLT inhibitors dapagliflozin and sotagliflozin as adjuvant treatments to insulin for type 1 diabetes in adults.Areas covered: This article is a survey of adjuvant treatments used against type 1 diabetes, focusing on SGLT inhibitors.Expert opinion: While GLP-1R agonists and metformin may reduce weight gain associated with insulin therapy and possibly also confer non-glycemic benefits, only the SGLT inhibitors dapagliflozin and sotagliflozin have been approved in Europe as adjunctive to insulin for type 1 diabetes. Since these drugs act independently of insulin, they are very valuable additions to the armamentarium against type 1 diabetes. However, they should be used judiciously in select patients to mitigate the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients should be instructed to avoid risk situations and be taught to measure blood ketones themselves.

Effect of Dapagliflozin as an Add-on Therapy to Insulin on the Glycemic Variability in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DIVE): A Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, Randomized Study

BACKGROUND

Glycemic variability is associated with the development of diabetic complications and hypoglycemia. However, the effect of sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors on glycemic variability is controversial. We aimed to examine the effect of dapagliflozin as an add-on therapy to insulin on the glycemic variability assessed using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

In this multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized study, 84 subjects received 10 mg of dapagliflozin (n=41) or the placebo (n=43) for 12 weeks. CGM was performed before and after treatment to compare the changes in glycemic variability measures (standard deviation [SD], mean amplitude of glycemic excursions [MAGEs]).

RESULTS

At week 12, significant reductions in glycosylated hemoglobin (-0.74%±0.66% vs. 0.01%±0.65%, P<0.001), glycated albumin (-3.94%±2.55% vs. -0.67%±2.48%, P<0.001), and CGM-derived mean glucose (-41.6±39.2 mg/dL vs. 1.1±46.2 mg/dL, P<0.001) levels were observed in the dapagliflozin group compared with the placebo group. SD and MAGE were significantly decreased in the dapagliflozin group, but not in the placebo group. However, the difference in ΔSD and ΔMAGE failed to reach statistical significance between two groups. No significant differences in the incidence of safety endpoints were observed between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Dapagliflozin effectively decreased glucose levels, but not glucose variability, after 12 weeks of treatment in participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving insulin treatment. The role of SGLT2 inhibitors in glycemic variability warrants further investigations.

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.

Efficacy and safety of adding sotagliflozin, a dual sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT)1 and SGLT2 inhibitor, to optimized insulin therapy in adults with type 1 diabetes and baseline body mass index ≥ 27 kg/m2

Sotagliflozin, a dual sodium-glucose co-transporter (SGLT)1/SGLT2 inhibitor, is currently approved in Europe as an adjunct to optimal insulin therapy in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27 kg/m² . In this post hoc analysis, efficacy at 24 weeks and safety at 52 weeks from pooled phase 3 clinical trials were evaluated in patients with baseline BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² . Sotagliflozin 200 mg and 400 mg added to insulin reduced glycated haemoglobin level and increased time in range assessed by continuous glucose monitoring versus placebo and also reduced body weight and systolic blood pressure. Differences in efficacy endpoints between sotagliflozin and placebo tended to be greater among patients with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² compared to those with baseline BMI < 27 kg/m² . Consistent with published results for the entire population, fewer severe hypoglycaemia and documented hypoglycaemia ≤3.1 mmol/L events and a higher incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis occurred with sotagliflozin versus placebo in patients with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² . Sotagliflozin as an adjunct to optimized insulin therapy in overweight/obese patients with T1D addressed some unmet needs and may help achieve optimal glycaemic control, mitigating weight gain without increasing hypoglycaemia risk in this high-risk population.

Add-on therapy with dapagliflozin under full closed loop control improves time in range in adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes: The DAPADream study

AIM

To investigate the effect of the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor dapagliflozin on glucose levels overnight and during the following day after two unannounced meals under full closed loop (FCL) conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For this single-centre, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial, non-obese persons with type 1 diabetes (T1D) were studied twice (10 mg dapagliflozin bid vs. placebo) for 24 hours with two unannounced mixed meal tests 6 hours apart under FCL conditions. Primary outcome was sensor glucose time in range (TIR; 3.9-10 mmol/L). For safety evaluation, ß-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucagon, insulin and gastric inhibitory polypeptide were measured.

RESULTS

Fifteen adolescents (aged 15.4 ± 1.6 years, diabetes duration 10.0 ± 3.4 years, HbA1c 8.4% ± 0.9% [67.7 ± 10.1 mmol/mol]) and 15 young adults (aged 18.7 ± 0.8 years; diabetes duration 12.5 ± 3.6 years; HbA1c 8.3% ± 0.9% [68.5 ± 11.2 mmol/mol]) completed the trial. TIR was significantly higher in the intervention group compared with placebo (68% ± 6% vs. 50% ± 13%; P < .001); nocturnal glucose was significantly lower with dapagliflozin (6.2 ± 0.7 vs. 7.3 ± 1.7 mmol/L; P = .003) without an increase in time at less than 3.9 mmol/L (3.3% ± 6.0% vs 3.1% ± 5.2%; P = .75). Urinary glucose excretion was increased 3-fold using dapagliflozin (149 ± 42 vs. 49 ± 23 g/24 hours) with a total insulin reduction of 22% (39.7 ± 12.7 vs. 30.6 ± 10.4 U; P = .004). No abnormal elevated BHB values were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In adolescents and adults with T1D, dapagliflozin significantly increased TIR on average by 259 minutes/day while reducing glycaemic variability during FCL control without any signs of hypoglycaemia or ketosis.

Inhibition of SGLT1 protects against glycemic variability-induced cardiac damage and pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in diabetic mice

AIMS

Glycemic variability has been shown to be more harmful in the development of diabetic complication than sustained chronic hyperglycemia. In this present study, we tried to reveal the effects of glycemic variability on cardiac damage in diabetic mice and investigate whether sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1), an important cardiac glucose transporter, functions as an important mediator in the process.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) mice were induced by a high-fat diet and intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ), and then glycemic variability in type 2 diabetes mellitus (GVDM) was induced by alternately injecting insulin and glucose to DM mice. In order to determine the roles of SGLT1 in GVDM mice, SGLT1 inhibition was performed using shRNA against SGLT1. The blood glucose level, the cardiac function and myocardial injury were assessed. And the expressions of SGLT1 and the activations of NLRP3/caspase-1 pathway and NF-κB in left ventricular tissues were measured.

KEY FINDINGS

The results showed that SGLT1 was highly expressed in heart of GVDM mice compared to control and DM groups, and knockdown of SGLT1 reduced glycemic variability in GVDM mice. Moreover, glycemic variability impaired cardiac function, aggravated cardiac injury and induced NLRP3/caspase-1-mediated inflammatory response and pyroptosis. And knockdown of SGLT1 significantly attenuated the cardiac damages that induced by glycemic variability.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results indicated that glycemic variability could cause cardiac damage and induce inflammatory response and pyroptosis of cardiomyocytes in diabetic mice, which could be partially blocked by SGLT1 silence.

Effect of sotagliflozin as an adjunct to insulin therapy on blood pressure and arterial stiffness in adults with type 1 diabetes: A post hoc pooled analysis of inTandem1 and inTandem2

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effect of sotagliflozin, a dual inhibitor of sodium glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 1 and 2, on arterial stiffness in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated with sotagliflozin as adjunct to optimized insulin therapy.

METHODS

In this post hoc analysis, indirect markers of arterial stiffness, including pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and double product, were calculated using observed systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), or pulse rate at 24 weeks using data from a pooled patient population from the inTandem1 and inTandem2 randomized controlled trials (n = 1575).

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar among groups. Relative to placebo at Week 24, sotagliflozin 200 mg and 400 mg reduced SBP by 2.03 mm Hg (95% CI -3.30 to -0.75; p = 0.0019) and 2.85 mm Hg (-4.12 to -1.57; p < 0.0001), respectively. DBP decreased by 1.1 and 0.9 mm Hg, MAP by 1.4 and 1.6 mm Hg, and double product by 202.5 and 221.1 bpm × mm Hg, respectively (p < 0.05 for all). No increases in heart rate were observed.

CONCLUSION

In adults with T1D, adding sotagliflozin to insulin significantly reduced blood pressure and other markers of arterial stiffness and vascular resistance.

[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.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis and Related Events With Sotagliflozin Added to Insulin in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Pooled Analysis of the inTandem 1 and 2 Studies

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence and risk factors for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and related adverse events (AEs) in adults with type 1 diabetes treated with sotagliflozin adjunctive to insulin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data from two identically designed, 52-week, randomized studies were pooled and analyzed for DKA, changes in β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), and percentage of patients with BHB >0.6 and >1.5 mmol/L. The patients were administered placebo, sotagliflozin 200 mg, or sotagliflozin 400 mg once daily.

RESULTS

A total of 191 ketosis-related AEs were reported, and 98 underwent adjudication. Of these, 37 events (36 patients) were adjudicated as DKA, with an exposure-adjusted incidence rate of 0.2, 3.1, and 4.2 events per 100 patient-years for placebo, sotagliflozin 200 mg, and sotagliflozin 400 mg, respectively. No patient died of a DKA event. From a baseline BHB of ∼0.13 mmol/L, sotagliflozin treatment led to a small median increase over 52 weeks (≤0.05 mmol/L at all time points). Of sotagliflozin-treated patients, approximately 47% and 7% had ≥1 BHB measurement >0.6 mmol/L and >1.5 mmol/L, respectively (vs. 20% and 2%, respectively, of placebo-treated patients). Subsequent to the implementation of a risk mitigation plan, annualized DKA incidence was lower versus preimplementation in both the sotagliflozin 200 and 400 mg groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 1 diabetes, confirmed DKA incidence increased when sotagliflozin was added to insulin compared with insulin alone. A lower incidence of DKA was observed following the implementation of an enhanced risk mitigation plan, suggesting that this risk can be managed with patient education.

SGLT2 inhibitors, an accomplished development in field of medicinal chemistry: an extensive review

Diabetes is a chronic progressive metabolic disease caused by insulin deficiency or insulin resistance. In spite of the availability of several antihyperglycaemics, there is a need for the development of safer antidiabetic drugs due to their undesirable effects. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors are a class of antidiabetics, which hinder the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, causing excretion of glucose via urine. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors are a well-tolerated class with no significant adverse effects and are found to be favorable in certain conditions, which may be rudimentary to cardiovascular and renal diseases. The current advancements in their design and development, their mechanism of action, structure–activity relationship, synthesis and in silico development along with their auxiliary roles have been extensively reviewed.

Role of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibition to mitigate diabetic kidney disease risk in type 1 diabetes

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a common complication of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and a major risk factor for premature death from cardiovascular disease (CVD). Current treatments, such as control of hyperglycaemia and hypertension, are beneficial, but only partially protect against DKD. Finding new, safe and effective therapies to halt nephropathy progression has proven to be challenging. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have demonstrated, in addition to glycaemic lowering, impressive protection against DKD and CVD progression in people with type 2 diabetes. Although these beneficial cardiorenal effects may also apply to people with T1D, supporting data are lacking. Furthermore, the increased rates of euglycaemic diabetic ketoacidosis may limit the use of this class in people with T1D. In this review we highlight the pathophysiology of DKD in T1D and the unmet need that exists. We further detail the beneficial and adverse effects of SGLT2 inhibitors based on their mechanism of action. Finally, we balance the effects in people with T1D and indicate future lines of research.

Critical Reappraisal of the Time-in-Range: Alternative or Useful Addition to Glycated Hemoglobin?

The HbA1c value is a well-established parameter used to characterize glucose control. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)-derived parameters calculated using daily glucose profiles such as Time-in-Range (TiR) have increasingly been gaining interest for assessing a patient's current therapy. The question has arisen as to whether TiR could replace HbA1c? Because TiR focuses on the current quality of glucose control during a minimum of 10 to 14 days of CGM use and reflects the variability of glucose concentrations. Time-in-Range could be considered an attractive option for improving diabetes control in patients with diabetes. Due to the lack of established standards for glucose measurements with CGM systems, results from different CGM systems can deviate from each other. Time-in-Range should not be viewed as a replacement for HbA1c, but should be used to deliver valuable additional information.

A pilot study of the feasibility of empagliflozin in recent-onset type 1 diabetes

Introduction

Sodium-glucose linked transporter (SGLT) inhibitors could improve glycaemia and simplify insulin regimens in recent-onset type 1 diabetes (T1D), provided they were well-tolerated and safe. This study aimed to determine the feasibility and safety of a SGLT inhibitor for the treatment of recent-onset T1D.

Method

An open label, prospective pilot study in adults with recent-onset T1D was performed. Empagliflozin, 25 mg orally daily, was given in combination with insulin and multidisciplinary care during a 24-week treatment phase, followed by wash-out visits at weeks 30 and 36.

Results

Fourteen participants (4 women; median age 26 years) began and 13 completed the study. No treatment-emergent serious adverse events were observed, with fatigue and genital infection the most common side-effects. Four participants stopped mealtime insulin for at least one month when taking empagliflozin. At week 24, median weight, HbA1c and insulin dose decreased by 4.4 kg, 1.5% (17 mmol/mol) and 0.03 units/kg/day, respectively. Meal-stimulated C-peptide was maintained during the treatment phase and then decreased at 36 weeks.

Conclusions

Treatment of adults with empagliflozin within 100 days of T1D diagnosis appeared safe and was associated with improved clinical outcomes. These findings justify a definitive trial to determine if SGLT inhibitors simplify treatment regimens and improve clinical outcomes in recent-onset T1D.

Registration

ACTRN12617000016336.

Efficacy and safety of sotagliflozin adjuvant therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of sotagliflozin (SOTA) adjuvant therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

METHODS

Through April 2019, the Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were electronically searched to identify randomized controlled trials exploring SOTA adjuvant therapy for T1DM. Strict screening and quality evaluations of the obtained literature were performed independently by 2 researchers. Outcome indexes were extracted, and a meta-analysis of the data was performed using Revman 5.3 software.

RESULTS

A total of 7 randomized controlled trials were included. The meta-analysis results showed that compared with the patients in the placebo group, the patients in the SOTA group had a lower hemoglobin A1c (mean difference [MD] = -0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-0.34, -0.22], P < .01), lower total daily insulin use (MD = -8.89, 95% CI [-11.64, -6.13], P < .01), faster weight loss (MD = -3.03, 95% CI [-3.79, -2.26], P < .01), better fasting blood glucose and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose control (MD = -0.75, 95% CI [-1.04, -0.45], P < .01; MD = -2.42, 95% CI [-3.17, -1.67], P < .01), and a higher rate of well-controlled glucose levels (relative risk = 1.75, 95% CI [1.55, 1.99], P < .01), while no significant difference in the incidence of severe hypoglycemic events was found between the SOTA and placebo groups (risk difference [RD] = -0.01, 95% CI [-0.02, 0.00], P = .13). The incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis was higher in the SOTA group than in the placebo group (RD = 0.03, 95% CI [0.02, 0.04], P < .01). The incidence of genital mycotic infection was higher in the SOTA group than in the placebo group (RD = 0.06, 95% CI [0.05, 0.08], P < .01). No significant difference in the incidence of urinary tract infections was detected between the SOTA group and the placebo group (RD = 0.00, 95% CI [-0.01, 0.01], P = 0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

SOTA is a potential drug for the treatment of T1DM and is effective for controlling blood sugar. The main adverse reactions to SOTA are genital mycotic infections and diabetic ketoacidosis. We must further assess the severity of diabetic ketoacidosis caused by SOTA.

Sotagliflozin: A Review in Type 1 Diabetes

Sotagliflozin (Zynquista™) is the first dual inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporter-1 and -2 (SGLT1 and 2). In the phase 3, inTANDEM 1-3 trials, adjunctive use of oral sotagliflozin (200 mg or 400 mg once daily) improved glycaemic control and reduced bodyweight and insulin requirements relative to placebo over 24 weeks of treatment in adults whose type 1 diabetes (T1D) was inadequately controlled by insulin therapy. Similar benefits were seen with the drug in patients who were overweight/obese [i.e. body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27 kg/m²] in inTANDEM 1 and 2 (pooled). The benefits of sotagliflozin were largely maintained over 52 weeks of treatment. Overall, use of sotagliflozin in this setting is generally well tolerated and reduces, or at least does not increase, the likelihood of hypoglycaemia; however, as with other SGLT inhibitors, sotagliflozin carries a risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). On the basis of its risk/benefit profile, sotagliflozin is indicated in the EU as an adjunct to insulin in adults with T1D with a BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² who have failed to achieve adequate glycaemic control despite optimal insulin therapy, thus expanding the currently limited adjunctive oral treatment options available for use in this population.

Improved glycaemic variability and time in range with dapagliflozin versus gliclazide modified release among adults with type 2 diabetes, evaluated by continuous glucose monitoring: A 12-week randomized controlled trial

AIMS

To evaluate whether there is a difference between the effects of dapagliflozin and gliclazide modified release (MR) on glycaemic variability (GV) and glycaemic control, as assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), in individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This randomized, open-label, active-controlled study was conducted in individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes who were drug-naïve or on steady-dose metformin monotherapy. Participants were treated once daily with 10 mg dapagliflozin or 120 mg gliclazide MR. CGM and GV index calculations were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks.

RESULTS

In total, 97 participants (age 57.9 ± 8.7 years, 50.5% men, baseline glycated haemoglobin 63 ± 9.8 mmol/mol [7.9 ± 0.9%]) were randomized, and 94 completed the 12-week protocol. Intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses showed that the reduction in GV, as measured by the mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions, was superior in the dapagliflozin group versus the gliclazide MR group (-0.9 mmol/L [95% CI -1.5, -0.4] vs -0.2 mmol/L [95% CI -0.6, 0.3]; P = 0.030 [ITT]). The reductions in GV estimated by the coefficient of variation and SD were greater in the dapagliflozin group. Moreover, dapagliflozin increased the glucose time in range (TIR; 3.9-10 mmol/L) by 24.9% (95% CI 18.6, 31.2) vs. 17.4% (95% CI 11.6, 23.3) in the gliclazide MR group (P = 0.089 [ITT]; P = 0.041 [PP]).

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin improved GV and increased TIR more efficiently than gliclazide MR in individuals with type 2 diabetes over 12 weeks, as demonstrated by CGM.

Sotagliflozin Decreases Postprandial Glucose and Insulin Concentrations by Delaying Intestinal Glucose Absorption

CONTEXT

The effect of sotagliflozin (a dual sodium-glucose cotransporter [SGLT] 2 and SGLT1 inhibitor) on intestinal glucose absorption has not been investigated in humans.

OBJECTIVE

To measure rate of appearance of oral glucose (RaO) using a dual glucose tracer method following standardized mixed meals taken after single sotagliflozin or canagliflozin doses.

SETTING

Clinical research organization.

DESIGN AND PARTICIPANTS

In a double-blind, 3-period crossover study (NCT01916863), 24 healthy participants were randomized to 2 cohorts of 12 participants. Within each cohort, participants were randomly assigned single oral doses of either sotagliflozin 400 mg, canagliflozin 300 mg, or placebo on each of test days 1, 8, and 15. On test days, Cohort 1 had breakfast containing [6,6-2H2] glucose 0.25 hours postdose and lunch containing [1-2H1] glucose 5.25 hours postdose; Cohort 2 had breakfast containing no labeled glucose 0.25 hours postdose and lunch containing [6,6-2H2] glucose 4.25 hours postdose. All participants received a 10- to 15-hour continuous [U-13C6] glucose infusion starting 5 hours before their first [6,6-2H2] glucose-containing meal.

MAIN OUTCOME

RaO, postprandial glucose (PPG), and postprandial insulin.

RESULTS

Sotagliflozin and canagliflozin decreased area under the curve (AUC)0-1 hour and/or AUC0-2 hours for RaO, PPG, and insulin after breakfast and/or the 4.25-hour postdose lunch (P < .05 versus placebo). After the 5.25-hour postdose lunch, sotagliflozin lowered RaO AUC0-1 hour and PPG AUC0-5 hours versus both placebo and canagliflozin (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sotagliflozin delayed and blunted intestinal glucose absorption after meals, resulting in lower PPG and insulin levels, likely due to prolonged local inhibition of intestinal SGLT1 that persisted for ≥5 hours after dosing.

Optimising the Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors for Type 1 Diabetes

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor clinical studies in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) have demonstrated reduced HbA1c and lower glucose variability with increased time in optimal glucose range as well as additional benefits of reductions in weight and insulin dose without increasing the incidence of hypoglycaemia. However, the appropriate use of SGLT2 inhibitor therapies within clinical practise to treat people with T1DM remains unclear. In this article we have used consensus expert opinion alongside the available evidence, product indication and most recent clinical guidance to provide support for the diabetes healthcare community regarding the appropriate use of SGLT2 inhibitors, focussing on specific considerations for appropriate prescribing of dapagliflozin within the T1DM management pathway. Its purpose is to provide awareness of the issues surrounding treatment with dapagliflozin in T1DM as well as offer practical guidance that also includes a checklist tool for appropriate dapagliflozin prescribing. The checklist aims to support clinicians in identifying those people with T1DM most likely to benefit from dapagliflozin treatment as well as situations where caution may be required.Funding: AstraZeneca UK Ltd.

SGLT inhibitors in type 1 diabetes: weighing efficacy and side effects

Even before sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors (SGLTi) became popular agents for the treatment of people with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), clinicians had explored their potential as adjunct therapies in type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Several trials have demonstrated improved glycemic control (compared with placebo) and a decrease in glucose variability with a clinically relevant increase of time in range. In addition, weight loss and decreased systolic blood pressure are observed. The magnitude of the effects observed depends on the type of SGLTi, the dose administrated, and the duration of observation in the studies. As seen in T2DM, there was an increase in the risk of urogenital mycotic infections, but no increase in the risk of severe hypoglycemia. However, concerns arose regarding an increase in incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis. Mitigation strategies, including careful patient selection, extensive education of patients and (para)medical personnel, adequate insulin dose titration, and the adoption of a ketone-centered approach, are suggested. In different areas of the world, SGLTi are approved for use in T1DM with restrictions concerning patient selection and SGLTi dose. Real-world data on the effect of introduction of SGLTi in people with T1DM will yield insight on the robustness of glycemic effects over time, and allow us to determine whether the positive risk-benefit profile observed in clinical trials can be translated to the real world.

Sotagliflozin: First Global Approval

Sotagliflozin (Zynquista™) is a dual inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporters (SGLT) 1 and 2 being developed by Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi as a treatment for type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The drug has a dual action, blunting and delaying absorption of glucose from the gastrointestinal tract and the reabsorption of glucose in the proximal tubule of the kidney, respectively. In the phase III inTandem clinical trial program in patients with T1DM, sotagliflozin as an adjunct to optimised insulin therapy produced a clinically meaningful reduction in HbA_1c levels, but was associated with a higher incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis than placebo. Sotagliflozin was recently approved for use as an adjunct to insulin in T1DM in the EU. However, the FDA Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee was divided, citing concerns regarding diabetic ketoacidosis, leading the FDA to issue an Complete Response Letter for this indication in the USA. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of sotagliflozin leading to this first approval in the EU as an adjunct to insulin in patients with T1DM with a body mass index ≥ 27 kg/m² who have failed to achieve adequate glycaemic control despite optimal insulin therapy.

A comparison of sotagliflozin therapy for diabetes mellitus between week 24 with week 52 : A protocol for mixed treatment comparisons meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

According to the centers for disease control and prevention, 14% of American adults have diabetes - 10% know it, and more than 4% go undiagnosed. Sotagliflozin is a new type of diabetes drug This study is to compare the efficacy of Sotagliflozin therapy for Diabetes Mellitus (DM) between week 24 with week 52.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Through to October 2019, Web of Science, PubMed Database, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Clinical Trials and CNKI will be searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring SOTA therapy for DM. Strict screening and quality evaluation will be performed on the obtained literature independently by 2 researchers; outcome indexes will be extracted. The bias risk of the included studies will be evaluated based on Cochrane assessment tool. Meta-analysis will be performed on the data using Revman 5.3 software. We will provide practical and targeted results assessing the lost efficacy of SOTA therapy for DM from week 24 to week 52, to provide reference for clinicians.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The stronger evidence about the lost efficacy of SOTA for DM from week 24 to week 52 will be provided for clinicians.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42019133027.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS OF THIS STUDY

Whether the efficacy of SOTA could last for a long time is still inconclusive, high quality research is still lacking, and this study attempts to explore this issue; The efficacy of SOTA at different times will be compared by direct comparisons and indirect comparisons, this can lead to more accurate and reliable results; The quality of the included literatures are uneven, and some data might be estimated by calculation, which may affect the quality of this study.

Dose-dependent glycometabolic effects of sotagliflozin on type 1 diabetes over 12 weeks: The inTandem4 trial

AIMS

To assess the dose-related effects of sotagliflozin, a novel dual inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporters-1 and -2, in type 1 diabetes (T1D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this 12-week, multicentre, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled dose-ranging trial, adults with T1D were randomized to once-daily placebo (n = 36) or sotagliflozin 75 mg (n = 35), 200 mg (n = 35) or 400 mg (n = 35). Insulin was maintained at baseline doses. The primary endpoint was least squares mean (LSM) change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline. Other endpoints included proportion of participants with ≥0.5% HbA1c reduction and assessments of 2-hour postprandial glucose (PPG), weight, and urinary glucose excretion (UGE).

RESULTS

From a mean baseline of 8.0% ± 0.8% (full study population), placebo-adjusted LSM HbA1c decreased by 0.3% (P = .07), 0.5% (P < .001) and 0.4% (P = .006) with sotagliflozin 75 mg, 200 mg and 400 mg, respectively, at week 12. In the placebo and sotagliflozin 75 mg, 200 mg and 400 mg groups, 33.3%, 37.1%, 80.0% and 65.7% of participants achieved an HbA1c reduction ≥0.5%. Placebo-adjusted PPG decreased by 22.2 mg/dL (P = .28), 28.7 mg/dL (P = .16) and 50.2 mg/dL (P = .013), UGE increased by 41.8 g/d (P = .006), 57.7 g/d (P < .001) and 70.5 g/d (P < .001), and weight decreased by 1.3 kg (P = .038), 2.4 kg (P < .001) and 2.6 kg (P < .001) with sotagliflozin 75 mg, 200 mg and 400 mg, respectively. One case of severe hypoglycaemia occurred in each sotagliflozin group and one case of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurred with sotagliflozin 400 mg.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined with stable insulin doses, sotagliflozin 200 mg and 400 mg improved glycaemic control and weight in adults with T1D. Sotagliflozin 400 mg reduced PPG levels. UGE increased with all sotagliflozin doses. Rates of severe hypoglycaemia and DKA were low (NCT02459899).

Sotagliflozin Added to Optimized Insulin Therapy Leads to Lower Rates of Clinically Relevant Hypoglycemic Events at Any HbA1c at 52 Weeks in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Background: Hypoglycemia rates usually increase when insulin treatment is intensified to improve glycemic control. We evaluated (post hoc) hypoglycemic rates in adult patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) on sotagliflozin (a dual sodium-glucose cotransporter [SGLT] 1 and 2 inhibitor) in two phase 3, 52-week clinical trials (inTandem 1 and 2; NCT02384941 and NCT02421510). Materials and Methods: We analyzed rates of documented hypoglycemia (level 1, blood glucose ≥54 to <70 mg/dL) and clinically important hypoglycemia (level 2, glucose <54 mg/dL) in a patient-level pooled analysis (n = 1362) using a negative binomial model adjusted for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) at 52 weeks in patients receiving placebo, sotagliflozin 200 mg, and sotagliflozin 400 mg. Results: Rates of level 1 hypoglycemia events per patient-year were 58.25 (95% confidence interval: 50.26-67.50) with placebo, 44.86 (38.83-51.82; P = 0.0138 vs. placebo) with sotagliflozin 200 mg, and 45.68 (39.52-52.81; P = 0.0220) with sotagliflozin 400 mg. Sotagliflozin was also associated with lower rates of level 2 hypoglycemia: 15.95 (14.37-17.70), 11.51 (10.39-12.76; P < 0.0001), and 11.13 (10.03-12.35; P < 0.0001) for placebo and sotagliflozin 200 and 400 mg, respectively. The difference in rates of hypoglycemia with sotagliflozin versus placebo became more pronounced as HbA1c decreased. Conclusions: At week 52, level 1 and 2 hypoglycemia events were 22% to 30% less frequent with sotagliflozin added to optimized insulin therapy versus placebo in adults with T1D at any HbA1c level, with greater differences at lower HbA1c values. These findings support the use of sotagliflozin as an insulin adjunct in T1D.

An update of SGLT1 and SGLT2 inhibitors in early phase diabetes-type 2 clinical trials

Introduction: More than 424 million adults have diabetes mellitus (DM). This number is expected to increase to 626 million by 2045. The majority (90-95%) of people with DM has type 2-diabetes (T2DM). The continued prevalence of DM and associated complications has prompted investigators to find new therapies. One of the most recent additions to the anti-diabetic armamentarium are inhibitors of sodium-glucose co-transporters 1 and 2 (SGLT1, SGLT2). Areas covered: The authors review the status of SGLT2 inhibitors for the treatment of T2DM and place an emphasis on those agents in early phase clinical trials. Data and information were retrieved from American Diabetes Association, Diabetes UK, ClinicalTrials.gov, PubMed, and Scopus websites. The keywords used in the search were T2DM, SGLT1, SGLT2, and clinical trials. Expert opinion: The benefits of SGLT inhibitors include reductions in serum glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight, blood pressure and cardiovascular and renal events. However, SGLT inhibitors increase the risk of genitourinary tract infections, diabetic ketoacidosis, and bone fractures. The development of SGLT inhibitors with fewer side effects and as combination therapies are the key to maximizing the therapeutic effects of this important class of anti-diabetic drug.

Effectiveness and safety of sotagliflozin adjuvant therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus: A protocol for Systematic review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) has long required insulin treatment. Sotagliflflozin (SOTA), as a dual SGLT-1/2 inhibitor, has the potential to be the first oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) to be approved for T1DM in the US market. It is important to evaluate the effectiveness of SOTA for T1DM.

METHODS

Web of Science, PubMed datebase, Cochrane Library, Embase, Clinical Trials, and CNKI will be searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring SOTA adjuvant therapy for T1DM. Strict screening and quality evaluation will be performed on the obtained literature independently by 2 researchers; outcome indexes will be extracted. The bias risk of the included studies will be evaluated based on Cochrane assessment tool. Meta-analysis will be performed on the data using Revman 5.3 software.

RESULT

We will provide practical and targeted results assessing the efficacy and safety of SOTA for T1DM patients, to provide reference for clinical use of SOTA.

CONCLUSION

The stronger evidence about the efficacy and safety of SOTA for T1DM patients will be provided for clinicians.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

PROSPERO CRD42019133099.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporters as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: An Update on Phase 3 Clinical Trial Data

Objective: To review phase 3 trials of sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) inhibitors in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. Data Sources: A literature search of Ovid MEDLINE databases (1946 through May 17, 2019) limited to English-language human clinical trials was conducted using the following terms: sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, sotagliflozin, ertugliflozin, ipragliflozin, or remogliflozin combined with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Results were verified via Google Scholar and clinicaltrials.gov. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles were included if they were phase 3 trials in adults with T1DM. Data Synthesis: Phase 3 trials are available for dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, and sotagliflozin. All 3 drugs demonstrated statistically significant reductions in hemoglobin A1C, weight, and total daily insulin dose without an increased risk of hypoglycemia in up to 52 weeks of therapy. The incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) was higher in patients on a SGLT inhibitor at all doses, with the exception of empagliflozin 2.5 mg (0.8% vs 1.2% with placebo). Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: SGLT inhibitors are potential adjuncts to insulin in T1DM patients, providing clinically meaningful benefits. Regulatory bodies have either approved or are reviewing these agents for use in T1DM. Clinicians should be familiar with the DKA risk associated with SGLT inhibitors and utilize DKA risk-mitigation strategies. Empagliflozin 2.5 mg warrants additional investigation given its efficacy without an increased incidence of DKA. Conclusions: Phase 3 trial data of SGLT inhibitors provide evidence for sustained efficacy in T1DM patients. Appropriate patient selection for therapy and routine monitoring are essential to minimize associated risks.

A View Beyond HbA1c: Role of Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) is used as an index of average blood glucose measurement over a period of months and is a mainstay of blood glucose monitoring. This metric is easy to measure and relatively inexpensive to obtain, and it predicts diabetes-related microvascular complications. However, HbA1c provides only an approximate measure of glucose control; it does not address short-term glycemic variability (GV) or hypoglycemic events. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a tool which helps clinicians and people with diabetes to overcome the limitations of HbA1c in diabetes management. Time spent in the glycemic target range and time spent in hypoglycemia are the main CGM metrics that provide a more personalized approach to diabetes management. Moreover, the glucose management indicator (GMI), which calculates an approximate HbA1c level based on the average CGM-driven glucose level, facilitates individual decision-making when the laboratory-measured HbA1c and estimated HbA1c are discordant. GV, on the other hand, is a measure of swings in blood glucose levels over hours or days and may contribute to diabetes-related complications. In addition, addressing GV is a major challenge during the optimization of glycemia. The degree of GV is associated with the frequency, duration, and severity of the hypoglycemic events. Many factors affect GV in a patient, including lifestyle, diet, the presence of comorbidities, and diabetes therapy. Recent evidence supports the use of some glucose-lowering agents to improve GV, such as the new ultra-long acting insulin analogs, as these agents have a smoother pharmacodynamic profile and improve glycemic control with fewer fluctuations and fewer nocturnal hypoglycemic events. These newer glucose-lowering agents (such as incretin hormones or sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors) can also reduce the degree of GV. However, randomized trials are needed to evaluate the effect of GV on important diabetes outcomes. In this review, we discuss the role of HbA1c as a measure of glycemic control and its limitations. We also explore additional glycemic metrics, with a focus on time (duration) in glucose target range, time (duration) in hypoglycemia, GV, GMI, and their correlation with clinical outcomes.

A review of sotagliflozin for use in type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a challenging disease that is largely managed with the use of insulin. The risk of hypoglycemia, side effects of weight gain, and high glucose variability associated with insulin use have prompted researchers to explore additional therapies to treat this condition. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of medications that lower glucose in type 2 diabetes patients independent of insulin action, and have been studied for use in the type 1 diabetes population. Sotagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor that demonstrates a unique binding affinity for the SGLT1 receptor. A total of three phase III clinical trials (inTandem1, inTandem2, and inTandem3) were conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sotagliflozin in type 1 diabetes. A modest hemoglobin A1C reduction of 0.3-0.4% was observed, with secondary benefits of reduced glucose variability, reduced insulin dosage, and positive weight loss effects. Overall there was a reduction in the risk of severe hypoglycemia with sotagliflozin, but a higher rate of ketone formation and risk of diabetic ketoacidosis was observed, along with increased mycotic infections and volume depletion effects.