Long-term efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors as add-on to metformin treatment in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis

Comparative Effectiveness of Antidiabetic Drugs as an Additional Therapy to Metformin in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Metabolic Approaches

Background

Metformin is commonly prescribed to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients, but in some cases, it may not be effective even at high doses or may cause intolerable side effects. Therefore, recent studies have examined the impact of combining metformin with other antidiabetic medications.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase up to 30 June 2023. All interventional studies that assessed the efficacy of different antidiabetic agents were included.

Results

Among the 3488 records found in the primary search, 16 papers were included. Our study showed that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) had the most significant impact on glycemic profile, while thiazolidinediones (TZDs) had the most influence on lipid levels. However, it was observed that patients taking only metformin experienced a greater increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs) effectively modified various anthropometric measurements, such as weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. The effects of different antidiabetic drugs on hormone levels were inconclusive, although testosterone levels were more affected by GLP1RA, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), and TZDs. None of the combined therapies showed a significant change in blood pressure.

Conclusion

Since PCOS is a metabolic disorder, choosing the best combination of antidiabetic drugs in the clinical course of PCOS patients will be very important. Today, it seems that we need a new metabolic approach for better treatment of the metabolic aspects of these patients.

Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiac function and health status in chronic heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Numerous clinical studies have explored sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF), with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and SGLT2i were proved to significantly reduce CHF hospitalization, cardiovascular death, cardiovascular mortality, all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction in patients with or without T2DM. However, only a limited few have investigated the effects of SGLT-2i on HF disease-specific health status and cardiac function. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effects of SGLT2i on disease-specific health status and cardiac function in CHF patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted of trials by searching in PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science, and two Chinese databases (CNKI and Wanfang), Clinical Trials ( http://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov ) were also searched.

RESULTS

A total of 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 23,953 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The effects of SGLT2 inhibitors were compared with control or placebo groups in CHF with or without T2DM. The SGLT2 inhibitors group exhibited a significant reduction in pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels by 136.03 pg/ml (95% confidence interval [CI]: -253.36, - 18.70; P = 0.02). Additionally, a greater proportion of patients in the SGLT2 inhibitors group showed a ≥ 20% decrease in NT-proBNP (RR = 1.45, 95% CI [0.92, 2.29], p = 0.072). However, no statistically significant difference was observed for the effects on B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). The use of SGLT-2 inhibitors led to a noteworthy improvement in LVEF by 2.79% (95% CI [0.18, 5.39];P = 0.036). In terms of health status, as assessed by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) and 6-minute walk distance, SGLT2 inhibitors led to a significant improvement in KCCQ clinical summary (KCCQ-CS) score (WMD = 1.7, 95% CI [1.67, 1.73], P < 0.00001), KCCQ overall summary (KCCQ-OS) score (WMD = 1.73, 95% CI [0.94, 2.52], P < 0.00001), and KCCQ total symptom (KCCQ-TS) score (WMD = 2.88, 95% CI [1.7, 4.06], P < 0.00001). Furthermore, the occurrence of KCCQ-CS and KCCQ-OS score increases ≥ 5 points had relative risks (RR) of 1.25 (95% CI [1.11, 1.42], P < 0.00001) and 1.15 (95% CI [1.09, 1.22], P < 0.00001), respectively. Overall, SGLT2 inhibitors increased the 6-minute walk distance by 23.98 m (95% CI [8.34, 39.62]; P = 0.003) compared to control/placebo from baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

The SGLT2 inhibitors treatment offers an effective strategy for improving NT-proBNP levels, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire scores and 6-minute walk distance in CHF with or without T2DM. These findings indicate that SGLT2i improve cardiac function and health status in CHF with or without T2DM, and provide valuable guidance for clinicians making treatment decisions for patients with CHF.

Association of SGLT-2 inhibitors with bacterial urinary tract infection in type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the factors associated with UTI in patients with T2D whether being treated with SGLT-2i or not.

METHODS

Adult patients with T2D, whose urine culture results were available, were analyzed retrospectively. Urine culture was obtained from mid-flow urine. Antibacterial treatment was given to the patients with UTI, which was defined by positive urine cultures and/or clinical findings. We grouped the patients as follows: Group A, those treated with SGLT-2i; and Group B, those not treated with SGLT-2i.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients were included. Median age was 56 (45-67), 56.4% (n = 57) of the patients were female. Urine culture was positive in 54.9% (n = 28) and 16% (n = 8) of Group A (n = 51) and Group B (n = 50), respectively. Of those for whom urine culture was positive, Escherichia coli was isolated in 83.3% (n = 30), and both Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K.pneumoniae) were isolated in 16.7% (n = 6). Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated only from Group A. The need for and duration of hospitalization were higher in Group A (p < 0.001). UTI was detected in 60 patients. ROC analysis showed that a HbA1c of > 5.8% was associated with UTI with good accuracy (AUC: 0.835, p < 0.001). In multiple logistic regression analysis, SGLT-2i use and glucosuria were positive predictors for UTI (p = 0.004, Odds Ratio: 1984.013; and p = 0.028, and Odds Ratio: 12.480, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Besides the association of HbA1c and BMI with UTI, SGLT-2i use and glucosuria predicted UTI. Urine culture is important with respect to the choice of antibacterial treatment, especially in those patients under SGLT-2i treatment. The effect of SGLT-2i on the development of UTI is independent of baseline BMI score or HbA1c.

The use of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists versus sulfonylureas and the risk of lower limb amputations: a nation-wide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have investigated the potential association of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2-Is) with an increased risk of lower limb amputations (LLAs), but have produced conflicting results. Particularly studies comparing SGLT2-Is to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) seem to find a higher LLA risk with SGLT2-I use. This raises the question whether the results are driven by a protective GLP1-RA-effect rather than a harmful SGLT2-I-effect. GLP1-RAs could promote wound healing and therefore reduce the risk of LLAs, but the associations between both drug classes and LLA remain uncertain. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to investigate the risk of LLA and diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) with SGLT2-I use and GLP1-RA use versus sulfonylurea use.

METHODS

A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted using data from the Danish National Health Service (2013-2018). The study population (N = 74,475) consisted of type 2 diabetes patients aged 18 + who received a first ever prescription of an SGLT2-I, GLP1-RA or sulfonylurea. The date of the first prescription defined the start of follow-up. Time-varying Cox proportional hazards models estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) of LLA and DFU with current SGLT2-I use and GLP1-RA use versus current SU use. The models were adjusted for age, sex, socio-economic variables, comorbidities and concomitant drug use.

RESULTS

Current SGLT2-I use was not associated with a higher risk of LLA versus sulfonylureas {adjusted HR 1.10 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71-1.70]}. Current GLP1-RA use, on the other hand, was associated with a lower risk of LLA [adjusted HR 0.57 (95%CI 0.39-0.84)] compared to sulfonylureas. The risk of DFU was similar to that with sulfonylureas with both exposures of interest.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2-I use was not associated with a higher risk of LLA, but GLP1-RAs with a lower risk of LLA. Previous studies reporting a higher risk of LLA with SGLT2-I use compared to GLP1-RA use might have been looking at a protective GLP1-RA effect, rather than a harmful SGLT2-I effect.

Management of diabesity: Current concepts

The global prevalence of obesity is increasing rapidly with an exponential rise in incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in recent years. 'Diabesity', the term coined to show the strong interlink between obesity and diabetes, is the direct cons-equence of the obesity pandemic, and poses significant challenges in the management of the disease. Without addressing the clinical and mechanistic complications of obesity such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease and obstructive sleep apnoea, a rational management algorithm for diabesity cannot be developed. Several classes of anti-diabetic medications including insulins, sulphonylureas, thiazolidinediones and meglitinides are associated with the risk of weight gain and may potentially worsen diabesity. Therefore, appropriate selection of antidiabetic drug regimen is crucial in the medical management of diabesity. The role of non-pharmacological measures such as dietary adjustments, exercise interventions and bariatric procedures should also be emphasised. Unfortunately, the importance of appropriate and optimal management of diabesity is often overlooked by medical professionals when achieving adequate glycemic control which results in inappropriate management of the disease and its complications. This review provides a narrative clinical update on the evidence behind the management of diabesity.

SGLT2i Improves Glycemic Control in Patients With Congenital Severe Insulin Resistance

Insulin-resistant diabetes in Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome (RMS) is relatively unresponsive to first-line antidiabetic treatments, including metformin and insulin. We report 2 patients with RMS treated with 2 different sodium-glucose cotransporter inhibitors 2: empagliflozin in an 11-year-old boy and dapagliflozin in a 12-year-old girl. In the first patient, we began empagliflozin at 2.5 mg/day and increased the dose to 10 mg/day over 3 months. During treatment with empagliflozin, the amount of time during which the patient maintained serum glucose in the 70 to 180 mg/dL target range increased by 2 hours per day. Hemoglobin A1C dropped from >14% to 11.9%, urinary calcium increased almost twofold, and β-hydroxybutyrate remained <2.5 mmol/L. Because glycemic control did not further improve with dose escalation, we reverted to the 2.5 mg/day dose. We initiated dapagliflozin in a second patient at 5 mg/day and witnessed a reduction of hemoglobin A1C from 8.5% to 6.2% after 6 months and a mild increase in urinary excretion of phosphorus but not calcium. Insulin levels fell by >50%. In 2 patients with RMS, empagliflozin and dapagliflozin were well tolerated and improved glycemic control without significantly increasing ketonemia. Renal calcium excretion should be carefully monitored.

Clinical Parameters Affecting the Therapeutic Efficacy of SGLT-2-Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Dapagliflozin and Empagliflozin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

(1) Background. We aimed to assess long-term efficacy and safety in inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes (T2DM) of two SGLT-2 inhibitors: empagliflozin (Empa) and dapagliflozin (Dapa), combined with metformin, other oral antidiabetics or insulin, according to the protocols in Romania. (2) Methods. The data of 100 patients treated for T2DM with associated dyslipidemia and/or cardiovascular diseases at the University Hospital and Consultmed Medical Center in Iasi were retrospectively reviewed (2017-2021). In total, 48 patients had received dapagliflozin (10 mg with oral antidiabetics or insulin) and 52 patients received empagliflozin (10 mg /25 mg with oral antidiabetics). (3) Results. In both groups, the lowering of BMI was significant: Dapa group (32.04 ± 4.49 vs. 31.40 ± 4.18 kg/m2; p = 0.006), and Empa group (34.16 ± 5.08 vs. 33.17 ± 4.99 kg/m2; p = 0.002). Blood sugar average levels decreased significantly (170 vs. 136 mg/dL; p = 0.001 for Dapa; 163 vs. 140 mg/dL; p = 0.002 for Empa) and also average levels of HbA1c (7.90% vs. 7.51%; p = 0,01 for Dapa; 7.72% vs. 7.35%; p = 0.004 for Empa). (4) Conclusions. Better results in all variables were observed in younger male patients with a shorter duration of diabetes and threshold BMI levels of 34.1, treated with SGLT2, and more significantly with Empa.

Expert Opinion About the Pharmacoeconomic Edge of Low-Cost Dapagliflozin in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Indian Clinical Settings

Background

This study aimed to understand the attitudes, beliefs, and concerns of physicians across India regarding the economic burden of diabetes and subsequently the cost-effectiveness of low-cost dapagliflozin for the management of patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on background metformin therapy in Indian clinical settings.

Method

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted among physicians treating people with T2DM with or without complications. The questions covered the general aspects of affordability and adherence to diabetes medications as well as specific details of low-cost dapagliflozin and its cost-effectiveness.

Results

In total, 844 physicians provided a response to the survey questionnaire. The physicians who participated in the study included diabetologists, endocrinologists, cardiologists, consulting physicians, and family physicians. A majority of the physicians (53%) opined that only 10%-30% of their patients can afford the cost of newer antidiabetic medicines, while 25% of the physicians mentioned that <10% of their patients had issues related to affordability. Further, 39% of the physicians opined that 20%-40% of their patients discontinue the medicines due to high cost. Most of the physicians (95%) agreed that due to the low cost of dapagliflozin, it can be used for the primary prevention of heart failure in patients with T2DM in India. Similarly, 98% of the physicians agreed that it can be used for the treatment of heart failure in patients with or without T2DM in India. A majority of these physicians (93%) responded that switching from expensive sodium/glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) to low-cost dapagliflozin is a long-term cost-effective management of T2DM. In total, 98% of the physicians agreed that low-cost dapagliflozin has the characteristics of an ideal SGLT2i because of its metabolic benefits, cardioprotection, nephroprotection, and potential cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion

This survey-based study indicates that dapagliflozin is an effective and cost-saving therapy for patients with T2DM and complications. Low-cost dapagliflozin can revolutionize the treatment of T2DM in the Indian setting.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults: An overview of 46 systematic reviews

AIMS

To summarize the evidence from systematic reviews (SRs) of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors versus placebo or active comparators for type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched six databases between 2014 and 2021. We assessed the quality of evidence using Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2) and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) and summarized the main outcome results according to their evidence of benefit (PROSPERO ID: CRD42019132431).

RESULTS

We included 46 SRs, comprising 175 RCTs and 136 096 participants. The results showed "clear evidence of benefit" in relation to: myocardial infarction (odds ratio [OR]/hazard ratio [HR] 0.85 to 0.91); cardiovascular mortality (OR/HR 0.67 to 0.86); heart failure (OR/HR 0.64 to 0.69); albuminuria progression and composite renal outcome (relative risk [RR]/HR 0.55 to 0.63); glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) versus placebo (mean difference [MD] -0.49% to -0.77% [5.4 to 8.4 mmol/mol]); and weight versus placebo (MD -1.09 kg to -2.99 kg). "Possible benefit" was observed in relation to major adverse cardiovascular events (OR/HR 0.80 to 0.89), all-cause mortality and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. SGLT2 inhibitors showed "clear evidence of no effect or equivalence" in relation to stroke and fractures. "Clear evidence of harm" was observed in relation to genital infections (RR/OR 2.06 to 5.25) and ketoacidosis (HR/OR 1.36 to 2.20). Regarding amputation risk and urinary tract infections, we found "no conclusions possible due to lack of evidence".

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that SGLT2 inhibitors have beneficial effects in relation to renal and cardiovascular outcomes (except for stroke), HbA1c and weight. Further studies are needed to assess urinary infections and amputation risk.

Diabetes Monotherapies versus Metformin-Based Combination Therapy for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes

Step-wise addition of antihyperglycemic agents (AHA) after the initiation of metformin monotherapy has been the traditional approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) world-wide. Emerging evidence increasingly suggests that metformin-based combination therapy, especially with the newer AHA that lowers HbA1c glucose-dependently and do not potentiate hypoglycemia, could be a potentially better option for durable glycemic control with good tolerability compared to diabetes monotherapy. In this review, we descriptively analyzed the evidence available from the systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized head-to-head trials that reported the efficacy and safety outcomes of diabetes monotherapy, metformin-based combination therapies, and monotherapy versus metformin-based combination therapies.

Analysis of the Adherence and Safety of Second Oral Glucose-Lowering Therapy in Routine Practice From the Mediterranean Area: A Retrospective Cohort Study

The aims of our study was compare adherence measured by the medical possession ratio (MPR), time until discontinuation and describe adverse events after adding a DPP-4i, SGLT-2i, or sulfonylureas (SU) to metformin in a primary care population with insufficient glycemic control. We used routinely-collected health data from the SIDIAP database. The included subjects were matched by propensity score. The follow-up period was up to 24 months or premature discontinuation. The primary outcomes were the percentage of subjects with good adherence, treatment discontinuation and adverse events among treatment groups. The proportion of patients with good adherence (MPR> 0.8) after the addition of DPP-4i, SGLT-2i or SU was 53.6%, 68.7%, and 43.0%, respectively. SGLT-2i users were 1.7 times more likely to achieve good adherence compared with DPP-4i users (odds ratio [OR]:1.72, 98% confidence interval [CI]:1.51, 1.96), and 2.8 times more likely compared with SU users (OR: 0.35, 98% CI: 0.07, 0.29). The discontinuation hazard ratios were 1.43 (98%CI: 1.26; 1.62) and 1.60 (98%CI: 1.42; 1.81) times higher among SGLT-2i and SU users than DPP-4i users during the follow-up period. No differences were observed for adverse events among the treatment groups. In conclusion, in our real-world setting, the combination of SGLT-2i with metformin was associated with better adherence. The mean time until discontinuation was longer in the SGLT-2i group in comparison with the DPP-4i or SU groups.

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.

The different hypoglycemic effects between East Asian and non-Asian type 2 diabetes patients when treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors as an add-on treatment for metformin: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Aims: To investigate the efficacy and safety of SGLT-2 inhibitors as an add-on treatment for metformin between Asian and non-Asian T2DM.

Methods: A systematic literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed through August 2020 with the following keywords: Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors, Sodium Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitor, SGLT-2 inhibitors, type 2 diabetes, and randomized controlled trials. Double-blinded RCTs comparing SGLT-2 inhibitors as an add-on treatment for metformin and metformin monotherapy in adults with type 2 diabetes were included. A random effects model was used to calculate overall effect sizes.

Results: 5 RCTs with 1193 Asian patients and 7 RCTs with 2098 non-Asian patients were investigated. The improvement in HbA1c and fasting blood glucose in the Asian patients (WMD, −0.73%; 95% CI, −1.01% to −0.46%, p < 0.01; WMD, −1.51; 95% CI, −1.81 to −1.21, p < 0.01, respectively) were both significantly better than in the non-Asians (WMD, −0.45%; 95% CI, −0.62% to −0.29%, p < 0.01; WMD, −1.03; 95% CI, −1.27 to −0.78, p < 0.01, respectively). The effect of weight loss was similar in the non-Asian patients and Asian patients. There was little difference in the improvement of systolic blood pressure between them. The risk of serious adverse events was not significantly increased between the Asian and non-Asian patients.

Conclusion: SGLT-2 inhibitors as an add-on treatment for metformin are more efficacious in East Asian T2DM patients than in non-Asian T2DM patients without an additional risk of severe adverse events.

Use of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2-Inhibitors (SGLT2-Is) and Risk of Lower Limb Amputation

BACKGROUND

Treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporter-2-inhibitors (SGLT2-Is), such as canagliflozin, has been associated with an increased risk of lower limb amputations (LLAs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, conflicting results have been reported for different SGLT2-Is and the underlying mechanism is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the risk of LLA and diabetic foot ulcer with SGLT2-I use compared to other anti-diabetic drugs and to explore hypovolemia as a potential underlying mechanism.

METHODS

A cohort study was conducted using data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD (2013-2019). The study population (N=51,847) consisted of T2DM patients over 18 years of age with at least one prescription of a non-insulin anti-diabetic drug. Concomitant diuretic use and the presence of signs of hypovolemia were determined to assess the potential underlying mechanism. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for LLA in current SGLT2-I use versus current sulphonylurea (SU) use. Analyses were adjusted for lifestyle variables, comorbidities, and concomitant drug use.

RESULTS

Current SGLT2-I use was not associated with an increased risk of LLA compared to current SU use (fully adjusted HR 0.70; 95% confidence interval 0.38-1.29). Concomitant use of diuretics and the presence of signs of hypovolemia were not associated with an increased risk of LLA.

CONCLUSION

Use of SGLT2-Is, with or without signs of hypovolemia, was not associated with an increased risk of LLA or DFU versus current SU use. Future studies powered to detect potential differences between individual SGLT2-Is are required to rule out a canagliflozin-specific effect.

Effectiveness and Safety of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Clinical Routine Treatment of Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors with regard to metabolic parameters and patient safety under routine ambulatory conditions. Retrospective longitudinal study of 95 patients with type 2 diabetes (diabetes duration 13.3 y; HbA1c 8.9%; eGFR 80.1 mL/min) receiving SGLT-2-inhibitors. Metabolic control and adverse event profile were evaluated. The mean follow-up time was 1.2 ± 0.8 years. The following changes were observed: HbA1c -1.0% ± 1.9 (p < 0.001), eGFR -7.0 mL/min ± 13.3 (p < 0.001), albuminuria -23.9 mg/g creatinine ± 144.5 (p = 0.118), bodyweight -3.0 kg ± 5.8 (p < 0.001), systolic blood pressure -6 mmHg ± 22 (p = 0.01), diastolic blood pressure -2 mmHg ± 14 (p = 0.243). 53 participants continuously applied the therapy. Twenty-eight participants discontinued SGLT-2-inhibitors due to various reasons: 20 participants because of genital- or urinary tract infections. One for dysuria, seven due to reduced eGFR below 45 mL/min. This study showed a considerable reduction of HbA1c and a modest reduction of eGFR, bodyweight and systolic blood pressure under clinical routine conditions. Genital infections occurred markedly more often than in randomized controlled trials. To apply SGLT-2-inhibitors more safely in clinical routine individual risks for genital and urinary tract infections should be considered and re-evaluated during therapy.

Adverse events associated with sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors: an overview of quantitative systematic reviews

Background:

Multiple published quantitative systematic reviews have reported on adverse events associated with the use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Aims:

To summarize and appraise the quality of evidence from quantitative systematic reviews assessing adverse events of SGLT-2 inhibitors.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library for quantitative systematic reviews assessing SGLT-2 inhibitor safety. Two reviewers extracted data and assessed methodological quality using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) tool. Main outcomes included pooled and single study point estimaates (in the absence of pooled estimates) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of SGLT-2 inhibitors versus placebo or active comparators for genitourinary infections, volume depletion, acute kidney injury, bone fractures, diabetic ketoacidosis, lower limb amputations, cancers, and other notable adverse events.

Results:

Out of 1289 citations screened, 47 reviews assessed SGLT-2 inhibitor safety, of which 35 were of low quality. Canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin were consistently associated with an increased risk of genital tract infections versus placebo (point estimates ranged from 2.5 to 9.8) and other antihyperglycemic agents (point estimates ranged from 2.7 to 12.0). Canagliflozin and dapagliflozin were associated with an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Canagliflozin was the only agent associated with an increased amputation risk; however, this was driven by results from a single trial program. Dapagliflozin was the only agent that exhibited a statistically significant increased risk of urinary tract infections. Empagliflozin was associated with a statistically significant increased risk of bladder cancer; however, this finding was susceptible to detection bias. None of the agents were associated with a statistically significant increased risk of acute kidney injury, or bone fractures compared to placebo or mixed (active or placebo) comparators. Upper 95% CI limits do not rule out clinically meaningful outcomes.

Conclusion:

The majority of quantitative systematic reviews reporting on adverse events of SGLT-2 inhibitors were of low methodological quality. Despite almost 50 quantitative systematic reviews published on the safety of SGLT-2 inhibitors, clinicians are still left uncertain of the risks of important adverse effects.

Plain Language Summary

SGLT-2 iInhibitor side effects: overview of reviews

Many published systematic reviews have reported on side effects associated with the use of sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes. We aimed to summarize and appraise the quality of evidence from quantitative systematic reviews assessing side effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors. Using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) tool, two authors extracted data and assessed the methods of included reviews. Main outcomes included reported pooled and single study point estimates for several SGLT-2 inhibitor side effects such as genital infections, bone fractures, lower limb amputations, increased blood acidity, among others. Of the reviews included in our study, 35 of the 47 reviews assessed were of low quality. Canagliflozin and dapagliflozin were associated with an increased risk of blood acidity in a 2020 review. Canagliflozin was the only agent associated with an increased amputation risk; however, this was driven by results from a single trial program. Dapagliflozin was the only agent that exhibited a significantly increased risk of urinary tract infections. Empagliflozin was associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer; however, this finding was susceptible to bias. None of the agents were associated with an increased risk of kidney injury or bone fractures.

Pharmacological Management of Diabetes for Reducing Glucose Levels and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: What Evidence in South Asians?

INTRODUCTION

South Asians experience more type 2 diabetes, which is earlier in onset and with more rapid glycaemic deterioration, although average body mass indices are lower than in whites. Cardiovascular outcomes from diabetes drug trials are now reported as standard, with data from newer therapies influencing patient management. However, less is known of the effect of such therapies in South Asians. The aim of this narrative review was to extract, wherever possible, the glucose-lowering efficacy and cardiovascular and renal outcome data for these therapies in South Asians.

DISCUSSION

Despite the higher prevalence and global burden of type 2 diabetes and adverse outcomes in South Asians, they remain underrepresented in global trials. Even when recruited, the current method of classifying ethnicity does not commonly allow South Asian data to be extracted and reported separately from all Asians. Interrogation of available trial data suggests broadly comparable effects on glycaemia and weight in Asians to other ethnicities with use of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), but a potentially early, albeit marginally, greater glycaemia benefit with Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4is) which may not be sustained. Furthermore, there appears a potentially greater glycaemia benefit with use of sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in Asians compared to whites. Whether such findings are true in all Asians subgroups requires further direct study. For cardiovascular outcomes, available data suggest at least comparable and potentially greater outcome benefits in Asians; point estimates were more favourable for Asians in the vast majority of GLP-1 RAs and SGLT2is outcome trials. It was, however, impossible to determine whether the effects were similar across all Asian subgroups.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that trialists should be encouraged to record ethnicity with better granularity to allow differing ethnic groups data to be better interrogated. In the meantime, doctors should, where possible, confidently follow newer guidelines for the use of newer glucose lowering agents for treating glycaemia and for the prevention of cardiovascular and cardiorenal complications in South Asian people with type 2 diabetes.

Quality-of-Life Comparison of Dapagliflozin Versus Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Randomized Controlled Trial (J-BOND Study)

INTRODUCTION

No study has compared the effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP4is) on patients' quality-of-life (QOL).

METHODS

We enrolled 253 drug-naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), randomly assigned them into a dapagliflozin (SGLT2i) group or DPP4i group in approximately 1:1 ratio, and monitored them for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects indicating improvement in the "overall quality of life" domain of SHIELD-WQ-9 at week 24. Secondary endpoints included other domains of SHIELD-WQ-9, DTR-QOL, EQ-5D-5L, medication preference, medication adherence, diet therapy adherence, body weight, body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumference, HbA1c, and frequency of adverse events.

RESULTS

The proportion of subjects indicating improvement in the "overall quality of life" domain of SHIELD-WQ-9 at week 24 was higher in the dapagliflozin group (28.4%) than in the DPP4i group (18.6%) (p = 0.08). The proportion of subjects indicating improvement in the "physical health" domain of SHIELD-WQ-9 at week 24 was significantly higher in the dapagliflozin group (42.2%) than in the DPP4i group (23.7%) (p = 0.004). Total scores and domain 1 scores of DTR-QOL showed greater improvement in the dapagliflozin group (14.3 ± 15.6 and 15.5 ± 20.8, respectively) than in the DPP4i group (10.2 ± 15.6 and 10.3 ± 19.5, respectively) (both p = 0.05). EQ-5D-5L scores had significantly improved in the DPP4i group (0.023 ± 0.088) (p = 0.005); the intergroup difference was not significant (p = 0.14). Body weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), and abdominal circumference (p = 0.019) had significantly decreased in the dapagliflozin group compared with the corresponding values in the DPP4i group.

CONCLUSION

Dapagliflozin showed a comparable or more favorable benefit on Japanese patients' QOL compared with DPP4is. Dapagliflozin was well tolerated. It significantly reduced body weight, which was significantly correlated with improvement in the patients' QOL. This study demonstrates that dapagliflozin can be used as a first-line drug for T2DM in Japan with a beneficial impact on patients' QOL.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (UMIN000030514); Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs051180165).

Why the endothelium? The endothelium as a target to reduce diabetes-associated vascular disease

Over the past 66 years, our knowledge of the role of the endothelium in the regulation of cardiovascular function and dysfunction has advanced from the assumption that it is a single layer of cells that serves as a barrier between the blood stream and vascular smooth muscle to an understanding of its role as an essential endocrine-like organ. In terms of historical contributions, we pay particular credit to (1) the Canadian scientist Dr. Rudolf Altschul who, based on pathological changes in the appearance of the endothelium, advanced the argument in 1954 that "one is only as old as one's endothelium" and (2) the American scientist Dr. Robert Furchgott, a 1998 Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or Medicine, who identified the importance of the endothelium in the regulation of blood flow. This review provides a brief history of how our knowledge of endothelial function has advanced and now recognize that the endothelium produces a plethora of signaling molecules possessing paracrine, autocrine, and, arguably, systemic hormone functions. In addition, the endothelium is a therapeutic target for the anti-diabetic drugs metformin, glucagon-like peptide I (GLP-1) receptor agonists, and inhibitors of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) that offset the vascular disease associated with diabetes.

Use of SGLT-2 Inhibitors in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are the newest class of oral antihyperglycemic medications approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). Although they are not approved for use in type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1), SGLT2 inhibitors may help DM1 patients achieve their HbA1c goals by decreasing their insulin requirements, without inducing hypoglycemic episodes and weight gain. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 26 patients with DM1 treated with off-label SGLT-2 inhibitors. The primary objective was change in HbA1c and weight. The secondary objective was assessing the effect on insulin requirements, blood pressure, and lipid profile. Results: Improvement in HbA1c level was seen in 20 of the 26 patients (77%) after initiation of SGLT-2 inhibitors. The average decrease in HbA1c was 0.32% (P = .032), with changes seen as early as 1 month posttherapy and maintained with continued SGLT-2 inhibitor use. There was a trend toward weight loss that was not significant. No significant changes in blood pressure or lipid profiles were seen except for a slight increase in low-density lipoprotein (P = .049). No patient developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis. Three patients discontinued therapy due to uncontrolled genital yeast infections. Conclusion: SGLT-2 inhibitors can be a useful adjunctive therapy in patients with DM1 to improve glycemic control and weight. Although our study did not show any significant changes in the metabolic profile and insulin requirements in these patients, a larger sample size may yield different results.

Safety and effectiveness of tofogliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in real-world practice: Results of 12-month interim analysis of a long-term post-marketing surveillance study (J-STEP/LT)

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Due to the paucity of tofogliflozin data, we assessed the safety and effectiveness of tofogliflozin among Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the clinical setting, stratifying the patients by age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) rate and body mass index. We report the results of a 12-month interim analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a 3-year prospective, observational and multicenter post-marketing study (Japanese Study of tofogliflozin with type 2 diabetes mellitus Patients/Long Term).

RESULTS

Out of 6,897 patients enrolled, the safety and effectiveness analysis populations consisted of 6,712 and 6,449 patients, respectively. During 12 months, adverse drug reactions and their incidence were 9.12 and 0.88%, respectively. The incidence of hypoglycemia was 0.67%. Polyuria/pollakiuria occurred more frequently in patients aged ≥65 years than in patients aged <65 years. Women experienced higher rates of urinary tract and genital infection than men. The lowest eGFR subgroup experienced maximum volume depletion-related events. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders occurred in 0.55% of the patients. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and bodyweight significantly decreased by -0.76% and -2.73 kg, respectively, from baseline to the last observation carried forward (P < 0.0001). Except for the lowest eGFR subgroup, other eGFR subgroups showed significantly decreased HbA1c values. All eGFR subgroups showed significantly decreased bodyweight, and all body mass index subgroups showed significantly decreased HbA1c and bodyweight.

CONCLUSIONS

Our interim 12-month data suggest that tofogliflozin could be used safely and effectively in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as tofogliflozin was well tolerated with low hypoglycemia risk, and significantly improved HbA1c and bodyweight.

Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Optimal glycemic control is required to restrain the increase of cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. The effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors on cardiovascular events and mortality in those patients are not well established. This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane Library and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of 3 different SGLT2 inhibitors (canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin) that evaluated the effects on cardiovascular outcomes and mortality in the final meta-analysis. The intervention arm was defined either as SGLT2 inhibitor monotherapy or as SGLT2 inhibitor add-on to other non-SGLT2 inhibitor antidiabetic agents (ADAs).

RESULTS

Forty-two trials with a total of 61,076 patients with type 2 diabetes were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with the control, SGLT2 inhibitor treatment was associated with a reduction in the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.80-0.93, P < .0001), myocardial infarction (OR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.79-0.94, P = .001), cardiovascular mortality (OR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.67-0.81, P < .0001) and all cause mortality (OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.79-0.92, P < .0001). However, the risk of ischemic stroke was not reduced after SGLT2 inhibitor treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes (OR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.85-1.07, P = .42).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest a decreased risk of harm with SGLT2 inhibitor as a class with respect to cardiovascular events and mortality.

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.

Clinical parameters affecting the therapeutic efficacy of empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes

We aimed to investigate the clinical factors affecting the therapeutic effectiveness of the sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor empagliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We reviewed the medical records of 374 T2DM patients aged between 20 and 75 years who were prescribed empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg as add-on therapy for more than 90 consecutive days. Changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) from baseline levels and the reduction in body weights of the study participants were assessed. We found that younger patients (≤ 50 years), patients with the highest levels of HbA1c (>9%) at baseline, patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of >90 mL/min/1.73 m², and patients with a shorter duration of T2DM (< 10 years) were more likely to exhibit a better glycemic response. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that a shorter duration of T2DM, higher baseline levels of HbA1c, and higher eGFR were positively associated with HbA1c reduction. Higher BMI and lower HbA1c levels were predictors of a more significant reduction in body weight among patients taking empagliflozin. The glucose-lowering effect of empagliflozin was more evident in T2DM patients with higher baseline HbA1c levels, better renal function, and shorter duration of T2DM.

Cost-Effectiveness of Canagliflozin Versus Dapagliflozin Added to Metformin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in China

PURPOSE

Agents that inhibit sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2), including canagliflozin and dapagliflozin, become available for the treatment of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study assessed the economic outcomes of canagliflozin 100 mg versus dapagliflozin 10 mg in patients with T2DM inadequately controlled with metformin in the Chinese context.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Economic outcomes were projected by using the validated Chinese Outcomes Model for T2DM (COMT). Efficacy and safety, medical expenditure, and utility data were derived from the literature, which were assigned to model variables for estimating the quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) and costs as well as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). The analysis was conducted from the perspective of Chinese healthcare service providers. One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Health outcomes and costs were discounted at 5%.

RESULTS

Relative to dapagliflozin 10 mg, treatment with canagliflozin 100 mg was associated with additional 0.015 expected life years per patients treated and 0.013 QALYs gained, which was driven by the reduced risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications over lifetime horizon. The incremental cost of canagliflozin 100 mg versus dapagliflozin 10 mg was US $-129, which indicated the canagliflozin 100 mg strategy was a dominant option. The univariate sensitivity analyses indicated that the results were sensitive to several model inputs.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that canagliflozin was a cost-saving treatment option compared with dapagliflozin from the perspective of Chinese health care services providers for Chinese patients with T2DM who are inadequately controlled on metformin monotherapy.

Long-term efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with metformin monotherapy: 104-week VERTIS MET trial

AIM

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on metformin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 104-week Phase III, randomized double-blind study with a 26-week placebo-controlled period (Phase A) and a 78-week period (Phase B) where blinded glimepiride was added to non-rescued placebo participants with fasting fingerstick glucose ≥6.1 mmol/L. Results through week 104 are reported.

RESULTS

Mean (standard error) change in HbA1c from baseline was -0.7% (0.07) and -1.0% (0.07) at week 52; -0.6% (0.08) and -0.9% (0.08) at week 104 for ertugliflozin 5 and 15 mg. At week 52, 34.8% and 36.6% participants had HbA1c <7.0%, and 24.6% and 33.7% at week 104, for ertugliflozin 5 and 15 mg. Ertugliflozin reduced fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) from baseline through week 104. The incidence of female genital mycotic infections (GMIs) was higher with ertugliflozin, and symptomatic hypoglycaemia was lower for ertugliflozin versus placebo/glimepiride. Minimal bone mineral density (BMD) changes were observed, similar to placebo/glimepiride, except at total hip where reduction in BMD was greater with ertugliflozin 15 mg versus placebo/glimepiride: difference in least squares means (95% CI) -0.50% (-0.95, -0.04) at week 52 and -0.84% (-1.44, -0.24) at week 104.

CONCLUSIONS

Ertugliflozin maintained improvements from baseline in HbA1c, FPG, body weight and SBP through week 104. Ertugliflozin was well tolerated, with non-clinically relevant changes in BMD. Compared with placebo/glimepiride, ertugliflozin increased female GMIs, but reduced the incidence of symptomatic hypoglycaemia. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02033889.

Evidence-Based Consensus on Positioning of SGLT2i in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Indians

The current diabetes management strategies not only aim at controlling glycaemic parameters but also necessitate continuous medical care along with multifactorial risk reduction through a comprehensive management concept. The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a group of evolving antidiabetic agents that have the potential to play a pivotal role in the comprehensive management of patients with diabetes due to their diverse beneficial effects. SGLT2i provide moderate glycaemic control, considerable body weight and blood pressure reduction, and thus have the ability to lower the risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications. Some of the unique characteristics associated with SGLT2i, such as reduction in body weight (more visceral fat mass loss than subcutaneous fat loss), reduction in insulin resistance and improvement in β-cell function, as measured by homeostatic model assessment-β (HOMA-β) could be potentially beneficial and help in overcoming some of the challenges faced by Indian patients with diabetes. In addition, a patient-centric approach with individualised treatment during SGLT2i therapy is inevitable in order to reduce diabetic complications and improve quality of life. Despite their broad benefits profile, the risk of genital tract infections, volume depletion, amputations and diabetic ketoacidosis associated with SGLT2i should be carefully monitored. In this compendium, we systematically reviewed the literature from Medline, Cochrane Library, and other relevant databases and attempted to provide evidence-based recommendations for the positioning of SGLT2i in the management of diabetes in the Indian population.Funding: AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited.

Body Weight Considerations in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes

Obesity is one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes (T2D), representing a major worldwide health crisis. Modest weight-loss (≥ 5% but < 10%) can minimize and reduce diabetes-associated complications, and significant weight-loss can potentially resolve disease. Treatment guidelines recommend that intensive lifestyle interventions, pharmacologic therapy, and/or metabolic surgery be considered as options for patients with T2D and obesity. The benefits and risks of such interventions should be evaluated in the context of their weight-loss potential, ability to sustain weight change, side effect profile, and costs. Antihyperglycemia therapies have considerable effects on patient weight, prompting careful consideration of weight-loss or weight-neutral therapies for patients with T2D who also have obesity. Metformin, sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), α-glucosidase inhibitors, and amylin mimetics promote weight-loss. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and fixed-ratio insulin/GLP-1 RA combination therapies (IDegLira, iGlarLixi) appear to be weight-neutral. Thiazolidinediones, insulin secretagogues (sulfonylureas, meglitinides), and insulins are associated with weight gain. Sulfonylureas are additionally associated with a higher risk of serious hypoglycemia from hyperinsulinemia, making them less suitable for the treatment of patients who are overweight or have obesity. Patients are often overtitrated on basal insulin, resulting in an increased risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain without achieving glycemic goals. Given these observations, the effects of antihyperglycemia agents on weight should be considered when individualizing T2D therapy.Funding: Sanofi US, Inc.

Risk of amputations associated with SGLT2 inhibitors compared to DPP-4 inhibitors: A propensity-matched cohort study

AIM

To determine the risk of amputations associated with sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) relative to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted an active comparator, new user cohort study using data from the Truven Health MarketScan (2009-2015) databases. Patients aged ≥18 years newly initiating SGLT2i or DPP4i between April 1, 2013 and March 31, 2015 were included. Patients were matched 1:1 on high dimensional propensity scores and followed until the earliest of any amputation, treatment discontinuation, disenrollment or end of study period (December 31, 2015). Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and robust 95% confidence intervals (CI) for amputation risk.

RESULTS

There were 30 216 comparable patients in each arm after matching. Over a median follow-up of 0.6 years, there were 60 amputations (SGLT2i: 36; DPP4i: 24), most at the level of partial foot (75%) and associated with diabetes-related vascular disease (66.7%). The incidence of amputations was higher among SGLT2i patients (1.62 vs. 1.15 per 1000 person-years) with a HR of 1.38 (CI: 0.83-2.31). In subgroup analyses, risk differed by type of SGLT2i: canagliflozin, HR 1.15 (CI: 0.63-2.09); dapagliflozin or empagliflozin, HR 2.25 (CI: 0.78-6.47).

CONCLUSION

All SGLT2i had an elevated, though not statistically significant, risk for amputations.

Addressing Clinical Inertia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Review

The current epidemic of type 2 diabetes (T2D) represents a significant global and national health concern. Globally, the prevalence of diabetes has doubled between 1980 and 2014. In 2014 the World Health Organization estimated that there were 422 million adults living with diabetes worldwide. In the USA, the number of people diagnosed with T2D is estimated to increase to over 70 million by 2050, putting an immense strain on the US healthcare system. Achieving glycemic control is widely acknowledged as the key goal of treatment in T2D and is critical for reducing the onset and progression of diabetes-related complications such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathies, retinopathies, and nephropathies. Despite the increase in the availability of antihyperglycemic medications and evidence-based treatment guidelines, the proportion of people with T2D who fail to achieve glycemic goals continues to rise. One major contributor is a delay in treatment intensification despite suboptimal glycemic control, referred to as clinical or therapeutic inertia. Clinical inertia prolongs the duration of patients' hyperglycemia which subsequently puts them at increased risk of diabetes-associated complications and reduced life expectancy. Clinical inertia results from a complex interaction between patient, healthcare providers, and healthcare system barriers that need to be addressed together, rather than as separate entities. In this article we provide an overview of clinical inertia in the clinical management of T2D and provide suggestions for overcoming aspects that may have a negative impact on patient care.Funding: Sanofi US, Inc.

Comparison of Oral Antidiabetic Drugs as Add-On Treatments in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Uncontrolled on Metformin: A Network Meta-Analysis

We assessed the efficacy and safety of oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) as an add-on treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes uncontrolled on metformin. PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase were searched from inception to October 20, 2017. Pairwise and network meta-analyses were conducted using Stata 14.1 software. Odds ratios (ORs) and weighted mean differences (WMDs) were used to evaluate outcomes. Sixty-eight trials including 36,746 patients were analyzed. No significant differences in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and all-cause mortality were observed among any class of OADs when combined with metformin. All classes of OADs as add-ons to metformin improved glucose control, while sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors showed greater fasting plasma glucose (FPG) reductions {WMD, - 1.49 [95% confidence interval (CI) - 1.69 to - 1.28] mmol/l} and 2 h postprandial glucose (2 h PPG) reductions [WMD, - 3.07 (95% CI - 4.12 to - 2.03) mmol/l]. Thiazolidinediones and sulfonylureas were associated with weight gain [WMD, 2.53 (95% CI 1.95-3.10) kg and 2.00 (95% CI 1.63-2.36) kg, respectively] when added to metformin. Sulfonylureas [WMD, 6.52 (95% CI 4.07-10.45)] were associated with the highest ORs of hypoglycemia. Our results suggest that the seven classes of OADs were not associated with any increased risk of MACEs or all-cause mortality when combined with metformin. Most OADs were associated with similarly large reductions in HbA1c levels when added to metformin, while SGLT-2 inhibitors might be the best option for reducing body weight, FPG, and 2-h PPG.

The actions of SGLT2 inhibitors on metabolism, renal function and blood pressure

Inhibition of the sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2 in the proximal tubule of the kidney has a broad range of effects on renal function and plasma volume homeostasis, as well as on adiposity and energy metabolism across the entire body. SGLT2 inhibitors are chiefly used in type 2 diabetes for glucose control, achieving reductions in HbA_1c of 7-10 mmol/mol (0.6-0.9%) when compared with placebo. This glucose-lowering activity is proportional to the ambient glucose concentration and glomerular filtration of this glucose, so may be greater in those with poor glycaemic control and/or hyperfiltration at baseline. Equally, the glucose-lowering effects of SGLT2 inhibitors are attenuated in individuals without diabetes and those with a reduced eGFR. However, unlike the glucose-lowering effects of SGLT2 inhibitors, the spill-over of sodium and glucose beyond the proximal nephron following SGLT2 inhibition triggers dynamic and reversible realignment of energy metabolism, renal filtration and plasma volume without relying on losses into the urine. In addition, these processes are observed in the absence of significant glucosuria or ongoing natriuresis. In the long term, the resetting of energy/salt/water physiology following SGLT2 inhibition has an impact, not only on adiposity, renal function and blood pressure control, but also on the health and survival of patients with type 2 diabetes. A better understanding of the precise biology underlying the acute actions of SGLT2 inhibitors in the kidney and how they are communicated to the rest of the body will likely lead to improved therapeutics that augment similar pathways in individuals with, or even without, diabetes to achieve additional benefits.

Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors on Circulating Stem and Progenitor Cells in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

CONTEXT

Reduction in the levels of circulating stem cells (CSCs) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) predicts development or progression of microangiopathy and macroangiopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

OBJECTIVE

We tested whether treatment with sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors affected the levels of CSCs and EPCs.

DESIGN

A randomized trial of dapagliflozin vs placebo with open-label extension, and an open-label observational study of empagliflozin treatment.

SETTING

Tertiary referral diabetes outpatient clinic.

PATIENTS

Patients with T2D aged 18 to 75 years.

INTERVENTION

Dapagliflozin at 10 mg vs placebo (n = 31); empagliflozin at 10 mg (n = 15).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

We measured CSCs (CD34+) and EPCs (CD34+KDR+) by flow cytometry at baseline, at 12 weeks, and after the extension period.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks, CSCs declined nonsignificantly in the dapagliflozin group, remained stable in the placebo group, and the change from baseline was not significantly different between the two groups. EPCs declined nonsignificantly in the dapagliflozin group, increased nonsignificantly in the placebo group, and the change from baseline was significantly different between the two groups. After an open-label extension period of about 1.5 years, CSCs remained stable over time, whereas EPCs significantly increased in patients who received dapagliflozin. In all patients, irrespectively of treatment, EPCs increased significantly from baseline to the end of observation, concomitantly with improvement in HbA1c. In a cohort of 15 patients who received open-label empagliflozin for 12 weeks, CSCs declined nonsignificantly, whereas EPCs remained stable.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2 inhibitors do not significantly increase CSCs or EPCs. Thus, cardiovascular protection by SGLT2 inhibitors may not directly involve stem/progenitor cells.

Dapagliflozin: Cardiovascular Safety and Benefits in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) such as dapagliflozin, canagliflozin, and empagliflozin, are a promising new therapy in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). SGLT2is can effectively reduce hyperglycemia thus improving glycemic control and they offer some beneficial effects on the cardiovascular (CV) system which can benefit patients with heart failure in addition toT2DM. The United States Food and Drug Administration requires new diabetes mellitus therapies to show a CV safety profile. Empagliflozin was the first SGLT2i that, when added to the standard of care for patients withT2DM at high risk for CV events, showed improved CV outcomes including reduced deaths from CV causes. Evidence also exists in favor of dapagliflozin for use in patients with T2DM with CV risk factors and heart failure. This review focuses on the effects, safety, and benefits of dapagliflozin on the CV system. Clinical trials have shown that dapagliflozin improves glycemic control without variation. It is safe and well-tolerated in the general population including older patients and those with high-risk CV factors or preexisting CV disease. There may be a renal protective role by an unknown mechanism. Dapagliflozin also lowers blood pressure due to its natriuresis effect. It improves levels of visceral fat and reduces body weight, and thus ameliorates metabolic syndrome. Dapagliflozin reduces oxidative stress and may delay atherosclerosis. Recent findings indicate SGLT2is may also reduce the atrial natriuretic peptide levels. Additional trials are required to validate these benefits and further evaluate if these are class effects. Trials such as DECLARE-TIMI58 are ongoing to evaluate the CV outcomes of dapagliflozin. More research is needed to design better antihyperglycemic regimes with clinical benefits in addition to good glycemic control.