Efficacy of Modern Diabetes Treatments DPP-4i, SGLT-2i, and GLP-1RA in White and Asian Patients With Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Synergistic benefit of thiazolidinedione and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in type 2 diabetes: a 24-week, open-label, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The close interplay between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and type 2 diabetes supports the need to identify beneficial combination therapies of antidiabetic medications targeted for the treatment of MASLD. This study aimed to investigate the complementary effects of combination therapy with pioglitazone (PIO) and empagliflozin (EMPA) on MASLD in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

In a randomized, open-label trial, 50 participants with type 2 diabetes and MASLD were assigned 1:1:1 to receive PIO 15 mg, EMPA 10 mg, or a combination (PIO 15 mg plus EMPA 10 mg) daily for 24 weeks. Liver fat fraction and stiffness were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) and magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), respectively.

RESULTS

Combination therapy resulted in the largest reduction in liver fat and stiffness among treatment groups. Participants experiencing a relative reduction ≥ 30% or an absolute reduction ≥ 5% in liver fat were the most prevalent in the combination group (100.0% vs. 57.1% in PIO and 87.5% in EMPA, p = 0.010). In addition, the combination group showed the highest proportion of individuals with a relative reduction ≥ 30% in liver fat and ≥ 20% in liver stiffness than the monotherapy groups (50.0% vs. 21.4% in PIO and 6.3% in EMPA, p = 0.029). Combination therapy did not induce the changes in subcutaneous fat deposition observed in the monotherapy groups, but it did show the most substantial reduction in visceral fat, concurrently showing the largest increase in adiponectin level across the three groups (p = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

Combination therapy of PIO with EMPA showed synergistic benefits for MASLD in individuals with type 2 diabetes, compensating for the inadequate or unfavorable effects of monotherapies; ClincialTrials.gov number, NCT03646292.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (registration number: NCT03646292).

Real world initiation of newly funded empagliflozin and dulaglutide under special authority for patients with type 2 diabetes in New Zealand

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is sub-optimally managed for many in Aotearoa New Zealand, and disproportionately affects Māori and Pacific peoples. In February 2021, SGLT2i/GLP1RA agents were funded for use for the first time with prioritisation for Māori, Pacific and those with cardiovascular and/or renal disease or risk (CVRD). This study evaluates the impact of health system factors on initiation of SGLT2i/GLP1RA therapy.

METHODS

Primary care data was collected for patients with T2D aged 18-75 years from four primary care organisations (302 general practices) in the Auckland / Waikato region of New Zealand (Feb 2021 - July 2022). Initiation of SGLT2i/GLP1RA therapy was reviewed by patient (age, gender, ethnicity, CVRD status) and health system variables (funding, provider type, staffing, patient numbers, rurality, after-hours access). Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio of a patient being dispensed SGLT2i/GLP1RA.

RESULTS

Of 57,743 patients with T2D, 22,331 were eligible for funded SGLT2i/GLP1RA access and 10,272 of those (46.0%) were prescribed. Initiation of therapy was highest in Māori (50.8%) and Pacific (48.8%) patients (vs. 36·2-40·7% of other ethnic groups; P < 0.001), but was comparable in those with and without CVRD (47·1% vs. 48·9%; P = 0.2). Prescribing was highest in practices with higher doctor/patient numbers, low-cost fees, Māori health providers and clinics without after-hours access.

CONCLUSION

Prioritised access for SGLT2i/GLP1RA appears to be associated with a reduced health equity gap for Māori and Pacific patients with T2D in NZ, but work is required to improve prescribing for patients with CVRD.

The population-specific Thr44Met OCT3 coding variant affects metformin pharmacokinetics with subsequent effects on insulin sensitivity in C57Bl/6J mice

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Metformin is an important first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes and acts by increasing the body's ability to dispose of glucose. Metformin's efficacy can be affected by genetic variants in the transporters that regulate its uptake into cells. The SLC22A3 gene (also known as EMT; EMTH; OCT3) codes for organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3), which is a broad-specificity cation transporter that also transports metformin. Most SLC22A3 variants reduce the rate of metformin transport but the rs8187715 variant (p.Thr44Met) is reported to increase uptake of metformin in vitro. However, the impact of this on in vivo metformin transport and efficacy is unknown. Very few carriers of this variant have been reported globally, but, notably, all were of Pacific Island descent. Therefore, this study aims to understand the prevalence of this variant in Polynesian peoples (Māori and Pacific peoples) and to understand its impact on metformin transport and efficacy in vivo.

METHODS

rs8187715 was genotyped in 310 individuals with Māori and Pacific ancestry recruited in Aotearoa New Zealand. To study this variant in a physiological context, an orthologous knockin mouse model with C57BL/6J background was used. Pharmacokinetic analysis compared uptake rate of metformin into tissues. Plasma growth/differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) was also measured as a marker of metformin efficacy. Glucose and insulin tolerance was assessed after acute or sustained metformin treatment in knockin and wild-type control mice to examine the impact of the variant on metformin's glycaemic control.

RESULTS

The minor allele frequency of this variant in the Māori and Pacific participants was 15.4%. There was no association of the variant with common metabolic parameters including diabetes status, BMI, blood pressure, lipids, or blood glucose and HbA1c. However, in the orthologous knockin mouse model, the rate of metformin uptake into the blood and tissues was increased. Acute metformin dosing increased insulin sensitivity in variant knockin mice but this effect was lost after longer-term metformin treatment. Metformin's effects on GDF-15 levels were also lost in variant knockin mice with longer-term metformin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

These data provide evidence that the SLC22A3 rs8187715 variant accelerates metformin uptake rate in vivo. While this acutely improves insulin sensitivity, there was no increased effect of metformin with longer-term dosing. Thus, our finding of a high prevalence of this variant specifically in Māori and Pacific peoples identifies it as a potential population-specific pharmacogenetic marker with potential to guide metformin therapy in these peoples.

Long-Term Clinical and Economic Effects of Switching to Once-Weekly Semaglutide from Other GLP-1 RAs Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in China: A Modeling Projection Study

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies, using clinical trial data, demonstrated that once-weekly (OW) semaglutide is dominant versus other glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in China. This study aims to evaluate the long-term clinical and economic effects of switching to OW semaglutide from other GLP-1 RAs among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in China.

METHODS

The Institute of Health Economics Diabetes Cohort Model (IHE-DCM) was used to project life expectancy, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and total direct medical cost over 40 years from a Chinese healthcare system perspective. Baseline characteristics, clinical effectiveness, and the treatment dose of OW semaglutide were derived from previously real-world studies. Patients were assumed to switch to semaglutide or continue previous GLP-1 RAs for 3 years and change to intensive therapy. Drug prices were based on the median bidding price in January 2024 in China. Costs of other GLP-1 RAs were calculated on the basis of their market share in China. All costs were accounted as 2023 Chinese yuan (CNY). A discount of 5% was applied. One-way sensitivity analyses and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were used to test the robustness of the base-case result.

RESULTS

The results show that switching to OW semaglutide from other GLP-1 RAs among patients with T2DM in China can improve life expectancy by 0.02 years and afford an additional 0.12 QALYs per patient. Meanwhile, switching to OW semaglutide is associated with decreased total lifetime direct medical costs of 4204 CNY per patient, mainly resulting from savings in microvascular costs (2214 CNY) and macrovascular costs (1228 CNY). Sensitivity analyses show the robustness of modeling projection findings.

CONCLUSION

Based on real-world data from China, this modeling projection study demonstrates that switching to OW semaglutide from other GLP-1 RAs can have better clinical and economic effects for patients with T2DM in China, indicating it as a dominant treatment choice.

Lessons Learned From Epidemiology of Type 2 Diabetes in South Asians: Kelly West Award Lecture 2024

South Asia has high prevalence rates of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Until the 1990s, the prevalence of T2D within South Asia was low but much higher in the South Asian diaspora living abroad. Today, high prevalence rates of T2D are reported among those living in South Asia. T2D in South Asians presents with unique clinical features described as the "South Asian phenotype" that include younger age at onset of diabetes than in White Europeans, much lower BMI, hyperinsulinemia and greater insulin resistance, rapid decline in β-cell function resulting in low insulin reserve, low muscle mass, and greater ectopic fat deposition, especially in the liver. Also, prevalence of impaired fasting glucose is higher among South Asians than prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance. Genetic predisposition combined with intrauterine fetal programming (low vitamin B12 intake and high folate intake) increases susceptibility to T2D, from birth. In later life, overnutrition, especially a high carbohydrate intake with refined grains of higher glycemic index, coupled with low physical activity likely triggers the T2D epidemic in South Asians. Additionally, there are emerging risk factors like air pollution. Preventing T2D in South Asians requires a multifactorial approach, including improvements in maternal and fetal nutrition with special reference to vitamin B12 and folate intake, decreasing refined carbohydrate and increasing protein and fiber intake in the diet, increasing physical activity, and control of air pollution. Lessons learned from epidemiology of T2D in South Asians could be useful to other developing countries that are in earlier stages of epidemiological transition.

A partial loss-of-function variant (Ile191Val) of the TAS1R2 glucose receptor is associated with enhanced responses to exercise training in older adults with obesity: A translational study

BACKGROUND

The TAS1R2 receptor, known for its role in taste perception, has also emerged as a key regulator of muscle physiology. Previous studies have shown that genetic ablation of TAS1R2 in mice enhances muscle fitness mimicking responses to endurance exercise training. However, the translational relevance of these findings to humans remains uncertain.

METHODS

We explored responses to endurance exercise training in mice and humans with genetic deficiency of TAS1R2. First, we assessed the effects of muscle-specific deletion of TAS1R2 in mice (mKO) or wild type controls (mWT) following 4 weeks of voluntary wheel running (VWR). Next, we investigated the effects of the TAS1R2-Ile191Val (rs35874116) partial loss-of-function variant on responses to a 6-month diet-induced weight loss with exercise training (WLEX), weight loss alone (WL), or education control (CON) interventions in older individuals with obesity. Participants were retrospectively genotyped for the TAS1R2-Ile191Val polymorphism and classified as conventional function (Ile/Ile) or partial loss-of-function (Val carriers: Ile/Val and Val/Val). Body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness, and skeletal muscle mitochondrial function were assessed before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

In response to VWR, mKO mice demonstrated enhanced running endurance and mitochondrial protein content. Similarly, TAS1R2 Val carriers exhibited distinctive improvements in body composition, including increased muscle mass, along with enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness and mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle following the WLEX intervention compared to Ile/Ile counterparts. Notably, every Val carrier demonstrated substantial responses to exercise training and weight loss, surpassing all Ile/Ile participants in overall performance metrics.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that TAS1R2 partial loss-of-function confers beneficial effects on muscle function and metabolism in humans in response to exercise training, akin to observations in TAS1R2 muscle-deficient mice. Targeting TAS1R2 may help enhancing exercise training adaptations in individuals with compromised exercise tolerance or metabolic disorders, presenting a potential avenue for personalized exercise interventions.

The Effects of Tirzepatide on Lipid Profile: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Tirzepatide is a novel dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP)-glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist being evaluated for the treatment of various metabolic disorders. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized data on the effects of tirzepatide on serum lipid levels.

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for relevant data from randomized controlled clinical trials. All articles were screened, reviewed, and extracted by at least two independent authors, with conflicts resolved by consensus. Four hundred and thirty-three records were identified in the initial literature search; 18 of them were identified for full-text review, and 14 of those were systematically reviewed and included in the analysis. The meta-analysis was performed using an inverse variance random-effects model.

Results

Fourteen articles that reported data from 13 randomized controlled clinical trials were included in the review. Nine trials had a low risk of bias, two had a moderate risk, and two had a high risk of bias. The pooled analysis showed that tirzepatide was efficacious at improving all lipid markers, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Moreover, a clear dose response trend was visible across results from groups taking 5, 10, and 15 mg of tirzepatide.

Conclusion

There is growing evidence to support the use of tirzepatide in patients with metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. Our results demonstrate that tirzepatide significantly improves all aspects of patient metabolism and might be superior in this regard to conventional agents such as insulin formulations or traditional GLP-1 agonists.

Case report of a female western Indian vegetarian with obesity

Background

South Asians are defined as those indigenous to the Indian subcontinent - India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. This ethnic group is a unique population with increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome even at a lower body mass index (BMI). Should they also have increased BMI, the risk for development of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular complications are further magnified. Strong cultural perceptions about ideal body weight, lack of awareness about the race and ethnicity-specific risks, and knowledge gaps regarding different dietary patterns among the healthcare providers confound further the metabolic issues pertinent to South Asians living in North America.

Methods

In this case study of a South Asian patient, we present asynchronous co-management of obesity by an obesity specialist and the primary care provider in a university-based clinic.

Results

Intense lifestyle interventions including a custom-tailored Indian vegetarian meal plan and weekly injectable Semaglutide was offered to the patient as treatment plan. The patient lost 59 pounds, and BMI changed from 34.1 kg/m2 to 23.5 kg/m2.

Conclusion

Intensive lifestyle interventions with custom-tailored dietary changes, regular physical activity and behavior modifications combined with appropriate pharmacotherapy can be very successful in the management of obesity among South Asians living in North America.

Racial, ethnic and regional differences in the effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists on cardiovascular and renal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cardiovascular outcome trials

OBJECTIVES

The cardiorenal protective effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-Is) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) across racial and ethnic groups are not well defined. By conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of all randomised, placebo-controlled, cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes trials (CVOTs), we aimed to compare racial/ethnic as well as regional patterns in the effects of SGLT2-Is and GLP1-RAs on cardiovascular and renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

DESIGN

Trials were identified from MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and search of bibliographies to 7 July 2023. Setting North America, South/Central America, Europe (Eastern and Western), Asia, Australia-New Zealand (Pacific), Asia/Pacific, and Africa.

SETTING

North America, South/Central America, Europe (Eastern and Western), Asia, Australia-New Zealand (Pacific), Asia/Pacific, and Africa.

PARTICIPANTS

people with type 2 diabetes enrolled in cardiovascular outcome trials of SGLT2-Is and GLP1-RAs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Outcomes were (i) major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), (ii) composite CVD death/heart failure (HF) hospitalization; (iii) composite renal outcome; and (iv) their components. Study-specific hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled.

RESULTS

In total, 14 unique CVOTs (7 comparing SGLT2-Is vs placebo and 7 comparing GLP1-RAs vs placebo) were eligible. The proportion of participants enrolled in the trials ranged from 66.6-93.2% for White populations, 1.2-21.6% for Asian populations, 2.4-8.3% for Black populations and 0.9-23.1% for Other populations. The HR (95% CI) for MACE comparing SGLT2-Is vs placebo was 0.92 (0.86-0.98), 0.69 (0.53-0.92) and 0.70 (0.54-0.91) for White, Asian and Hispanic/Latino populations, respectively. Comparing GLP1-RAs vs placebo, the corresponding HR (95% CI) was 0.88 (0.80-0.97), 0.76 (0.63-0.93) and 0.82 (0.70-0.95), respectively. SGLT2-Is reduced the risk of all other cardiorenal outcomes in White and Asian populations, except for HF hospitalizations in Asians. No effects were observed in Black populations except for a reduced risk of HF hospitalizations by SGLT2-I. SGLT1-Is reduced the risk of composite CVD death/HF hospitalization in North America and Europe, whereas GLP1-RAs reduced the risk of MACE in Europe. GRADE certainty of evidence ranged from moderate to high.

CONCLUSIONS

There appears to be substantial racial/ethnic differences in the cardiorenal effects of SGLT2-Is and GLP1-RAs in patients with T2D, with consistent benefits observed among White and Asian populations and consistent lack of benefits in Black populations. Whether the differences are due to issues with under-representation of Black populations and low statistical power or racial/ethnic variations in the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and safety of SGLT2-Is and GLP1-RAs need further investigation.PROSPERO Registration: CRD42023401734.

Long-term comparison of renal and metabolic outcomes after sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist therapy in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes following treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs) have not been directly compared. This study compared the impact of SGLT2i and GLP1RA therapy on renal function and metabolic parameters.

METHODS

Patients with type 2 diabetes who initiated SGLT2i or GLP1RA therapy in a tertiary hospital between January 2009 and August 2023 were included to assess composite renal outcomes, such as a 40% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), onset of end-stage renal disease, renal death, or new-onset macroalbuminuria. Alterations in blood pressure, glucose regulation parameters, lipid profile, and anthropometric parameters, including body fat and muscle masses, were examined over 4-years.

RESULTS

A total of 2,112 patients were enrolled using a one-to-three propensity-score matching approach (528 patients for GLP1RAs, 1,584 patients for SGLT2i). SGLT2i treatment was favoured over GLP1RA treatment, though not significantly, for composite renal outcomes (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63; p = 0.097). SGLT2i therapy preserved renal function effectively than GLP1RAs (decrease in eGFR, ≥ 40%; HR, 0.46; p = 0.023), with improving albuminuria regression (HR, 1.72; p = 0.036). SGLT2i therapy decreased blood pressure and body weight to a greater extent. However, more patients attained HbA1c levels < 7.0% with GLP1RAs than with SGLT2is (40.6% vs 31.4%; p < 0.001). GLP1RA therapy enhanced β-cell function and decreased LDL-cholesterol levels below baseline values.

CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2is were superior for preserving renal function and reducing body weight, whereas GLP1RAs were better for managing glucose dysregulation and dyslipidaemia.

Time trends and regional variation in utilization of antidiabetic medicines in China, 2015-2022

AIM

To assess the use of non-insulin antidiabetic medicines in China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analysed the national procurement data for 29 non-insulin antidiabetic medicines from nine subgroups in China from 2015 to 2022. We estimated the number of defined daily doses (DDDs) procured per year in seven regions of China for nine subgroups and adjusted the data by the number of patients with diabetes. For each subgroup, the regional ratio was calculated by comparing the procurement per patient in each region with the procurement nationwide. The regional disparity was the difference between the highest and lowest regional ratios. We compared the medication patterns across regions.

RESULTS

Nationally, between 2015 and 2022, the number of DDDs per patient increased from 14.45 to 47.37. The two most commonly used categories were sulphonylurea and biguanides, which increased from 7.04 to 15.39 (119%) and 3.28 to 11.11 (239%) DDDs per patient, respectively. The procurement of new drugs (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) increased quickly and had >5000% relative changes. Particularly for sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors, it increased from 0.08 to 5.03 DDDs (6662%). The southwest region had the highest relative change (319%), while the southern region had the lowest (118%). Biguanide and thiazolidinediones had the lowest (1.19) and highest level (2.21) of regional disparity in 2022, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The procurement of non-insulin antidiabetic medicines in China has increased a lot from 2015 to 2022. In terms of DDDs per patient, sulphonylurea ranked first, followed by metformin. The procurement of new drugs increased greatly. A large regional disparity existed in medicine usage and patterns.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes in South Asia: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are a helpful tool for the evidence-based management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D). The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize and appraise the scope and quality of South Asian T2D CPGs.

METHODS

This PROPSERO registered (CRD42023425150) systematic review adhered to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases for relevant guidelines. Data synthesis was performed using a qualitative approach and methodological quality was assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool.

RESULTS

We identified eleven unique CPGs (three each from Pakistan and Sri Lanka, two from India, and one each from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan) which were published or updated between 2017 and 2023. The CPGs included recommendations regarding screening, diagnosis, prevention, and management of T2D and its acute and chronic complications, comorbidities, and fasting with T2D. The AGREE II mean domain scores ranged from 37 % to 80 %; three CPGs were 'recommended for clinical use,' seven were 'recommended for use with modifications' and one was deemed unfit for implementation.

CONCLUSION

The present review summarized and appraised broadly CPGs from South Asia for T2D and can help direct improvements to future iterations.

Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide in Asians and Non-Asians with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Tirzepatide is a novel hypoglycemic agent for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the pathophysiology of T2DM in Asians is different from that in non-Asians, and there is no evidence to explain the differences in the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide between different races.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), PubMed, Cochrane Library, Clinical Trials.gov, and Embase databases for clinical studies of tirzepatide for T2DM. The data extraction process was done independently by two authors. All analyses were performed using STATA 14.0 software and Review Manager 5.3 software.

RESULTS

A total of 2118 patients with T2DM from 6 studies were involved, with doses of tirzepatide ranging from 5 to 15 mg administered subcutaneously once weekly. The results showed that compared with control/placebo, tirzepatide was more effective in decreasing fasting blood glucose (FBG) in non-Asians than in Asians, and 10 mg rather than 15 mg was the optimal dose to decrease FBG. Similarly, non-Asians were more effective than Asians in improving glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). Asians were significantly more effective than non-Asians in reducing body weight and ≥ 5% weight loss. In terms of adverse events, the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events was higher in Asians than in non-Asians at the same dose, while the incidence of metabolic and nutrition disorders was higher in non-Asians than in Asians.

CONCLUSION

Tirzepatide is a novel agent for the treatment of diabetes and has different efficacy in Asians and non-Asians. Asians were more likely to experience weight loss and gastrointestinal adverse events, whereas non-Asians were more likely to have better glycemic control and more metabolic and nutritional disorders.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42023489588.

Real-world use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective database study (DEFINE-G)

AIMS

To understand glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) use in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Japan.

METHODS

Characteristics of people receiving GLP-1RAs between 2016 and 2020 in the J-DREAMS database were investigated. Changes in HbA1c, body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), and proportion reaching HbA1c targets were analysed in GLP-1RA-naïve patients 6-24 months after GLP-1RA initiation.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with GLP-1RA prescriptions increased from 3.6% to 9.6% during 2016-2020. Among GLP-1RA-naïve patients (n = 569), HbA1c reduced -‍0.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] -0.7, -0.5; -6 mmol/mol [95% CI -7, -5]) 6 months after treatment initiation and stabilised until 24 months (P < 0.001); mean BW and BMI reduced -1.05 kg (95% CI -1.31, -0.80) and -0.43 kg/m2 (95% CI -0.53, -0.32), respectively, at 6 months (P < 0.001). The proportion of GLP-1RA-naïve patients with HbA1c < 7.0% (<53 mmol/mol) and <8.0% (<64 mmol/mol) increased from 16% to 27% and 43% to 65%, respectively, and an HbA1c reduction of ≥1.0% (≥11 mmol/mol) was observed in 33% of patients after 6 months (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows increased GLP-1RA prescriptions over 5 years. HbA1c and BW reduced 6 months after GLP-1RA initiation in patients with T2D in a Japanese real-world setting.

Effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in Asian versus White patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

The study aimed to assess the treatment effects of the two medications on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in Asian compared with White patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL were searched up to October 31, 2022. We included the trials that assessed the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) or sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) versus placebo in Asian and White patients with T2DM on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and kidney outcomes. The Bucher method was used to perform an indirect comparison for estimating the differences in treatment effects of GLP-1 RA and SGLT2i between Asian versus White patients. Interaction tests were also performed for treatment-by-race to assess the potential effect modification by race.

RESULTS

We included 22 publications from 13 randomized trials. For MACE, there were no differences in treatment effects of GLP-1 RA (HR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.68-1.04) or SGLT2i (HR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.72-1.13) in Asian versus White patients. No differences in treatment effects of SGLT2i on kidney outcomes in Asian versus White patients were found (HR = 1.01, 95% CI: 0.75-1.36). There was no significant effect modification by race on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no significant differences in treatment effects of GLP-1 RA or SGLT2i for MACE between Asian and White patients with T2DM. Likewise, no significant differences in treatment effects of SGLT2i on kidney outcomes were found between Asian and White patients.

Renoprotective Effect of Thai Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated with SGLT-2 Inhibitors versus DPP-4 Inhibitors: A Real-World Observational Study

Background

Recently, there is a lack of studies comparing the renoprotective effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. This study therefore aimed to investigate the renoprotective effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors on Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Patient medication records of all patients who used those two antidiabetic classes at Fort Wachirawut Hospital were reviewed. Renal function tests, blood glucose levels, and other baseline characteristics were collected. Continuous variables were compared within the group using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and between groups using the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

There were 388 and 691 patients with SGLT-2 inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors, respectively. The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of the SGLT-2 inhibitor group was significantly lower from baseline at 18 months of treatment, as well as the DPP-4 inhibitor group. However, the trend of eGFR reduction in patients with baseline eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m² was smaller than those with baseline eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m². In addition, the fasting blood sugar and haemoglobin A1c levels significantly decreased from baseline in both the groups.

Conclusions

Both SGLT-2 inhibitors and DPP-4 inhibitors showed the same trends of eGFR reductions from baseline in Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, SGLT-2 inhibitors should be considered in patients with impaired renal function rather than in all T2DM patients.

Risk Amplifiers for Vascular Disease and CKD in South Asians: When Intrinsic β-Cell Dysfunction Meets a High-Carbohydrate Diet

South Asians, comprising almost one fourth of the world population, are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and CKD compared with other ethnic groups. This has major public health implications in South Asia and in other parts of the world to where South Asians have immigrated. The interplay of various modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors confers this risk. Traditional models of cardiometabolic disease progression and CKD evaluation may not be applicable in this population with a unique genetic predisposition and phenotype. A wider understanding of dietary and lifestyle influences, genetic and metabolic risk factors, and the pitfalls of conventional equations estimating kidney function in this population are required in providing care for kidney diseases. Targeted screening of this population for metabolic and vascular risk factors and individualized management plan for disease management may be necessary. Addressing unhealthy dietary patterns, promoting physical activity, and medication management that adheres to cultural factors are crucial steps to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular disease and CKD in this population. In South Asian countries, a large rural and urban community-based multipronged approach using polypills and community health workers to decrease the incidence of these diseases may be cost-effective.

Efficacy and Safety of Ertugliflozin Added to Metformin: A Pooled Population from Asia with Type 2 Diabetes and Overweight or Obesity

INTRODUCTION

The efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin have not been well characterized in Asian populations with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and overweight or obesity as defined by the Chinese Diabetes Society [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 24 kg/m²].

METHODS

These post hoc analyses of pooled data from two randomized, double-blind, 26-week studies assessed the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin (5 mg or 15 mg) compared with placebo in participants from Asia with T2D and baseline BMI ≥ 24 kg/m², with inadequate glycemic control on metformin. Longitudinal analyses were used to calculate least squares (LS) mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] change from baseline in glycemic indices and body weight. The proportions of participants achieving efficacy targets and experiencing adverse events (AEs) were assessed.

RESULTS

The 445 participants had a mean age of 55.5 years, T2D duration 6.6 years, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 8.1%, and BMI 27.6 kg/m². At week 26, placebo-adjusted LS mean (95% CI) changes from baseline for ertugliflozin 5 mg and 15 mg, respectively, were - 0.78% (- 0.95% to - 0.61%) and - 0.80% (- 0.98% to - 0.63%) for HbA1c, and - 1.74 kg (- 2.29 kg to - 1.19 kg) and - 2.04 kg (- 2.60 kg to - 1.48 kg) for body weight. A greater proportion of participants receiving ertugliflozin 5 mg and 15 mg versus placebo, respectively, achieved HbA1c < 7.0% (42.1% and 46.3% vs. 13.9%), body weight reduction ≥ 5% (35.5% and 38.3% vs. 11.1%), and systolic blood pressure < 130 mmHg (42.4% and 34.5% vs. 21.7%). The proportion of participants with AEs was 52.6% (ertugliflozin 5 mg), 52.3% (ertugliflozin 15 mg), and 55.6% (placebo).

CONCLUSIONS

In participants from Asia with T2D inadequately controlled by metformin monotherapy, and BMI ≥24 kg/m², ertugliflozin (5 mg or 15 mg) resulted in greater glycemic and body weight reductions compared with placebo and was generally well tolerated.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov identifiers NCT02033889, NCT02630706.

Stratified glucose-lowering response to vildagliptin and pioglitazone by obesity and hypertriglyceridemia in a randomized crossover trial

Background

Understanding which group of patients with type 2 diabetes will have the most glucose lowering response to certain medications (which target different aspects of glucose metabolism) is the first step in precision medicine.

Aims

We hypothesized that people with type 2 diabetes who generally have high insulin resistance, such as people of Māori/Pacific ethnicity, and those with obesity and/or hypertriglyceridemia (OHTG), would have greater glucose-lowering by pioglitazone (an insulin sensitizer) versus vildagliptin (an insulin secretagogue).

Methods

A randomised, open-label, two-period crossover trial was conducted in New Zealand. Adults with type 2 diabetes, HbA1c>58mmol/mol (>7.5%), received 16 weeks of either pioglitazone (30mg) or vildagliptin (50mg) daily, then switched to the other medication over for another 16 weeks of treatment. Differences in HbA1c were tested for interaction with ethnicity or OHTG, controlling for baseline HbA1c using linear mixed models. Secondary outcomes included weight, blood pressure, side-effects and diabetes treatment satisfaction.

Results

346 participants were randomised (55% Māori/Pacific) between February 2019 to March 2020. HbA1c after pioglitazone was lower than after vildagliptin (mean difference -4.9mmol/mol [0.5%]; 95% CI -6.3, -3.5; p<0.0001). Primary intention-to-treat analysis showed no significant interaction effect by Māori/Pacific vs other ethnicity (1.5mmol/mol [0.1%], 95% CI -0.8, 3.7), and per-protocol analysis (-1.2mmol/mol [0.1%], 95% CI -4.1, 1.7). An interaction effect (-4.7mmol/mol [0.5%], 95% CI -8.1, -1.4) was found by OHTG status. Both treatments generated similar treatment satisfaction scores, although there was greater weight gain and greater improvement in lipids and liver enzymes after pioglitazone than vildagliptin.

Conclusions

Comparative glucose-lowering by pioglitazone and vildagliptin is not different between Māori/Pacific people compared with other New Zealand ethnic groups. Presence of OHTG predicts greater glucose lowering by pioglitazone than vildagliptin.

Clinical trial registration

www.anzctr.org.au, identifier (ACTRN12618001907235).

Management of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease: The diabetology perspective

The metabolic syndrome as a consequence of the obesity pandemic resulted in a substantial increase in the prevalence of metabolic-associated fatty live disease (MAFLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Because of the similarity in pathobiology shared between T2DM and MAFLD, both disorders coexist in many patients and may potentiate the disease-related outcomes with rapid progression and increased complications of the individual diseases. In fact, awareness about this coexistence and the risk of complications are often overlooked by both hepatologists and diabetologists. Management of these individual disorders in a patient should be addressed wholistically using an appropriate multidisciplinary team approach involving both the specialists and, when necessary, liaising with dieticians and surgeons. This comprehensive review is to compile the current evidence from a diabetologist's perspective on MAFLD and T2DM and to suggest optimal management strategies.

Safety and Effectiveness of Empagliflozin in Korean Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Results from a Nationwide Post-Marketing Surveillance

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of empagliflozin in routine clinical settings, we collected and assessed the clinical profiles of Korean patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

This was a post-marketing surveillance study of empagliflozin 10 and 25 mg. Information on adverse events and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) was collected as safety data sets. Available effectiveness outcomes, including glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, fasting plasma glucose, body weight, and blood pressure, were assessed.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of ADRs was 5.14% in the safety dataset (n=3,231). Pollakiuria, pruritis genital, and weight loss were the most common ADRs. ADRs of special interest accounted for only 1.18%, and there were no serious events that led to mortality or hospitalization. In the effectiveness data set (n=2,567), empagliflozin significantly reduced the mean HbA1c level and body weight during the study period by -0.68%±1.39% and -1.91±3.37 kg (both P<0.0001), respectively. In addition, shorter disease duration, absence of dyslipidemia, and higher baseline HbA1c levels were identified as the clinical features characteristic of a "responder" to empagliflozin therapy.

CONCLUSION

Empagliflozin is a safe and potent glucose-lowering drug in routine use among Korean patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is expected to have better glycemic efficacy in Korean patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Precision Medicine in Diabetes

Tailoring treatment or management to groups of individuals based on specific clinical, molecular, and genomic features is the concept of precision medicine. Diabetes is highly heterogenous with respect to clinical manifestations, disease progression, development of complications, and drug response. The current practice for drug treatment is largely based on evidence from clinical trials that report average effects. However, around half of patients with type 2 diabetes do not achieve glycaemic targets despite having a high level of adherence and there are substantial differences in the incidence of adverse outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to identify predictive markers that can inform differential drug responses at the point of prescribing. Recent advances in molecular genetics and increased availability of real-world and randomised trial data have started to increase our understanding of disease heterogeneity and its impact on potential treatments for specific groups. Leveraging information from simple clinical features (age, sex, BMI, ethnicity, and co-prescribed medications) and genomic markers has a potential to identify sub-groups who are likely to benefit from a given drug with minimal adverse effects. In this chapter, we will discuss the state of current evidence in the discovery of clinical and genetic markers that have the potential to optimise drug treatment in type 2 diabetes.

Effect of empagliflozin versus linagliptin on body composition in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes treated with premixed insulin

Insulin therapy often increases body weight and leads to visceral fat accumulation. Progression in diabetes is also associated with accelerated loss of muscle mass. Little is known about body composition changes in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients on insulin therapy who use sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors versus dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors. This study examined the effect of 25 mg of empagliflozin compared with 5 mg of linagliptin for 24 weeks on body weight and body composition in patients with T2DM on premixed insulin. Body composition was assessed with bioelectrical impedance analysis. The mean difference between the linagliptin and empagliflozin groups in terms of mean body weight change from baseline to 24 weeks was - 1.80 kg (95% CI - 2.57, - 1.03). Empagliflozin also significantly reduced muscle mass (- 1.39 kg, 95% CI - 2.49, - 0.29) and total body water (- 1.07 kg, 95% CI - 1.88, - 0.27) compared with linagliptin. Compared to linagliptin, empagliflozin decreased body fat mass more from baseline to week 24, but this was not significant (- 0.31 kg, 95% CI - 1.51, 0.90). Further research on insulin-treated T2DM patients is necessary to investigate the long-term effects of SGLT2 and DPP4 inhibitors on body composition, as well as their effects on muscle strength and physical function.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT03458715, registration date: March 8, 2018.

Endogenous GLP-1 levels play an important role in determining the efficacy of DPP-IV Inhibitors in both prediabetes and type 2 diabetes

Background

In contrast to Western population, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels are preserved in some East Asian population with type 2 diabetes (T2D), explaining why dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors are more effective in East Asians. We assessed whether differences in endogenous GLP-1 levels resulted in different treatment responses to DPP-IV inhibitors in prediabetes and T2D.

Methods

A prospective 12-week study using linagliptin 5mg once daily in 50 subjects (28 prediabetes and 22 T2D) who were stratified into high versus low fasting GLP-1 groups. A 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed at week 0 and 12. Primary outcomes were changes in HbA1c, fasting and post-OGTT glucose after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included changes in insulin resistance and beta cell function indices.

Results

There was a greater HbA1c reduction in subjects with high GLP-1 compared to low GLP-1 levels in both the prediabetes and T2D populations [least-squares mean (LS-mean) change of -0.33% vs. -0.11% and -1.48% vs. -0.90% respectively)]. Linagliptin significantly reduced glucose excursion by 18% in high GLP-1 compared with 8% in low GLP-1 prediabetes groups. The reduction in glucose excursion was greater in high GLP-1 compared to low GLP-1 T2D by 30% and 21% respectively. There were significant LS-mean between-group differences in fasting glucose (-0.95 mmol/L), 2-hour glucose post-OGTT (-2.4 mmol/L) in the high GLP-1 T2D group. Improvement in insulin resistance indices were seen in the high GLP-1 T2D group while high GLP-1 prediabetes group demonstrated improvement in beta cell function indices. No incidence of hypoglycemia was reported.

Conclusions

Linagliptin resulted in a greater HbA1c reduction in the high GLP-1 prediabetes and T2D compared to low GLP-1 groups. Endogenous GLP-1 level play an important role in determining the efficacy of DPP-IV inhibitors irrespective of the abnormal glucose tolerance states.

Exploring ethnic representativeness in diabetes clinical trial enrolment from 2000 to 2020: a chronological survey

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Ethnic representativeness of participant enrolment in diabetes RCTs involving multiple ethnicities remains unknown. The aims of this study were to evaluate the status and temporal trend of ethnic representativeness in enrolment to diabetes RCTs, and to assess under-enrolment of non-white ethnic groups and explore trial characteristics associated with under-enrolment.

METHODS

We conducted a chronological survey by systematically searching the literature to include eligible RCTs published between January 2000 and December 2020. We assessed temporal trends in enrolment of ethnic groups in the included trials. Univariable logistic regression was used to explore the association between trial characteristics and under-enrolment of non-white groups, using a participant to prevalence ratio of <0.8 to define under-enrolment. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021229100).

RESULTS

We included 405 RCTs for analysis (327 multi-country trials, 69 conducted in the USA and nine conducted in the UK). The median enrolment rate of all non-white groups was 24.0% in the overall RCTs. Trials conducted in the USA and the UK had median enrolment rates of 29.0% and 12.0% for all non-white groups, respectively. There was a temporal trend towards increased participation of non-white ethnic groups in the overall RCTs; however, no significant improvement over time was found in the US or UK trials. Non-white groups were under-enrolled in most included trials: 62.3% (43/69) in US trials and 77.8% (7/9) in UK trials. The US trials with a high female proportion were associated with lower odds of under-enrolment of all non-white groups (OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.07, 0.65), while trials receiving funding from industry showed increased odds of under-enrolment (OR 4.64; 95% CI 1.50, 14.35). Outpatient enrolment and intervention duration were significantly associated with under-enrolment of Black participants. Only a small proportion of trials reported subgroup results or explored the effect modification by ethnicity.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

A temporal trend towards increased non-white ethnic enrolment was found in diabetes RCTs globally, but not in the USA or the UK. Non-white ethnic groups were under-represented in the majority of diabetes trials conducted in the USA and the UK. Some trial characteristics may be associated with non-white under-enrolment in diabetes trials. These findings provide some evidence for non-white ethnic representativeness in diabetes trials over the past two decades, and highlight the need for more effective strategies and endeavours to alleviate under-enrolment of non-white ethnic groups.

Comparative analysis of the efficacies of probiotic supplementation and glucose-lowering drugs for the treatment of type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of probiotics and glucose-lowering drugs (thiazolidinedione [TZD], glucagon-like pep-tide-1 receptor agonists [GLP-1 RA], dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors, and sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors [SGLT-2i]) in patients with type 2 diabetes from randomized con-trolled trials (RCTs). The PubMed, Web of science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched on the treatment effects of probiotics and glucose-lowering drugs on glycemia, lipids, and blood pressure metabolism published between Jan 2015 and April 2021. We performed meta-analyses using the random-effects model. We included 25 RCTs (2,843 participants). Overall, GLP-1RA, SGLT-2i, and TZD significantly reduce fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), whereas GLP-1 RA increased the risk of hypoglycaemia. Multispecies probiotics decrease FBS, total cholesterol (TC), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP). Moreover, subgroup analyses indicated that participants aged >55 years, BMI ≥30 kg/m2, longer duration of intervention, and subjects from Eastern countries, showed significantly higher reduction in FBS and HbA1c, TC, TG and SBP. This meta-analysis revealed that including multiple probiotic rather than glucose-lowering drugs might be more beneficial regarding T2D prevention who suffering from simultaneously hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension.

Pathophysiology, phenotypes and management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Indian and Chinese populations

Nearly half of all adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) live in India and China. These populations have an underlying predisposition to deficient insulin secretion, which has a key role in the pathogenesis of T2DM. Indian and Chinese people might be more susceptible to hepatic or skeletal muscle insulin resistance, respectively, than other populations, resulting in specific forms of insulin deficiency. Cluster-based phenotypic analyses demonstrate a higher frequency of severe insulin-deficient diabetes mellitus and younger ages at diagnosis, lower β-cell function, lower insulin resistance and lower BMI among Indian and Chinese people compared with European people. Individuals diagnosed earliest in life have the most aggressive course of disease and the highest risk of complications. These characteristics might contribute to distinctive responses to glucose-lowering medications. Incretin-based agents are particularly effective for lowering glucose levels in these populations; they enhance incretin-augmented insulin secretion and suppress glucagon secretion. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors might also lower blood levels of glucose especially effectively among Asian people, while α-glucosidase inhibitors are better tolerated in east Asian populations versus other populations. Further research is needed to better characterize and address the pathophysiology and phenotypes of T2DM in Indian and Chinese populations, and to further develop individualized treatment strategies.

Effect of race on cardiometabolic responses to once-weekly exenatide: insights from the Exenatide Study of Cardiovascular Event Lowering (EXSCEL)

Background

To determine whether there were racial differences in short-term cardiometabolic responses to once-weekly exenatide (EQW) in the Exenatide Study of Cardiovascular Event Lowering (EXSCEL).

Methods

EXSCEL enrolled 14,752 patients with type 2 diabetes (hemoglobin A_1c (HbA_1c) 6.5–10.0% [48–86 mmol/mol]) with or without cardiovascular disease who were randomized double-blind to EQW or placebo. Background glucose-lowering/other cardiovascular therapies were unaltered for 6 months post-randomization unless clinically essential, facilitating comparison of EQW-associated effects in 14,665 evaluable participants self-identifying as White (n = 11,113), Asian (n = 1444), Black (n = 870), or Other Race (n = 1,238. Placebo-adjusted 6 month absolute changes in cardiometabolic variables were assessed using generalized linear models.

Results

Mean 6-month placebo-adjusted HbA_1c reductions were similar in the four groups (range 0.54–0.67% [5.9 to 7.3 mmol/mol], P = 0.11 for race×treatment interaction), with no significant difference in Asians (reference) versus other groups after covariate adjustment (all P ≥ 0.10). Six-month placebo-adjusted mean changes in systolic (−1.8 to 0.0 mmHg) and diastolic (0.2 to 1.2 mmHg) blood pressure, serum LDL (− 0.06 to 0.02 mmol/L) and HDL (0.00 to 0.01 mmol/L) cholesterol, and serum triglycerides (−0.1 to 0.0 mmol/L) were similar in the racial groups (P ≥ 0.19 for race×treatment interaction and all P ≥ 0.13 for comparisons of Asians with other races). Resting pulse rate increased more in Asians (4 beats/min) than in other groups (≤ 3 beats/min, P = 0.016 for race×treatment interaction and all P ≤ 0.050 for comparisons of Asians with other races).

Conclusions

Short-term cardiometabolic responses to EQW were similar in the main racial groups in EXSCEL, apart from a greater pulse rate increase in Asians.

Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov NCT01144338.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-022-01555-z.

The role of oral semaglutide in managing type 2 diabetes in Indian clinical settings: Addressing the unmet needs

AIMS

Despite their established benefits, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) remain underutilized for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management, which indicates that subcutaneous injection is an unfavorable mode of delivery from the patient's perspective. This review summarizes existing challenges related to medication adherence and the use of antihyperglycemia injectables, revisits the established safety and efficacy of oral semaglutide, and explores its features and considerations for use among the Indian T2DM population.

METHODS

We performed a literature search using MEDLINE and the National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials Registry from July 1, 2016, to July 1, 2021, to identify publications on oral semaglutide approval, T2DM treatment guidelines, and clinical evidence for oral drug formulation.

RESULTS

Oral semaglutide is the first oral GLP-1 RA approved for T2DM patients based on phase 3, randomized PIONEER trials. The multitargeted action of this drug offers glycemic control, weight control, and cardiovascular, renal, and additional benefits, including patient convenience and enhanced medication adherence. In addition to achieving glycemic control, the cost of semaglutide is reported to be lower than other GLP-1 RA in the West, thus potentially mitigating the economic burden that appears to be high among the Indian population.

CONCLUSIONS

Currently, there is no data available on oral semaglutide in Indian clinical settings. However, significant improvements in glycemic control, cardiac and renal benefits, as well as weight loss across clinical trials should encourage clinicians to prioritize oral semaglutide over other antidiabetic agents.

Expert Opinion: Optimum Clinical Approach to Combination-Use of SGLT2i + DPP4i in the Indian Diabetes Setting

The Asian-Indian phenotype of type 2 diabetes mellitus is uniquely characterized for cardio-metabolic risk. In the context of implementing patient-centric holistic cardio-metabolic risk management as a priority, the choice of various combinations of antidiabetic agents should be individualized. Combined therapy with two classes of antidiabetic agents, namely, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors, target several pathophysiological pathways. The wide-ranging clinical outcomes associated with this combination, including improvement of glycemia and adiposity, reduction of metabolic and vascular risk, safety, and simplicity for sustainable compliance, are extremely relevant to the Asian Indian patient population living with T2DM. In this review we describe the available evidence in detail and present a rational practical guidance for the optimum clinical use of this combination in this patient population.

Trends in glycemic control in patients with insulin therapy compared with non-insulin or no drugs in type 2 diabetes in Japan: a long-term view of real-world treatment between 2002 and 2018 (JDDM 66)

INTRODUCTION

We investigated trends in the proportion of diabetes treatment and glycemic control, which may be altered by recent advances in insulin and non-insulin drugs, in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A serial cross-sectional study was performed using a multicenter large-population database from the Japan Diabetes Clinical Data Management study group. Patients with type 2 diabetes who attended clinics belonging to the study group between 2002 and 2018 were included to examine trends in glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) by treatment group using multivariable non-linear regression model.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with insulin only decreased from 15.0% to 3.6%, patients with insulin+non-insulin drugs increased from 8.1% to 15.1%, patients with non-insulin drugs increased from 50.8% to 67.0%, and those with no drugs decreased from 26.1% to 14.4% from 2002 to 2018, respectively. The HbA1c levels of each group, except for no drugs, continued to decrease until 2014 (unadjusted mean HbA1c (%) from 2002 to 2014: from 7.89 to 7.45 for insulin only, from 8.09 to 7.63 for insulin+non-insulin, and from 7.51 to 6.98 for non-insulin) and remained unchanged thereafter. Among insulin-treated patients, use of human insulin decreased, use of long-acting analog insulin increased, and concomitant use of non-insulin drugs increased (from 35.1% in 2002 to 80.9% in 2018), which included increased use of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, and the persistently high use of metformin.

CONCLUSIONS

During the past two decades, combined use of insulin and non-insulin drugs increased and glycemic control improved and leveled off after 2014 in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes. Further studies of the trend in association with age and factors related to metabolic syndrome are necessary to investigate strategies aiming at personalized medicine in diabetes care.

Comparable Cardiorenal Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors and GLP-1RAs in Asian and White Populations: An Updated Meta-analysis of Results From Randomized Outcome Trials

BACKGROUND

Whether the cardiorenal benefits of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are comparable between White and Asian populations remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To compare the cardiorenal benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1RAs between White and Asian populations and to compare the cardiorenal benefits between the two agents in Asian patients.

DATA SOURCES

Electronic databases were searched up to 28 March 2021.

STUDY SELECTION

We included the cardiovascular (CV) and renal outcome trials of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1RAs where investigators reported major adverse CV events (MACE), CV death/hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), or composite renal outcomes with stratification by race.

DATA EXTRACTION

We extracted the hazard ratio of each outcome stratified by race (Asian vs. White populations).

DATA SYNTHESIS

In 10 SGLT2 inhibitor trials, there was no significant difference between Asian and White populations for MACE (P = 0.55), CV death/HHF (P = 0.87), or composite renal outcomes (P = 0.97). In seven GLP-1RA trials, we observed a similar MACE benefit between Asian and White populations (P = 0.10). In our networkmeta-analysis we found a comparable benefit for MACE between SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1RAs in Asian patients.

LIMITATIONS

The data were from stratified analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

There appear to be comparable cardiorenal benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1RAs between Asian and White participants enrolled in CV and renal outcome trials; the two therapies seem to have similar CV benefits for Asian participants.

Prescribing Patterns and Response to Antihyperglycemic Agents Among Novel Clusters of Type 2 Diabetes in Asian Indians

Aim: To assess the prescribing patterns and response to different classes of antihyperglycemic agents in novel clusters of type 2 diabetes (T2D) described in India. Materials and Methods: We attempted to replicate the earlier described clusters of T2D, in 32,867 individuals with new-onset T2D (within 2 years of diagnosis) registered between October 2013 and December 2020 at 15 diabetes clinics located across India, by means of k-means clustering utilizing 6 clinically relevant variables. Individuals who had follow-up glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) up to 2 years were included for the drug response analysis (n = 13,247). Results: Among the 32,867 participants included in the study, 20,779 (63.2%) were males. The average age at diagnosis was 45 years and mean HbA1c at baseline was 8.9%. The same four clusters described in India earlier were replicated. Forty percent of the study participants belonged to the mild age-related diabetes cluster, followed by insulin-resistant obese diabetes (27%), severe insulin-deficient diabetes (21%), and combined insulin-resistant and insulin-deficient diabetes (12%) clusters. The most frequently used antihyperglycemic agents were sulfonylureas, metformin, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors apart from insulin. While there were significant differences in HbA1c reduction between drugs across clusters, these were largely driven by differences in the baseline (pretreatment) HbA1c. Conclusions: In this new cohort, we were able to reliably replicate the four subtypes of T2D earlier described in Asian Indians. Prescribing patterns show limited usage of newer antihyperglycemic agents across all clusters. Randomized clinical trials are required to establish differential drug responses between clusters.

Safety and tolerability of linagliptin in Asians with type 2 diabetes: a pooled analysis of 4457 patients from 21 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Safety and tolerability of glucose-lowering drugs is a key consideration for use in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We evaluated the safety and tolerability of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor linagliptin in Asian patients with T2D.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a post-hoc, descriptive pooled analysis of 21 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of linagliptin in T2D patients lasting ≤52 weeks. We evaluated adverse events (AEs) and laboratory parameters in Asian participants living in Asia, both overall and in the East Asian subgroup.

RESULTS

This analysis included 4457 Asian patients overall (2712 receiving linagliptin; 1745 receiving placebo) and 3057 (68.6%) East Asians. AEs were reported in 1510 (55.7%) Asian patients receiving linagliptin and 1032 (59.1%) receiving placebo but were considered drug-related in only 13.0% of each group. Serious AEs occurred in 109 (4.0%) linagliptin patients and 90 (5.2%) placebo patients. The most common AEs were nasopharyngitis (6.4% linagliptin, 7.3% placebo), upper respiratory tract infection (5.7% linagliptin, 6.5% placebo), and hypoglycemia (7.3% linagliptin, 6.3% placebo). One linagliptin patient had pancreatitis; none had bullous pemphigoid. No clinically relevant mean changes in laboratory parameters occurred. These findings were consistent in East Asians.

CONCLUSIONS

Linagliptin is well tolerated in Asian T2D patients, including East Asians, with low risk for AEs.

A Higher Serum Anion Gap Is Associated with the Risk of Progressing to Impaired Fasting Glucose and Diabetes

Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) is a reversible intermediate hyperglycemia stage with an increasing risk of diabetes and related complications. Our study was designed to identify the relationship between the serum anion gap and the risk of progressing to impaired fasting glucose and diabetes. Here, we performed a prospective, population-based study among 1191 Chinese individuals aged 22-87 years who took health examinations annually between 2006 and 2012 including clinical features and plasma metabolites. All of the participants had no history of diabetes or related chronic complications. Logistic regression analysis was designed to examine the associations between clinical and metabolomic factors and the risk of developing IFG or diabetes. Among them, 58 subjects whose fasting glucose were between 6.1 and 7 mmol/L were diagnosed as IFG or diabetes. After adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), potassium, and albumin at baseline, the participants in the upper tertiles of serum anion gap (SAG) had higher odds of progressing to IFG or diabetes than those in the lower tertiles. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was analyzed, and the optimal cutoff level for the anion gap to predict incident IFG or diabetes was 13.76 mmol/L, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.623. Our data demonstrate that a higher serum anion gap is associated with the risk of developing IFG or diabetes.

Genome-Wide Meta-analysis Identifies Genetic Variants Associated With Glycemic Response to Sulfonylureas

OBJECTIVE

Sulfonylureas, the first available drugs for the management of type 2 diabetes, remain widely prescribed today. However, there exists significant variability in glycemic response to treatment. We aimed to establish heritability of sulfonylurea response and identify genetic variants and interacting treatments associated with HbA1c reduction.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

As an initiative of the Metformin Genetics Plus Consortium (MetGen Plus) and the DIabetes REsearCh on patient straTification (DIRECT) consortium, 5,485 White Europeans with type 2 diabetes treated with sulfonylureas were recruited from six referral centers in Europe and North America. We first estimated heritability using the generalized restricted maximum likelihood approach and then undertook genome-wide association studies of glycemic response to sulfonylureas measured as HbA1c reduction after 12 months of therapy followed by meta-analysis. These results were supported by acute glipizide challenge in humans who were naïve to type 2 diabetes medications, cis expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL), and functional validation in cellular models. Finally, we examined for possible drug-drug-gene interactions.

RESULTS

After establishing that sulfonylurea response is heritable (mean ± SEM 37 ± 11%), we identified two independent loci near the GXYLT1 and SLCO1B1 genes associated with HbA1c reduction at a genome-wide scale (P < 5 × 10-8). The C allele at rs1234032, near GXYLT1, was associated with 0.14% (1.5 mmol/mol), P = 2.39 × 10-8), lower reduction in HbA1c. Similarly, the C allele was associated with higher glucose trough levels (β = 1.61, P = 0.005) in healthy volunteers in the SUGAR-MGH given glipizide (N = 857). In 3,029 human whole blood samples, the C allele is a cis eQTL for increased expression of GXYLT1 (β = 0.21, P = 2.04 × 10-58). The C allele of rs10770791, in an intronic region of SLCO1B1, was associated with 0.11% (1.2 mmol/mol) greater reduction in HbA1c (P = 4.80 × 10-8). In 1,183 human liver samples, the C allele at rs10770791 is a cis eQTL for reduced SLCO1B1 expression (P = 1.61 × 10-7), which, together with functional studies in cells expressing SLCO1B1, supports a key role for hepatic SLCO1B1 (encoding OATP1B1) in regulation of sulfonylurea transport. Further, a significant interaction between statin use and SLCO1B1 genotype was observed (P = 0.001). In statin nonusers, C allele homozygotes at rs10770791 had a large absolute reduction in HbA1c (0.48 ± 0.12% [5.2 ± 1.26 mmol/mol]), equivalent to that associated with initiation of a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

We have identified clinically important genetic effects at genome-wide levels of significance, and important drug-drug-gene interactions, which include commonly prescribed statins. With increasing availability of genetic data embedded in clinical records these findings will be important in prescribing glucose-lowering drugs.

Structured self-monitoring of blood glucose is associated with more appropriate therapeutic interventions than unstructured self-monitoring: A novel analysis of data from the PRISMA trial

AIMS

To investigate the relationship between single therapeutic interventions and indicatorsofglycemic control in the PRISMA trial, a large study comparing the effects of intensive structured SMBG (ISM) vs. active control (AC) in non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

Information was collected at four time points, corresponding to months 3, 6, 9, and 12 and visits 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Data on therapeutic interventions, HbA_1c levels and the number of hypoglycemic episodes at each visit were analyzed.

RESULTS

Intensification of drug therapy occurred in 20.3% vs. 15.6%, and no change in 71.8% vs. 78.7% of visits for the ISM and AC groups, respectively. On the other hand, de-intensification and redistribution of drugs and/or drug dose occurred in a similar proportion of visits. Intensification of drug therapy in both groups was associated with significant reductions in HbA_1c vs. the previous visit, while de-intensification of therapy led to a significant increase in HbA_1c in the AC group only.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data strongly support that structured SMBG has clinical value in reducing HbA_1c in non-insulin-treated T2D and suggest that this clinical benefit may be mediated by more appropriate and timely changes in drug therapy.

Glycemic Variability Impacted by SGLT2 Inhibitors and GLP 1 Agonists in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

To investigate the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists on glycemic variability (GV), the mean amplitude of glucose excursion (MAGE), mean blood glucose (MBG) levels, and percentage of time maintaining euglycemia were evaluated. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists for treating people with diabetes were selected through searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and other databases. Sixteen studies were finally analyzed. There were no differences in the reductions in MAGE after treatment with SGLT-2 inhibitors or GLP-1 agonists (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.59, 95% CI = -0.82 to -0.36 vs. SMD = -0.43, 95% CI = -0.51 to -0.35, respectively), and treatment with SGLT-2 inhibitors was associated with an increased reduction in MBG levels (SMD = -0.56, 95% CI = -0.65 to -0.48, p < 0.00001). Monotherapy and add-on therapy with medications were correlated with MAGE and MBG level reductions. In conclusion, SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists were associated with a reduction in GV and could be alternatives for treating people with diabetes.

Effect of canagliflozin on N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic heart failure according to baseline use of glucose-lowering agents

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce the risk of a deterioration in heart failure (HF) and mortality in patients with a broad range of cardiovascular risks. Recent guidelines recommend considering the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and HF, irrespective of their glycemic control status and background use of other glucose-lowering agents including metformin. However, only a small number of studies have investigated whether the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor in these patients differ by the concomitant use of other glucose-lowering agents.

METHODS

This was a post-hoc analysis of the CANDLE trial (UMIN000017669), an investigator-initiated, multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled trial. The primary aim of the analysis was to assess the effect of 24 weeks of treatment with canagliflozin, relative to glimepiride, on N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) concentration in patients with T2D and clinically stable chronic HF. In the present analysis, the effect of canagliflozin on NT-proBNP concentration was assessed in the patients according to their baseline use of other glucose-lowering agents.

RESULTS

Almost all patients in the CANDLE trial presented as clinically stable (New York Heart Association class I to II), with about 70% of participants having HF with a preserved ejection fraction phenotype (defined as a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥ 50%) at baseline. Of the 233 patients randomized to either canagliflozin (100 mg daily) or glimepiride (starting dose 0.5 mg daily), 85 (36.5%) had not been taking any glucose-lowering agents at baseline (naïve). Of the 148 patients who had been taking at least one glucose-lowering agent at baseline (non-naïve), 44 (29.7%) and 127 (85.8%) had received metformin or a dipeptidyl dipeptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, respectively. The group ratio (canagliflozin vs. glimepiride) of proportional changes in the geometric means of NT-proBNP concentration was 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76 to 1.18, p = 0.618) for the naïve subgroup, 0.92 (95% CI 0.79 to1.07, p = 0.288) for the non-naïve subgroup, 0.90 (95% CI 0.68 to 1.20, p = 0.473) for the metformin-user subgroup, and 0.91 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.08, p = 0.271) for the DPP-4 inhibitor-user subgroup. No heterogeneity in the effect of canagliflozin, relative to glimepiride, on NT-proBNP concentration was observed in the non-naïve subgroups compared to that in the naïve subgroup.

CONCLUSION

The impact of canagliflozin treatment on NT-proBNP concentration appears to be independent of the background use of diabetes therapy in the patient population examined. Trial registration University Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry, number 000017669. Registered on May 25, 2015.

Effects of anti-diabetes medications on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes: a rapid evidence assessment and narrative synthesis

BACKGROUND

The cardiovascular and kidney safety of glucose-lowering drugs is a key concern in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We evaluated cardiorenal outcomes with glucose-lowering drugs in Asian patients, who comprise over half of T2D cases globally.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A rapid evidence assessment was conducted for phase III or IV, double-blind, randomized clinical trials of glucose-lowering drugs reporting cardiovascular or kidney outcomes for Asian T2D patients (Embase, Medline, Cochrane Library databases: 1 January 2008-14 June 2020).

RESULTS

Fifty-four publications reported exploratory data for Asians from 18 trials of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, and insulin analogs. SGLT2 inhibitors and several GLP-1 receptor agonists were associated with reduced cardiovascular risk in Asian T2D patients, while DPP-4 inhibitors exhibited cardiovascular safety. SGLT2 inhibitors also appeared to reduce renal risk; however, kidney outcomes were lacking for DPP-4 inhibitors other than linagliptin and GLP-1 receptor agonists in Asian patients. Insulin data were inconclusive as the only trial conducted used different types of insulin as both treatment and comparator.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiorenal outcomes with glucose-lowering drugs in Asian T2D patients were similar to outcomes in the overall multinational cohorts of these trials. DPP-4 inhibitors appear to demonstrate cardiovascular safety in Asians, while SGLT2 inhibitors and some GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce cardiorenal and cardiovascular risk, respectively.

Challenges Involved in Incorporating Personalised Treatment Plan as Routine Care of Patients with Diabetes

Diabetes is a heterogenous disorder, and patients with this disorder vary considerably in their clinical presentation, response to therapy and risk of complications. Expanding knowledge about the pathophysiology of various forms of diabetes has raised the possibility that diagnostic and therapeutic modalities can be tailored to the individual patient in a personalized manner. The recent publication of a Consensus Statement on precision diabetes care underlines the major strides made in this field in the recent past. However, while personalized diabetes care has the potential to significantly improve outcomes in patients with diabetes in a safe and cost-effective manner, its wider application presents several challenges, especially in resource-strained settings. These challenges pertain equally to precision diagnostics, precision therapeutics and precision monitoring. This article discusses some of the important challenges that care providers are likely to face in applying the personalized approach in caring for their patients with diabetes, in the context of diagnosis and management of type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and monogenic forms of diabetes. Suggestions are also presented for overcoming some of these challenges.

Incidence of diabetes in South Asian young adults compared to Pima Indians

INTRODUCTION

South Asians (SA) and Pima Indians have high prevalence of diabetes but differ markedly in body size. We hypothesize that young SA will have higher diabetes incidence than Pima Indians at comparable body mass index (BMI) levels.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used prospective cohort data to estimate age-specific, sex, and BMI-specific diabetes incidence in SA aged 20-44 years living in India and Pakistan from the Center for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South Asia Study (n=6676), and compared with Pima Indians, from Pima Indian Study (n=1852).

RESULTS

At baseline, SA were considerably less obese than Pima Indians (BMI (kg/m²): 24.4 vs 33.8; waist circumference (cm): 82.5 vs 107.0). Age-standardized diabetes incidence (cases/1000 person-years, 95% CI) was lower in SA than in Pima Indians (men: 14.2, 12.2-16.2 vs 37.3, 31.8-42.8; women: 14.8, 13.0-16.5 vs 46.1, 41.2-51.1). Risk of incident diabetes among 20-24-year-old Pima men and women was six times (relative risk (RR), 95% CI: 6.04, 3.30 to 12.0) and seven times (RR, 95% CI: 7.64, 3.73 to 18.2) higher as compared with SA men and women, respectively. In those with BMI <25 kg/m², however, the risk of diabetes was over five times in SA men than in Pima Indian men. Among those with BMI ≥30 kg/m², diabetes incidence in SA men was nearly as high as in Pima men. SA and Pima Indians had similar magnitude of association between age, sex, BMI, and insulin secretion with diabetes. The effect of family history was larger in SA, whereas that of insulin resistance was larger in Pima Indians CONCLUSIONS: In the background of relatively low insulin resistance, higher diabetes incidence in SA is driven by poor insulin secretion in SA men. The findings call for research to improve insulin secretion in early natural history of diabetes.

Incidence and pathophysiology of diabetes in South Asian adults living in India and Pakistan compared with US blacks and whites

INTRODUCTION

We compared diabetes incidence in South Asians aged ≥45 years in urban India (Chennai and Delhi) and Pakistan (Karachi), two low-income and middle-income countries undergoing rapid transition, with blacks and whites in the US, a high-income country.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We computed age-specific, sex-specific and body mass index (BMI)-specific diabetes incidence from the prospective Center for Cardiometabolic Risk Reduction in South Asia Study (n=3136) and the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study (blacks, n=3059; whites, n=9924). We assessed factors associated with incident diabetes using Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

South Asians have lower BMI and waist circumference than blacks and whites (median BMI, kg/m²: 24.9 vs 28.2 vs 26.0; median waist circumference, cm 87.5 vs 96.0 vs 95.0). South Asians were less insulin resistant than blacks and whites (age-BMI-adjusted homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, µIU/mL/mmol/L: 2.30 vs 3.45 vs 2.59), and more insulin deficient than blacks but not whites (age-BMI-adjusted homeostasis model assessment of β-cell dysfunction, µIU/mL/mmol/L: 103.7 vs 140.6 vs 103.9). Age-standardized diabetes incidence (cases/1000 person-years (95% CI)) in South Asian men was similar to black men and 1.6 times higher (1.37 to 1.92) than white men (26.0 (22.2 to 29.8) vs 26.2 (22.7 to 29.7) vs 16.1 (14.8 to 17.4)). In South Asian women, incidence was slightly higher than black women and 3 times (2.61 to 3.66) the rate in white women (31.9 (27.5 to 36.2) vs 28.6 (25.7 to 31.6) vs 11.3 (10.2 to 12.3)). In normal weight (BMI <25 kg/m²), diabetes incidence adjusted for age was 2.9 times higher (2.09 to 4.28) in South Asian men, and 5.3 times (3.64 to 7.54) in South Asian women than in white women.

CONCLUSIONS

South Asian adults have lower BMI and are less insulin resistant than US blacks and whites, but have higher diabetes incidence than US whites, especially in subgroups without obesity. Factors other than insulin resistance (ie, insulin secretion) may play an important role in the natural history of diabetes in South Asians.

Sex and ethnic differences in the cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes mellitus represents a global health concern affecting 463 million adults and is projected to rapidly rise to 700 million people by 2045. Amongst those with type 2 diabetes (T2D), there are recognised differences in the impact of the disease on different sex and ethnic groups. The relative risk of cardiovascular complications between individuals with and without T2D is higher in females than males. People of South Asian heritage are two to four times more likely to develop T2D than white people, but conversely not more likely to experience cardiovascular complications. Differences in the pathophysiological responses in these groups may identify potential areas for intervention beyond glycaemic control. In this review, we highlight key differences of diabetes-associated cardiovascular complications by sex and ethnic background, with a particular emphasis on South Asians. Evidence assessing therapeutic efficacy of new glucose lowering drugs in minority groups is limited and many major cardiovascular outcomes trials do not report ethnic specific data. Conversely, lifestyle intervention and bariatric surgery appear to have similar benefits regardless of sex and ethnic groups. We encourage future studies with better representation of women and ethnic minorities that will provide valuable data to allow better risk stratification and tailored prevention and management strategies to improve cardiovascular outcomes in T2D.

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.