Cardiovascular outcomes of type 2 diabetic patients treated with DPP‑4 inhibitors versus sulphonylureas as add-on to metformin in clinical practice

DPP-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) and sulphonylureas remain the most widely prescribed add-on treatments after metformin. However, there is limited evidence from clinical practice comparing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients prescribed these treatments, particularly among those without prior history of MACE and from vulnerable population groups. Using electronic health records from UK primary care, we undertook a retrospective cohort study with people diagnosed type-2 diabetes mellitus, comparing incidence of MACE (myocardial infarction, stroke, major cardiovascular surgery, unstable angina) and all-cause mortality among those prescribed DPP-4i versus sulphonylureas as add-on to metformin. We stratified analysis by history of MACE, age, social deprivation and comorbidities and adjusted for HbA1c, weight, smoking-status, comorbidities and medications. We identified 17,570 patients prescribed sulphonylureas and 6,267 prescribed DPP-4i between 2008-2017. Of these, 16.3% had pre-existing MACE. Primary incidence of MACE was similar in patients prescribed DPP-4i and sulphonylureas (10.3 vs 8.5 events per 1000 person-years; adjusted Hazard Ratio (adjHR): 0.94; 95%CI 0.80-1.14). For those with pre-existing MACE, rates for recurrence were higher overall, but similar between the two groups (21.8 vs 17.2 events per 1000 person-years; adjHR: 0.93; 95%CI 0.69-1.24). For those aged over 75 and with BMI less than 25 kg/m2 there was a protective effect for DPP-I, warranting further investigation. Patients initiating a DPP-4i had similar risk of cardiovascular outcomes to those initiating a sulphonylurea. This indicates the choice should be based on safety and cost, not cardiovascular prognosis, when deciding between a DPP-4i or sulphonylurea as add-on to metformin.

Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide 2·0 mg versus 1·0 mg in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN FORTE): a double-blind, randomised, phase 3B trial

BACKGROUND

Semaglutide is an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes; however, 20-30% of patients given semaglutide 1·0 mg do not reach glycaemic treatment goals. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide 2·0 mg versus 1·0 mg in adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes on a stable dose of metformin with or without a sulfonylurea.

METHODS

We did a 40-week, randomised, active-controlled, parallel-group, double-blind, phase 3B trial (SUSTAIN FORTE) at 125 outpatient clinics in ten countries. Participants (≥18 years) with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes (HbA_1c 8·0-10·0%) with metformin and with or without sulfonylurea were randomly assigned (1:1) by an interactive web-response system to 2·0 mg or 1·0 mg once-weekly semaglutide. Participants, site personnel, the clinical study group, and investigators were masked to the randomised treatment. Outcomes included change from baseline at week 40 in HbA_1c (primary outcome) and bodyweight (secondary confirmatory outcome), evaluated through trial product estimand (no treatment discontinuation or without rescue medication) and treatment policy estimand (regardless of treatment discontinuation or rescue medication) strategies. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03989232; EudraCT, 2018-004529-96; and WHO, U1111-1224-5162.

FINDINGS

Between June 19 and Nov 28, 2019, of 1515 adults assessed for eligibility, 961 participants (mean age 58·0 years [SD 10·0]; 398 [41%] women) were included. Participants were randomly assigned to once-weekly semaglutide 2·0 mg (n=480 [50%]) or 1·0 mg (n=481 [50%]); 462 (96%) patients in the semaglutide 2·0 mg group and 471 (98%) in the semaglutide 1·0 mg group completed the trial. Mean baseline HbA_1c was 8·9% (SD 0·6; 73·3 mmol/mol [SD 6·9]) and BMI was 34·6 kg/m² (SD 7·0). Mean change in HbA_1c from baseline at week 40 was -2·2 percentage points with semaglutide 2·0 mg and -1·9 percentage points with semaglutide 1·0 mg (estimated treatment difference [ETD] -0·23 percentage points [95% CI -0·36 to -0·11]; p=0·0003; trial product estimand) and -2·1 percentage points with semaglutide 2·0 mg and -1·9 percentage points with semaglutide 1·0 mg (ETD -0·18 percentage points [-0·31 to -0·04]; p=0·0098; treatment policy estimand). Mean change in bodyweight from baseline at week 40 was -6·9 kg with semaglutide 2·0 mg and -6·0 kg with semaglutide 1·0 mg (ETD -0·93 kg [95% CI -1·68 to -0·18]; p=0·015; trial product estimand) and -6·4 kg with semaglutide 2·0 mg and -5·6 kg with semaglutide 1·0 mg (ETD -0·77 kg [-1·55 to 0·01]; p=0·054; treatment policy estimand). Gastrointestinal disorders were the most commonly reported adverse events (163 [34%] in the 2·0 mg group and 148 [31%] in the 1·0 mg group). Serious adverse events were similar between treatment groups, reported for 21 (4%) participants given semaglutide 2·0 mg and 25 (5%) participants given semaglutide 1·0 mg. Three deaths were reported during the trial (one in the semaglutide 1·0 mg group and two in the semaglutide 2·0 mg group).

INTERPRETATION

Semaglutide 2·0 mg was superior to 1·0 mg in reducing HbA_1c, with additional bodyweight loss and a similar safety profile. This higher dose provides a treatment intensification option for patients with type 2 diabetes treated with semaglutide in need of additional glycaemic control.

FUNDING

Novo Nordisk.

Comparative Effectiveness of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors vs Sulfonylureas in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Importance

In the treatment of type 2 diabetes, evidence of the comparative effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors vs sulfonylureas-the second most widely used antihyperglycemic class after metformin-is lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the comparative effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors and sulfonylureas associated with the risk of all-cause mortality among patients with type 2 diabetes using metformin.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A cohort study used data from the US Department of Veterans Affairs compared the use of SGLT2 inhibitors vs sulfonylureas in individuals receiving metformin for treatment of type 2 diabetes. A total of 23 870 individuals with new use of SGLT2 inhibitors and 104 423 individuals with new use of sulfonylureas were enrolled between October 1, 2016, and February 29, 2020, and followed up until January 31, 2021.

Exposures

New use of SGLT2 inhibitors or sulfonylureas.

Main Outcomes and Measures

This study examined the outcome of all-cause mortality. Predefined variables and covariates identified by a high-dimensional variable selection algorithm were used to build propensity scores. The overlap weighting method based on the propensity scores was used to estimate the intention-to-treat effect sizes of SGLT2 inhibitor compared with sulfonylurea therapy. The inverse probability of the treatment adherence weighting method was used to estimate the per-protocol effect sizes.

Results

Among the 128 293 participants (mean [SD] age, 64.60 [9.84] years; 122 096 [95.17%] men), 23 870 received an SGLT2 inhibitor and 104 423 received a sulfonylurea. Compared with sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with reduced risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.81; 95% CI, 0.75-0.87), yielding an event rate difference of -5.15 (95% CI, -7.16 to -3.02) deaths per 1000 person-years. Compared with sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a reduced risk of death, regardless of cardiovascular disease status, in several categories of estimated glomerular filtration rate (including rates from >90 to ≤30 mL/min/1.73 m2) and in participants with no albuminuria (albumin to creatinine ratio [ACR] ≤30 mg/g), microalbuminuria (ACR >30 to ≤300 mg/g), and macroalbuminuria (ACR >300 mg/g). In per-protocol analyses, continued use of SGLT2 inhibitors was associated with a reduced risk of death compared with continued use of sulfonylureas (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.60-0.74; event rate difference, -10.10; 95% CI, -12.97 to -7.24 deaths per 1000 person-years). In additional per-protocol analyses, continued use of SGLT2 inhibitors with metformin was associated with a reduced risk of death compared with SGLT2 inhibitor treatment without metformin (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.97; event rate difference, -7.62; 95% CI, -17.12 to -0.48 deaths per 1000 person-years).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this comparative effectiveness study analyzing data from the US Department of Veterans Affairs, among patients with type 2 diabetes receiving metformin therapy, SGLT2 inhibitor treatment was associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality compared with sulfonylureas. The results provide data from a real-world setting that might help guide the choice of antihyperglycemic therapy.

TYK2 Promoter Variant Is Associated with Impaired Insulin Secretion and Lower Insulin Resistance in Japanese Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Accumulating evidence has suggested that viral infection causes type 1 diabetes due to direct β-cell damage and the triggering of autoimmune reactivity to β cells. Here, we elucidated that the tyrosine kinase 2 (Tyk2) gene, encoding an interferon receptor signaling molecule, is responsible for virus-induced diabetes in mice, and its promoter variant confers a risk of type 1 diabetes in humans. This study investigated the relationship between a TYK2 promoter variant (TYK2PV) and insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes patients. TYK2PV status was determined using direct DNA sequencing and its associations with fasting insulin, C-peptide, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were evaluated in type 2 diabetes patients without sulfonylurea or insulin medication. Of the 172 patients assessed, 18 (10.5%) showed TYK2PV-positivity. Their body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower than in those without the variant (23.4 vs. 25.4 kg/m², p = 0.025). Fasting insulin (3.9 vs. 6.2 μIU/mL, p = 0.007), C-peptide (1.37 vs. 1.76 ng/mL, p = 0.008), and HOMA-IR (1.39 vs. 2.05, p = 0.006) were lower in those with than in those without the variant. Multivariable analysis identified that TYK2PV was associated with fasting insulin ≤ 5 μIU/mL (odds ratio (OR) 3.63, p = 0.025) and C-peptide ≤ 1.0 ng/mL (OR 3.61, p = 0.028), and also lower insulin resistance (HOMA-IR ≤ 2.5; OR 8.60, p = 0.042). TYK2PV is associated with impaired insulin secretion and low insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes patients with TYK2PV should be carefully followed in order to receive the appropriate treatment including insulin injections.

Metformin Is Associated With a Lower Risk of Atrial Fibrillation and Ventricular Arrhythmias Compared With Sulfonylureas: An Observational Study

[Figure: see text].

Adding Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors to Sulfonylureas and Risk of Hypoglycemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Hypoglycemia is an important event that could be related to increased mortality in patients with diabetes. The risk of hypoglycemia is not clearly illustrated to increase when Sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are used concomitantly with sulfonylureas. The present study will assess the risk of hypoglycemia associated with the concomitant use of SGLT-2 inhibitors and sulfonylureas compared with placebo and sulfonylureas.

METHOD

We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Clinicaltrial.gov and identified the randomized trials comparing SGLT-2 inhibitors with placebo for type 2 diabetes treated with sulfonylureas. The risk of bias in each trial was assessed using the Cochrane tool. The risk ratio of hypoglycemia was measured using the Mantel Haenszel method. We also performed subgroup analysis to examine the dosage effects. The number needed to harm (NNH) was measured according to the duration of intervention.

RESULTS

A total of 12 studies, including 3761 participants, were enrolled in our systematic review and meta-analysis. The risk ratio of hypoglycemia was 1.67 (95% CI 1.42 to 1.97). The NNH was 13 (95% CI 9 to 21) for a treatment duration of 24 weeks or less, 11 (8 to 18) for 25 to 48 weeks, and 7 (5 to 10) for more than 48 weeks. Subgroup analysis showed that no difference was found between higher and lower doses of SGLT-2 inhibitors. The risk ratio related to lower dose SGLT-2 inhibitors was 1.56 (95% CI 1.30 to 1.88), and the risk ratio related to higher dose SGLT-2 inhibitors was 1.70 (95% CI 1.42 to 2.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of hypoglycemia was significantly increased in subjects treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors compared with placebo. Addition of SGLT-2 inhibitors to sulfonylureas would lead to one more case of hypoglycemia in every 13 patients with a treatment duration less than 24 weeks. This suggests that a decrease in sulfonylureas dose may be an important recommendation when adding SGLT-2 inhibitors to sulfonylureas.

Effect of Dosage Reduction of Hypoglycemic Multidrug Regimens on the Incidences of Acute Glycemic Complications in People With Type 2 Diabetes Who Fast During Ramaḍān: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the effect of dosage reduction of four hypoglycemic multidrug regimens on the incidences of acute glycemic complications in people with type 2 diabetes who fast during Ramaḍān.

METHODS

We conducted an open-label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial at a tertiary care center in Amman, Jordan. We recruited adults with type 2 diabetes who expressed an intention to fast during Ramaḍān and were adherent to one of four regimens-namely: metformin and glimepiride; metformin and vildagliptin; metformin and insulin glargine U100; or, metformin, insulin glargine U100, and human regular insulin. We randomly assigned participants in a 2:1 ratio to low- or regular-dosage therapy. The primary outcomes were the incidences of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia during the 29 days of Ramaḍān 2017, and the secondary outcomes were the incidences of diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state during the same period.

RESULTS

We randomly assigned 687 participants to low-dosage therapy (n = 458) or regular-dosage therapy (n = 229) and included 678 (452 and 226, respectively) in the final analysis. The incidence of hypoglycemia was lower in the low-dosage group compared with the regular-dosage group (19 [4.2%] vs. 52 [23.0%], respectively; OR, 0.15 [95% CI, 0.08-0.26]; P < 0.001). The incidence of hyperglycemia did not differ between the low- and regular-dosage groups (319 [70.6%] vs. 154 [68.1%], respectively; OR, 1.12 [95% CI, 0.79-1.58]; P = 0.5). No participants experienced diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state. Each 1% decrease in the baseline HbA_1c concentration was associated with a 19.9-fold (95% CI, 9.6-41.5; P < 0.001) increase in the odds of hypoglycemia, and each 1% increase in the baseline HbA_1c concentration was associated with a 15.7-fold (95% CI, 10.0-24.6; P < 0.001) increase in the odds of hyperglycemia.

CONCLUSION

Dosage reduction decreases the incidence of hypoglycemia without a concomitant increase in the incidences of hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state in people with type 2 diabetes who fast during Ramaḍān.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04237493.

Comparative clinical study evaluating the effect of adding Vildagliptin versus Glimepiride to ongoing Metformin therapy on diabetic patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the most identified cause of death in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding Vildagliptin versus Glimepiride to ongoing Metformin on the biomarkers of inflammation, thrombosis, and atherosclerosis in T2DM patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

This study included 80 patients with uncontrolled T2DM and symptomatic CAD who were randomized to add either Vildagliptin 50 mg/day "group I" or Glimepiride 4 mg/day "group II" to ongoing Metformin therapy (1000 mg/day). Blood samples were collected at baseline and 3 months after intervention for biochemical analysis of HbA1c %, IL-1β, adiponectin, hsCRP and lipid profile. Additionally atherogenic index (AI) and coronary risk index (CRI) were determined.

RESULTS

Three months after intervention and as compared to group II (Glimepiride/Metformin), group 1 (Vildagliptin/Metformin) showed significantly lower BMI (28.73 ± 3.48 versus 30.55 ± 3.15; p = 0.02), HbA1c (6.05 ± 0.72 versus 7.06 ± 0.89; p < 0.0001), hsCRP (0.96 ± 0.20 versus 1.72 ± 0.38; p < 0.0001), IL-1β (34.95 ± 10.01 versus 45.13 ± 10.26; p < 0.0001), TC (136 ± 23.45 versus 169 ± 35.72; p < 0.0001), TG (116 ± 29.10 versus 146 ± 56.58; p = 0.005), and CRI (2.47 ± 0.90 versus 3.65 ± 1.19; p < 0.0001) which was associated with significantly higher adiponectin and HDL-C (4.42 ± 1.29 versus 2.52 ± 1.86; p < 0.0001 and 61 ± 23.04 versus 48 ± 12.92; p = 0.003 respectively).

CONCLUSION

In patients with T2DM and symptomatic CAD, the addition of Vildagliptin to ongoing metformin showed better glycemic control, lower inflammatory markers (IL-1β and hsCRP), higher protective markers (adiponectin and HDL-C) and improved lipid profile compared to Glimepiride/metformin therapy.

Prevalence of Diabetes Medication Intensifications in Older Adults Discharged From US Veterans Health Administration Hospitals

IMPORTANCE

Elevated blood glucose levels are common in hospitalized older adults and may lead clinicians to intensify outpatient diabetes medications at discharge, risking potential overtreatment when patients return home.

OBJECTIVE

To assess how often hospitalized older adults are discharged with intensified diabetes medications and the likelihood of benefit associated with these intensifications.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study examined patients aged 65 years and older with diabetes not previously requiring insulin. The study included patients who were hospitalized in a Veterans Health Administration hospital for common medical conditions between 2011 and 2013.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Intensification of outpatient diabetes medications, defined as receiving a new or higher-dose medication at discharge than was being taken prior to hospitalization. Mixed-effect logistic regression models were used to control for patient and hospitalization characteristics.

RESULTS

Of 16 178 patients (mean [SD] age, 73 [8] years; 15 895 [98%] men), 8535 (53%) had a preadmission hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level less than 7.0%, and 1044 (6%) had an HbA1c level greater than 9.0%. Overall, 1626 patients (10%) were discharged with intensified diabetes medications including 781 (5%) with new insulins and 557 (3%) with intensified sulfonylureas. Nearly half of patients receiving intensifications (49% [791 of 1626]) were classified as being unlikely to benefit owing to limited life expectancy or already being at goal HbA1c, while 20% (329 of 1626) were classified as having potential to benefit. Both preadmission HbA1c level and inpatient blood glucose recordings were associated with discharge with intensified diabetes medications. Among patients with a preadmission HbA1c level less than 7.0%, the predicted probability of receiving an intensification was 4% (95% CI, 3%-4%) for patients without elevated inpatient blood glucose levels and 21% (95% CI, 15%-26%) for patients with severely elevated inpatient blood glucose levels.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, 1 in 10 older adults with diabetes hospitalized for common medical conditions was discharged with intensified diabetes medications. Nearly half of these individuals were unlikely to benefit owing to limited life expectancy or already being at their HbA1c goal.

Relationship between glycated hemoglobin level and duration of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes patients treated with sulfonylureas: A multicenter cross-sectional study

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

Sulfonylurea-related hypoglycemia increases the risk of cardiovascular sequela, such as cardiac arrhythmia. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between the level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c ) and the duration of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes patients treated with sulfonylureas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Glucose levels in the enrolled patients (n = 300) were investigated with a professional continuous glucose monitoring device in the outpatient setting at six diabetes centers in Japan.

RESULTS

A total of 269 participants completed the study. The duration of hypoglycemia with glucose values of <54 mg/dL was significantly longer in patients with an HbA1c level of ≤6.4% than in those with an HbA1c level of ≥8.0%, and that of hypoglycemia with glucose values of <70 mg/dL was significantly longer in patients with an HbA1c level of ≤6.4%, 6.5-6.9% or 7.0-7.4% than in those with an HbA1c level of ≥8.0%. Patients with an HbA1c level of ≤6.4% were exposed to glucose values of <70 mg/dL for >10% of the time in daily life (6.8 ± 5.6 min/h). The duration of hypoglycemia with glucose values of <70 mg/dL was longer at night than during the daytime, and the nadir of glucose values occurred between 03.00 and 05.00 hours irrespective of HbA1c level. The duration of hypoglycemia was associated with the duration of diabetes and sulfonylurea dose.

CONCLUSIONS

The duration of hypoglycemia was inversely correlated with HbA1c level and was longer during the night-time than daytime in type 2 diabetes patients treated with sulfonylureas.

Interaction of Organic Anion Transporter 3-Mediated Uptake of Steviol Acyl Glucuronide, a Major Metabolite of Rebaudioside A, with Selected Drugs

Organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3) plays a critical role in the renal excretion of many xenobiotics. Because steviol acyl glucuronide (SVAG), an OAT3 substrate, is the major circulating metabolite after oral ingestion of steviol glycosides and is excreted into the urine, inhibition of OAT3 activity may alter pharmacokinetic profiles of SVAG. The present study showed that drugs such as probenecid and glimepiride displayed potent inhibition toward the OAT3-mediated SVAG transport, with IC₅₀ values of 4.9 and 0.8 μM, respectively. No species differences were observed. Probenecid and glimepiride could significantly elevate plasma concentrations of SVAG after oral administration of rebaudioside A, with significant increases in plasma maximum (C_max) and area under the plasma time-concentration curve values. The inhibitory effect on the OAT3-mediated SVAG transport exemplified a unique case between drugs and the metabolite of a food additive. Our data suggest that caution should be exercised when giving steviol glycoside products to human subjects with compromised renal function.

Sublethal application of various sulfonylurea and imidazolinone herbicides favors outcrossing and hybrid seed production in oilseed rape

BACKGROUND

Acetolactate synthase (ALS)-inhibiting herbicides from the chemical families of sulfonylureas and imidazolinones are used worldwide. However, drift or sprayer contamination from some sulfonylurea herbicides causes a high level of male sterility in cruciferous species, especially oilseed rape (OSR). In this paper, we evaluated the gametocidal effects of 27 ALS-inhibiting herbicides that were sprayed on OSR plants at the bolting stage.

RESULTS

OSR anther development was very sensitive to sublethal exposure to most ALS-inhibiting herbicides. The application of 18 out of the 20 tested sulfonylureas (except ethametsulfuron and ethoxysulfuron), two imidazolinones (imazethapyr and imazamox), and one sulfonylamino-carbonyltriazolinone (flucarbazone-sodium) at suitable rates could induce male sterility. Eight of the herbicides, including chlorsulfuron (at application rates of 60-120 mg/ha), halosulfuron-methyl (300-600 mg/ha), sulfosulfuron (400-600 mg/ha), triflusulfuron-methyl (500-750 mg/ha), pyrazosulfuron-ethyl (150-225 mg/ha), nicosulfuron (200-300 mg/ha), imazethapyr (750-1125 mg/ha), and imazamox (400-800 mg/ha), could induce over 90% male sterility and over 60% relative outcrossed seed set in six cultivars with different origins. These eight chemicals could be used as new gametocides for hybrid seed production. This study also examined the possibility of external application of these gametocides on several unstable Polima cytoplasmic male sterile and thermosensitive genic male sterile lines. Although the outcrossed seed set of the treated lines was slightly reduced, the gametocide application significantly increased the seed purity of the resulting hybrid.

CONCLUSION

The finding of the gametocidal effects of most sulfonylureas and imidazolinones are of great importance for developing new functions for ALS-inhibiting herbicides. The application of gametocides will also greatly promote the safe utilization of environment-sensitive male sterility in hybrid seed production. Unexpectedly, the application of three triazolopyrimidines (florasulam, flumetsulam, and penoxsulam) and one pyrimidinylthiobenzoate (bispyribac-sodium) did not cause male sterility, although these herbicides obviously inhibited the activity of ALS and plant growth. This result suggests that inhibition of ALS activity does not always lead to male sterility in plants, and these gametocides may also inhibit other biological functions vital for microspore development.

Intensification of medical management in type 2 diabetes: A real-world look at primary care practice

AIMS

To determine which drugs were selected to be added to metformin for patients on dual anti-diabetic medication in the management of type 2 diabetes and to assess HbA1c and BMI outcomes at 6 and 12 months after the initiation of a second anti-diabetic medication.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of electronic medical record data. Second line anti-diabetic medication added to metformin between 7/1/2012 to 8/31/2017 in the primary care practice in Fairview Health System in Minnesota.

RESULTS

3413 patients met the selection criteria of type 2 diabetes, 18 years and older, dual anti-diabetes therapy with metformin being the first prescribed. The most frequently prescribed medications added to metformin were sulfonylurea and basal insulin accounting for 51% (1724/3413) and 37% (1268/3413) respectively. Mean HbA1c reductions at 6 and 12 months among 2134 patients with baseline and follow-up HbA1c data respectively were: GLP-1 agonist (-1.3, P < 0.001; -1.2, P < 0.001), sulfonylurea (-1.1, P < 0.001; -0.9, P < 0.001), basal insulin (-1.1, P < 0.001; -1.0, P < 0.001), DPP4 inhibitor (-0.7, P = 0.223; -0.8, P = 0.049). Patients prescribed a GLP-1 agonist had a higher mean baseline BMI (BMI =40.3 kg/m²) and this was the only group with a statistically significant BMI reduction from baseline at 6 and 12 months (-1.5, P = 0.049 and -1.8, P = 0.041).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Type 2 diabetes patients treated with sulfonylurea, basal insulin and GLP-1 agonist as an add on to metformin had significant reductions in HbA1c. Patients prescribed a GLP-1 agonist had a significant BMI reduction.

Reducing the Burden of Diabetes Treatment: A Review of Low-cost Oral Hypoglycemic Medications

BACKGROUND

The vast majority of individuals diagnosed with diabetes are low/middle income and may have access to only three of the 11 oral hypoglycemic medications (OHMs) due to cost: metformin intermediate release (IR) or extended release (ER), sulfonylureas (glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide), and pioglitazone. Sulfonylureas and pioglitazone have had significant controversy related to potential adverse events, but it remains unclear whether these negative outcomes are class, drug, or dose-related.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a narrative review of low-cost OHMs.

METHODS

We evaluated the maximum recommended (MAX) compared to the most effective (EFF) daily dose, time-to-peak change in HbA1c levels, and adverse events of low-cost oral hypoglycemic medications.

RESULTS

We found that the MAX was often greater than the EFF: metformin IR/ER (MAX: 2,550/2,000 mg, EFF: 1,500-2,000/1,500-2,000 mg), glipizide IR/ER (MAX: 40/20 mg, EFF: 20/5 mg), glyburide (MAX: 20 mg, EFF: 2.5-5.0 mg), pioglitazone (MAX: 45 mg, EFF: 45 mg). Time-to-peak change in HbA1c levels occurred at weeks 12-20 (sulfonylureas), 25-39 (metformin), and 25 (pioglitazone). Glimepiride was not associated with weight gain, hypoglycemia, or negative cardiovascular events relative to other sulfonylureas. Cardiovascular event rates did not increase with lower glyburide doses (p<0.05). Glimepiride and pioglitazone have been successfully used in renal impairment.

CONCLUSION

Metformin, glimepiride, and pioglitazone are safe and efficacious OHMs. Prescribing at the EFF rather than the MAX may avoid negative dose-related outcomes. OHMs should be evaluated as individual drugs, not generalized as a class, due to different dosing and adverse-event profiles; Glimepiride is the preferred sulfonylurea since it is not associated with the adverse events as others in its class.

[Medical expenses for diabetes care in Japan: Analysis of inter-prefecture differences]

Objectives　Medical expenses for diabetes differ between Japan's 47 prefectures. The medical care expenditure regulation plan aims to reduce regional differences in outpatient medical costs through prevention of severe diabetes, promotion of specific health checkups and specific health guidance, promotion of generic drugs, and proper use of medicines. To achieve this goal, we need to conduct an in-depth analysis of inter-prefecture differences in diabetes care expenses. This study analyzed regional differences in prescription fees for dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors and the use of generic sulfonylureas (SUs), glinides, biguanides, α-glucosidase inhibitors (α-GIs), and thiazoline derivatives, using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan (NDB). Furthermore, we analyzed regional differences in consultancy fees for dialysis prevention.Methods　We analyzed the 2nd NDB Open Data Japan website of the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) was used to evaluate the relationship between the medical costs of diabetes and each factor. The correlation coefficient was analyzed with Student's t-test, and a P-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results　Regarding oral hypoglycemic drugs, prefectures with a large number of DPP-4 inhibitors tended to have higher medical costs of diabetes (r=0.40, P=0.0048). Furthermore, such expenses tended to be low in prefectures where the use of generic SU drugs was high (r=-0.43, P=0.0023).Conclusions　In conclusion, the results revealed regional differences in the use of DPP-4 inhibitors and generic SU drugs, which may contribute to the regional differences in medical expenses for diabetes. This study suggests that NDB open data are useful for policy making to reduce regional differences in outpatient medical costs of diabetes.

A Safety Comparison of Metformin vs Sulfonylurea Initiation in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety of metformin vs sulfonylureas in patients with type 2 diabetes by chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included adults in Manitoba, Canada, with type 2 diabetes, an incident monotherapy prescription for metformin or a sulfonylurea, and a serum creatinine measurement from April 1, 2006, to March 31, 2017. Patients were stratified by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) into the following groups: eGFR of 90 or greater, 60 to 89, 45 to 59, 30 to 44, or less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m². Outcomes included all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, and major hypoglycemic episodes. Baseline characteristics were used to calculate propensity scores and perform inverse probability of treatment weights analysis, and eGFR group was examined as an effect modifier for each outcome.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 21,996 individuals (19,990 metformin users and 2006 sulfonylurea users). Metformin use was associated with lower risk for all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.48; 95% CI, 0.40-0.58; P<.001), cardiovascular events (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52-0.86; P=.002), and major hypoglycemic episodes (HR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.09-0.20; P<.001) when compared with sulfonylureas. CKD was a significant effect modifier for all-cause mortality (P=.002), but not for cardiovascular events or major hypoglycemic episodes.

CONCLUSION

Sulfonylurea monotherapy is associated with higher risk for all-cause mortality, major hypoglycemic episodes, and cardiovascular events compared with metformin. Although the presence of CKD attenuated the mortality benefit, metformin may be a safer alternative to sulfonylureas in patients with CKD.

A Prospective Study of the Clinical and Demographic Profile of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Receiving Antidiabetic Drug Combinations

BACKGROUND

The specific treatment recommendations for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) differ based on a particular guideline. The goal of pharmacotherapy is to achieve the target HbA1c and fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels to avoid disease complications.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the profile of T2DM patients on different antidiabetic treatment regimens and the factors leading to dose escalation in these patients.

METHODS

A prospective descriptive study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, a tertiary care teaching hospital, over a period of one year. The study population comprised of patients with T2DM for ≥5 years. The demographic and clinical data were collected during the baseline and follow-up visits.

RESULTS

Of the 119 patients studied, 59.7% were males; 32.8% were ≥65 years of age. A significant decrease in the fasting blood glucose (FBG) on follow-up was seen (p = 0.028) in patients on sulfonylurea and metformin combination. A significant decrease in the glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was seen in patients on sulfonylurea with metformin and pioglitazone (p = 0.011); sulfonylurea with metformin, pioglitazone, and sitagliptin (p = 0.026); and metformin with insulin (p = 0.001). Patients who received dose escalation had a longer duration of the disease (p = 0.042), higher FBG (p = 0.039) and HbA1c (p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A combination of metformin with sulfonylurea was the preferred first-line treatment; insulin was added when HbA1c was >9. Patients who received dose escalation had a longer duration of the disease and higher FBG and HbA1c.

Hypoglycemia Associated with Antibiotics Alone and in Combination with Sulfonylureas and Meglitinides: An Epidemiologic Surveillance Study of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS)

INTRODUCTION

Fluoroquinolones, clarithromycin, linezolid, tigecycline, cefditoren, doxycycline, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole are known to be associated with hypoglycemia, but few studies have considered concomitant glucose-lowering medications.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between hypoglycemia and antibiotics using the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), while accounting for concomitant glucose-lowering medications including sulfonylureas and meglitinides.

METHODS

FAERS reports from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2017 were included in the study. Reporting odds ratios (RORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between antibiotics and hypoglycemia were calculated. An association was considered to be statistically significant when the lower limit of the 95% CI was > 1.0.

RESULTS

A total of 2,334,959 reports (including 18,466 hypoglycemia reports) were considered, after inclusion criteria were applied. Statistically significant hypoglycemia RORs (95% CI) for antibiotics were: cefditoren 14.03 (8.93-22.03), tigecycline 3.32 (1.95-5.65), clarithromycin 2.41 (1.89-3.08), ertapenem 2.07 (1.14-3.75), moxifloxacin 2.06 (1.59-2.65), levofloxacin 1.66 (1.37-2.01), and linezolid 1.54 (1.07-2.20). After adjusting for concomitant sulfonylureas and meglitinides, the following antibiotics were still significantly associated with hypoglycemia: cefditoren 14.25 (9.08-22.39), tigecycline 3.34 (1.96-5.68), ertapenem 1.93 (1.03-3.60), and clarithromycin 1.56 (1.15-2.11).

CONCLUSION

In many patients, antibiotics, including fluoroquinolones, are associated with hypoglycemia when they are also taking sulfonylureas or meglitinides. Cefditoren, tigecycline, ertapenem, and clarithromycin are associated with hypoglycemia even if not taken with sulfonylureas or meglitinides. The association between ertapenem and hypoglycemia has not been previously reported.

Descriptive Analysis of Long- and Intermediate-Acting Insulin and Key Safety Outcomes in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

As new biosimilar and follow-on insulins enter the market, more data are needed on safety, effectiveness, and patterns of use for these products to inform prescriber and patient decision-making regarding treatment. Additionally, data are needed regarding real-world patterns of use to inform future studies comparing the safety and effectiveness of bio-similars to already approved agents for diabetes treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the medication use patterns, adverse events, and availability of glycated hemoglobin (A1c) values for adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who use long-acting insulin (LAI) or neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH), an intermediate-acting insulin.

METHODS

We used the Biologics and Biosimilars Collective Intelligence Consortium's (BBCIC) distributed research network (DRN) for this descriptive analysis. The analysis time frame was January 1, 2011, to September 30, 2015, and included patients continuously insured for at least 183 days before the first date of a filled prescription for LAI or NPH insulin alone or with rapid- or short-acting insulin or sulfonylureas, whether newly starting insulin or switching to a different product. Insulin exposure episodes were the unit of analysis, and patients were classified in cohorts according to treatment. We followed patients until end of health plan enrollment or the end of the study period. We used occurrence of a study outcome, switch to another medication regimen, discontinuation of the current medication, or study end date to mark the end of an insulin episode. We describe demographics and availability of A1c values for analysis. Study outcomes included severe hypoglycemic events and major adverse cardiac events (MACE).

RESULTS

We identified 103,951 patients with T2DM from a database of 39.1 million patients with commercial or Medicare Advantage pharmacy and medical benefits, who contributed 279,533 unique insulin exposure episodes. Most episodes (89%) included patients using LAI, and 52% of patients contributed data to 2 or more exposure cohorts. Insulin episodes lasted an average of 3.5 months, and patients had an average follow-up of 8.6 months. The unadjusted rate of severe hypoglycemic events requiring medical attention was 96.9 per 10,000 patient-years at risk (10kPYR). The unadjusted incident MACE rate was 676.9 events per 10kPYR. 38,330 T2DM patients in the BBCIC DRN had a baseline A1c available, and of those, less than 50% had a follow-up A1c result.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with T2DM, our observed insulin patterns of use and rates of severe hypoglycemic outcomes and MACE are consistent with other studies. We noted a paucity of A1c results available, which implies that additional data sources may be needed to augment the BBCIC DRN.

DISCLOSURES

This study was coordinated and funded by the Biologics and Biosimilars Collective Intelligence Consortium (BBCIC) and represents the independent findings of the BBCIC Insulins Principal Investigator and the BBCIC Insulins Research Team. Lockhart is employed by the BBCIC and the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP). Eichelberger was employed by the BBCIC and AMCP at the time of this study. McMahill-Walraven is employed by Aetna, a CVS Health business. Panozzo, Marshall, and Brown are employed by Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Institute. Aetna was reimbursed for data and analytic support from Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Institute and the Reagan Udall Foundation for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Aetna receives external funding through research grants and subcontracts with Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare Institute, which are funded by the FDA, NIH, PCORI, BBCIC, Pfizer, and GSK; the Reagan-Udall Foundation for IMEDS; and PCORI for the ADAPTABLE Study. This work was previously presented as a poster at AMCP Nexus 2018; October 22-25, 2018; in Orlando, FL.

Results of VERTIS SU extension study: safety and efficacy of ertugliflozin treatment over 104 weeks compared to glimepiride in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on metformin

Objective: To assess the safety and efficacy of ertugliflozin over 104 weeks in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) inadequately controlled on metformin. Methods: In this double-blind, multicenter, randomized, phase III study (VERTIS SU; NCT01999218), adults with T2DM and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) 7.0-9.0% on metformin ≥1500 mg/day received ertugliflozin 5 mg or 15 mg, or glimepiride. The primary efficacy time point was Week 52; double-blinded treatment continued until Week 104. Results: Baseline characteristics of randomized, treated patients (n = 1315) were similar across groups (mean age 58.2 years, HbA1c 7.8%); 76.4% completed the study; 61.6% completed on study medication. Mean glimepiride dose at 104 weeks was 3.5 mg/day. At Week 104, least squares mean change from baseline in HbA1c (95% confidence intervals) were -0.3% (-0.4, -0.2), -0.4% (-0.5, -0.3) and -0.4% (-0.5, -0.3) for ertugliflozin 5 mg, 15 mg, and glimepiride, respectively. Ertugliflozin provided sustained reductions in body weight and systolic blood pressure (SBP) over 104 weeks. The incidence of adverse events (AEs) and serious AEs was similar across groups. The incidence of symptomatic hypoglycemia was 3.8%, 6.4% and 22.1% in the ertugliflozin 5 mg, 15 mg, and glimepiride groups, respectively. Genital mycotic infections were reported in 5.3%, 2.6% and 0% of men, respectively, and 9.2%, 12.3% and 1.4% of women, respectively. The incidence of urinary tract infection and hypovolemia AEs was similar across groups. Conclusions: Ertugliflozin was well tolerated and provided clinically meaningful glycemic control and durable reductions in body weight and SBP over 104 weeks.

Diabetes management and treatment approaches outside of North America and West Europe in 2006 and 2015

AIMS

The impact of introducing new classes of glucose-lowering medication (GLM) on diabetes management remains unclear, especially outside North America and Western Europe. Therefore, we aimed to analyse trends in glycaemic control and the usage of new and old GLMs in people with type 2 diabetes from 2006 to 2015.

METHODS

Summary data from clinical services from nine countries outside North America and Western Europe were collected and pooled for statistical analysis. Each site summarized individual-level data from out-patient medical records for 2006 and 2015. Data included: demographics; HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels; and the proportions of patients taking GLM as monotherapy, combination therapy and/or insulin.

RESULTS

Between 2006 and 2015, glycaemic control remained stable, although body mass index and duration of diabetes increased in most sites. The proportion of people on GLM increased, and the therapeutic regimens became more complex. There were increases in the use of insulin and triple therapy in most sites, while monotherapy, particularly in relation to sulphonylureas, decreased. Despite the introduction of new GLMs, such as DPP-4 inhibitors, insulin use increased over time.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no clear evidence that the use of new classes of GLMs was associated with improvements in glycaemic control or reduced the reliance on insulin. These findings were consistent across a range of economic and geographic settings.

Trends in medication utilization, glycemic control and outcomes among type 2 diabetes patients in a tertiary referral center in Singapore from 2007 to 2017

BACKGROUND

Use of glucose-lowering agents is a cornerstone in combating type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Treatment guidelines have changed significantly over the past decade. We report temporal trends in medication utilization, glycemic control and rate of severe hypoglycemia in T2DM patients at a tertiary referral center in Singapore.

METHODS

We analyzed data of 36 924 T2DM patients seen at Singapore General Hospital from 2007 to 2017. Annual age-, sex- and racially-standardized proportions of patients (a) prescribed with each class of glucose-lowering agent, (b) on various glucose-lowering regimens, and (c) had an HbA_1c of less than 6%, 6% to less than 7%, 7% to less than 8%, 8% to less than 9%, or 9% or more were estimated using logistic regression. Poisson regression was used to estimate standardized rate of severe hypoglycemia.

RESULTS

From 2007 to 2017, use of metformin (45.9% to 59.6%) and insulin (24.4% to 57.9%) increased, while utilization of sulfonylureas (52.0% to 44.9%) decreased (all P < 0.001). Utilization of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (1.2% to 31.2%) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (0.5% to 7.4%) increased from 2008 to 2017 and 2012 to 2017, respectively (all P < 0.001). More patients were prescribed a combination of insulin and oral agents (17.3% to 46.0%, P < 0.001). The proportion of patients with HbA_1c of 8% or more increased (33.7% to 36.0%, P < 0.001). Rates of severe hypoglycemia (5.0 to 8.4 per 100 patient-years, P < 0.001) also rose.

CONCLUSION

Medication utilization patterns have changed significantly over the past 11 years with a shift towards newer agents. Glycemic control has remained stable, and rate of severe hypoglycemia increased. Further analysis is required before causal relationships can be inferred.

Association Between Metformin Initiation and Incident Dementia Among African American and White Veterans Health Administration Patients

PURPOSE

African American patients are more likely to experience cognitive decline after type 2 diabetes mellitus onset than white patients. Metformin use has been associated with a lower risk of dementia compared with sulfonylureas. Evidence for whether this association differs by race is sparse.

METHODS

Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical record data were obtained for 73,761 African American and white patients aged ≥50 years who used the VHA from fiscal years 2000 to 2015. Patients were free of dementia and diabetes medications during fiscal years 2000 and 2001 and subsequently initiated metformin or sulfonylurea monotherapy. For race and age subgroups, Cox proportional hazards models using propensity scores and inverse probability of treatment weighting to control for confounding were computed to measure the association between metformin vs sulfonylurea initiation and incident dementia.

RESULTS

After controlling for confounding, among patients aged ≥50 years, metformin vs sulfonylurea use was associated with a significantly lower risk of dementia in African American patients (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.73; 95% CI, 0.6-0.89) but not white patients (HR = 0.96; 95% CI, 0.9-1.03). The strongest magnitude of association between metformin and dementia was observed among African American patients aged 50 to 64 years (HR = 0.6; 95% CI, 0.45-0.81). Among those aged 65 to 74 years, metformin was significantly associated with lower risk of dementia in both races. Metformin was not associated with dementia in patients aged ≥75 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin vs sulfonylurea initiation was associated with a substantially lower risk of dementia among younger African American patients. These results may point to a novel approach for reducing the risk of dementia in African Americans with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Delays in anti-hyperglycaemic therapy initiation and intensification are associated with cardiovascular events, hospitalizations for heart failure and all-cause mortality

AIMS

The aims of this study were to assess the impact of delays in treatment intensification (TI) on cardiovascular events, heart failure, and all-cause mortality at typical stages of anti-hyperglycaemic therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using electronic health record data, we created three TI cohorts of diabetes patients who: 1) initiated metformin (MET) as their first anti-hyperglycaemic therapy; 2) added a sulfonylurea (SU) to MET; and 3) initiated insulin (INS) while using MET or SU, alone or in combination. Primary exposure variables were haemoglobin A1C value preceding cohort therapy (pre-TI A1C) and time to intensification, that is, the time between pre-TI A1C >7% and cohort index date. Cox regression models were used to analyse the associated risk of cardiovascular events, hospitalizations for heart failure and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

In the MET cohort, each additional percentage point of pre-TI A1C was associated with a 10% increased risk of a CV event (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03-1.07; P = 0.004), a 7% increased risk of HF hospitalization (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.14; P = 0.034) and a 7% increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.14; P = 0.032). Pre-TI A1C was associated with a 9% increased risk of a CV event in the INS cohort (HR,1.09; 95% CI, 1.04-1.13; P < 0.001). Each month of delay in TI was significantly associated with a 6% increased risk of hospitalization for HF (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.00-1.13; P = 0.040) and all-cause mortality (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.00-1.13; P = 0.050) in the MET cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Delays in TI were associated with poor outcomes over a mean follow-up period of nearly five years. Earlier initiation and more rapid intensification of pharmacotherapy could reduce the risk of poor outcomes.

Incident Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk in Patients Treated with a Sulfonylurea: A Nationwide, Nested, Case-Control Study

Several studies have shown that the use of sulfonylureas in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, we investigated the effects of individual sulfonylureas on HCC development using the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort in South Korea. Among 47,738 subjects aged 40 years or older who had newly diagnosed with diabetes, 241 incident HCC cases and 1205 matched controls were identified. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) as estimates of the relative risk of HCC were calculated using logistic regression analysis. Compared to patients never treated with a sulfonylurea, those treated with a sulfonylurea had a 1.7-fold increased risk of HCC development. Of the different types of sulfonylureas, the exclusive use of glimepiride was associated with a significantly elevated risk of HCC (OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.02-3.47) compared to those who were never treated with sulfonylureas. No significant associations were observed between exclusive gliclazide use and incident HCC (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 0.75-5.52). In conclusion, the association between the use of sulfonylureas and risk of HCC was different according to the type of sulfonylurea, in patients with new-onset T2DM. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these results and translate them into clinical practice.

A Randomized Study to Compare the Effects of Once-Weekly Dulaglutide Injection and Once-Daily Glimepiride on Glucose Fluctuation of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A 26-Week Follow-Up

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of once-weekly dulaglutide injection and once-daily glimepiride on glucose fluctuation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) using the Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS).

METHODS

A total of 23 patients with T2DM were randomly assigned into two groups for 26 weeks: the dulaglutide group (n = 13) and the glimepiride group (n = 10). 72-hour CGMS was applied to all patients: before and after the treatment. General clinical data were collected and measured, such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6).

RESULTS

HbA1c of the dulaglutide group was reduced from 8.38 ± 0.93% to 6.68 ± 0.73% after the treatment (P < 0.05); similarly, it was reduced from 7.91 ± 0.98% to 6.67 ± 0.74% (P < 0.05) in the glimepiride group. The levels of serum 8-iso-PGF2α, TNF-α, and IL-6 all decreased significantly in both groups after treatment, and there was no significant difference found between the two groups (P > 0.05). The Mean Blood Glucose (MBG) of the two groups declined significantly after therapy (P < 0.05). However, the Standard Deviation of Blood Glucose (SDBG) decreased significantly only in the dulaglutide group (from 2.57 ± 0.74 mmol/L to 1.98 ± 0.74 mmol/L, P < 0.05). There were no significant changes of Mean Amplitude of Glycemic Excursion (MAGE) and Absolute Means of Daily Difference (MODD) after treatment in both groups. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in MBG, SDBG, MAGE, and MODD (P > 0.05). The percentage time (PT) (>10 mmol/L and 3.9-10 mmol/L) of the two groups was significantly changed after the treatment (P < 0.05). However, this was not seen in the PT < 3.9 mmol/L after the treatment (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Once-weekly dulaglutide injection has the same effectiveness as daily glimepiride on lowering blood glucose and decreasing oxidation stress and inflammation and is more effective in controlling glucose fluctuation as compared with glimepiride. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01644500.

Recent metformin adherence and the risk of hypoglycaemia in the year following intensification with a sulfonylurea

AIM

To evaluate whether recent low adherence to metformin monotherapy is associated with hypoglycaemia after addition of a sulfonylurea.

METHODS

We assembled a retrospective cohort of veterans who filled a new prescription for metformin between 2001 and 2011 and intensified treatment with a sulfonylurea after ≥1 year of metformin use. We calculated metformin adherence from pharmacy data using the proportion of days covered in the 180-day period before intensification. The primary outcome was hypoglycaemia, defined as a hospitalization or emergency department visit for hypoglycaemia or an outpatient blood glucose measurement <3.3 mmol/l in the year following intensification. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare the risk of hypoglycaemia between participants with low (<80%) and high (≥80%) adherence. Adherence was also modelled as a continuous variable using restricted cubic splines.

RESULTS

Of 187 267 participants who initiated metformin monotherapy, 49 424 added a sulfonylurea after ≥1 year. The median (interquartile range) rate of treatment adherence was 87 (50-100)% and 43% had adherence <80%. Hypoglycaemia rates per 1000 person-years were 23.1 (95% CI 21.1-25.4) and 24.5 (95% CI 22.7-26.4) in participants with low and high adherence, respectively (adjusted hazard ratio 0.95, 95% CI 0.84-1.08). The risk of hypoglycaemia was similar across all levels of adherence when adherence was modelled as a continuous variable.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no evidence that past low adherence to metformin monotherapy was associated with hypoglycaemia after intensification with a sulfonylurea.

Assessment of the Drug Interaction Potential of Ertugliflozin With Sitagliptin, Metformin, Glimepiride, or Simvastatin in Healthy Subjects

Ertugliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, is expected to be coadministered with sitagliptin, metformin, glimepiride, and/or simvastatin. Four separate open-label, randomized, single-dose, crossover studies were conducted in healthy adults to assess the potential pharmacokinetic interactions between ertugliflozin 15 mg and sitagliptin 100 mg (n = 12), metformin 1000 mg (n = 18), glimepiride 1 mg (n = 18), or simvastatin 40 mg (n = 18). Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic parameters derived from plasma concentration-time data were analyzed using mixed-effects models to assess interactions. Coadministration of sitagliptin, metformin, glimepiride, or simvastatin with ertugliflozin had no effect on area under the plasma concentration-time profile from time 0 to infinity (AUCinf ) or maximum observed plasma concentration (Cmax ) of ertugliflozin (per standard bioequivalence boundaries, 80% to 125%). Similarly, ertugliflozin did not have any impact on AUCinf or Cmax of sitagliptin, metformin, or glimepiride. AUCinf for simvastatin (24%) and simvastatin acid (30%) increased slightly after coadministration with ertugliflozin and was not considered clinically relevant. All treatments were well tolerated. The lack of clinically meaningful pharmacokinetic interactions demonstrates that ertugliflozin can be coadministered safely with sitagliptin, metformin, glimepiride, or simvastatin without any need for dose adjustment.

Evaluation of Outcomes After Initiating Triple Antidiabetic Therapy with a GLP-1 RA in an Integrated Health Care System

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by chronic hyper-glycemia and can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated. A stepwise and patient-centered approach is recommended when managing patients with T2D. Metformin is the preferred first-line agent, while sulfonylureas (SU) are often chosen as second-line agents. If a patient's hemoglobin A1c (A1c) goal is not achieved despite 3 months of treatment with dual therapy, then triple therapy is recommended. However, due to the lack of head-to-head trials for different triple antidiabetic regimens, the recommendations are unclear for selection of an optimal third-line agent.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the comparative effectiveness of a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) compared with a thiazolidinedione (TZD) or insulin as a third-line add-on therapy in patients who have not achieved A1c goals while receiving metformin and SU dual therapy in the real-world setting within an integrated health care system.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with T2D who were not at goal A1c while on dual therapy with metformin and an SU and initiated triple antidiabetic therapy. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who achieved goal A1c within 3-7 months after starting triple therapy with a GLP-1 RA compared with a TZD or insulin. Goal A1c was defined as an A1c of < 7% for patients aged less than 65 years and A1c of < 8% for patients aged 65 years or older. Secondary outcomes included mean change in A1c, mean change in weight, and the proportion of patients with an emergent health care encounter due to a hypoglycemic event. Propensity score matching was used to select comparison groups from the insulin and TZD groups with similar baseline characteristics to the GLP-1 RA group in a 4:1 ratio.

RESULTS

274 patients initiated a GLP-1 RA in addition to dual therapy with metformin and an SU. A propensity matched group of 1,096 patients who initiated insulin and 1,096 patients who initiated a TZD were selected as the control groups. Addition of a GLP-1 RA resulted in a significantly lower proportion of patients achieving goal A1c (23.0%) compared with the addition of a TZD (30.8%, P = 0.011). There was no significant difference with the addition of a GLP-1 RA when compared with insulin (24.1%, P = 0.704).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reflects data from real-world practice in a large integrated health care system. Significantly less patients achieved goal A1c with the addition of a GLP-1 RA as a third-line add-on option to dual therapy with metformin and an SU compared with the addition of a TZD. Providers and patients should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of different antidiabetic agents when choosing triple therapy regimens.

DISCLOSURES

No outside funding supported this study. The authors have nothing to disclose. Part of this study was presented as a nonreviewed resident poster at the Academy of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy Annual Meeting 2017 in Denver, CO, on March 27-29, 2017.

Fixed-dose combination of ertugliflozin and metformin hydrochloride for the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Combining antihyperglycemic agents in order to rapidly and safely achieve the best possible glycemic control is the standard of care today for the management of type 2 diabetes. Agents should ideally have mechanisms of actions that are complementary and that improve glycemic control without unacceptable gain in body weight or hypoglycemia. Areas covered: Ertugliflozin and metformin hydrochloride (ertugliflozin/metformin, SEGLUROMET) is a recently approved fixed-dose combination tablet containing the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor ertugliflozin and metformin. This review summarizes key characteristics of ertugliflozin and metformin, as well as the efficacy and safety results of co-administration of these agents in the ertugliflozin clinical development program. This information comes from the ertugliflozin/metformin prescribing information as well as published clinical trials obtained through a PubMed search. Expert commentary: SGLT-2 inhibitors are an important class of antihyperglycemic agents that are efficacious as monotherapy and in combination with other antihyperglycemic agents. Given their favorable effects on glycemia control as well as 'extra-glycemic' parameters such as body weight and blood pressure, they are ideal agents for appropriate patients with type 2 diabetes. The fixed-dose combination of ertugliflozin with metformin is an effective combination that is conveniently administered and may improve medication adherence and persistence.

Teneligliptin versus sitagliptin in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled with metformin and glimepiride: A randomized, double-blind, non-inferiority trial

AIM

To assess the efficacy and safety of add-on therapy with the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor teneligliptin compared with sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) inadequately controlled with metformin and glimepiride.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a phase 3, randomized, double-blind, non-inferiority study of adult Korean subjects with T2DM (n = 201), with HbA1c ranging from 7.0% to 11.0%, on stable doses of metformin plus glimepiride. Subjects were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to receive either oral teneligliptin 20 mg or sitagliptin 100 mg for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in HbA1c.

RESULTS

At baseline, mean age was 60.56 ± 9.41 years, body mass index was 25.23 ± 2.85 kg/m² and HbA1c was 8.11% ± 0.79%. At 24 weeks, both groups achieved significant reductions from baseline in HbA1c (teneligliptin, -1.03% ± 0.10% [P < 0.0001]; sitagliptin, -1.02% ± 0.10% [P < 0.0001]). The inter-group difference was -0.01% (95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.28, 0.26; P = 0.9497); the upper limit of the 95% CI was within the preset limit for non-inferiority (0.4%). There were no significant differences between groups in the proportion of patients achieving HbA1c targets, or changes from baseline in fasting plasma glucose, body weight or lipid levels at 24 weeks. Rates of adverse events (teneligliptin, n = 63 [61.76%]; sitagliptin, n = 61 [62.24%]; P = 0.9442) and hypoglycaemia (teneligliptin, n = 32 [31.37%]; sitagliptin, n = 28 [28.57%]; P = 0.6656) were similar.

CONCLUSION

Teneligliptin was non-inferior to sitagliptin in the context of triple therapy for T2DM and is an important option in this setting.

Second-line glucose-lowering drugs added to metformin and the risk of hospitalization for heart failure: A nationwide cohort study

AIM

To compare the risks of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) associated with sulfonylurea (SU), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP-4i), and thiazolidinedione (TZD) as add-on medications to metformin (MET) therapy using the data of Korean adults with type-2 diabetes from the Korean National Health Insurance database.

METHODS

We identified 98,383 people who received SU (n = 42,683), DPP-4i (n = 50,310), or TZD (n = 5,390) added to initial treatment of MET monotherapy in patients with type-2 diabetes. The main outcome was the hospitalization for HHF. Hazard ratios for HHF by type of second-line glucose-lowering medication were estimated by Cox-proportional hazard models. Sex, age, duration of MET monotherapy, Charlson Comorbidity Index and additional comorbidities, and calendar year were controlled as potential confounders.

RESULTS

The observed numbers (rate per 100,000 person-years) of HHF events were 1,129 (658) for MET+SU users, 710 (455) for MET+DPP-4i users, and 110 (570) for MET+TZD users. Compared to that for MET+SU users (reference group), the adjusted hazard ratios for HHF events were 0.76 (95% confidence interval 0.69-0.84) for MET+DPP-4i users and 0.96 (95% confidence interval 0.79-1.17) for MET+TZD users.

CONCLUSION

DPP-4i as an add-on therapy to MET may lower the risks of HHF compared with SU.

Efficacy and safety of once-weekly dulaglutide versus insulin glargine in mainly Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on metformin and/or a sulphonylurea: A 52-week open-label, randomized phase III trial

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly dulaglutide with that of insulin glargine in combination with metformin and/or a sulphonylurea in mainly Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this 52-week, randomized, parallel-arm open-label study, we enrolled patients aged ≥18 years with T2DM for at least 6 months and a glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentration ≥53.0 mmol/mol (7.0%) and ≤96.7 mmol/mol (11.0%). The primary outcome was change in HbA1c from baseline to week 26 to determine non-inferiority of dulaglutide 1.5 mg versus glargine.

RESULTS

A total of 774 patients from China, South Korea, Mexico and Russia were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to dulaglutide 1.5 mg, dulaglutide 0.75 mg or glargine treatment groups. The patients' mean age was 55 years and the average T2DM duration was ~8 years. The least squares mean (SE) changes from baseline in HbA1c at 26 weeks were - 18.9 (0.73) mmol/mol (-1.73 [0.067]%) for dulaglutide 1.5 mg and -14.5 (0.73) mmol/mol (-1.33 [0.067]%) for dulaglutide 0.75 mg, compared with -12.7 (0.73) mmol/mol (-1.16 [0.067]%) for glargine. Statistical criteria for superiority were met with both dulaglutide 1.5 mg and dulaglutide 0.75 mg. More patients in the dulaglutide 1.5 and 0.75 mg groups achieved HbA1c target <53.0 mmol/mol (<7.0%) than in the glargine group at week 26 (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004, respectively). Body weight decreased with dulaglutide and increased with glargine. The incidence and rate of total hypoglycaemia were lower with dulaglutide versus glargine. Gastrointestinal adverse events, including diarrhoea and nausea, were the most frequently reported for patients taking dulaglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

Once-weekly dulaglutide provides greater improvement in HbA1c, with weight loss and less hypoglycaemia, than once-daily insulin glargine in a population of mainly Asian patients with T2DM who had failed to achieve optimal glycaemic control on metformin and/or a sulphonylurea.

Predictors of Effectiveness of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

RATIONALE

It is well known that diabetes mellitus (DM) exacerbates the mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis. Currently, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (aGLP-1) have one of the most prominent cardioprotective effects among the antidiabetic agents. However, the treatment with aGLP-1 is effective only in 50-70% of the cases. Taking into account the high cost of these medications, discovery of the predictors of optimal response to treatment is required.

PURPOSE

To identify the predictors of the greater impact of aGLP-1 on HbA1c levels, weight reduction, and improvement in lipid profile.

METHODS

The study group consisted of 40 patients with type 2 DM (T2DM) and obesity who were treated with aGLP-1. The follow-up period was 24 weeks. Patients' evaluation was conducted at baseline and after 24 weeks. In addition, it included the assessment of the hormones involved in glucose and lipid metabolism and appetite regulation.

RESULTS

Patients who have initially higher BMI (body mass index), glycemia, and triglycerides (TG) had better improvement in these parameters undergoing aGLP-1 treatment. In patients with a BMI loss ≥ 5%, GLP-1 and fasting ghrelin levels were higher and ghrelin level in postnutritional status was lower. The HbA1c levels decreased more intensively in participants with higher GLP-1 levels. TG responders had lower baseline fasting glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and postprandial ghrelin levels.

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of the glycemic control, lipid profile, and GLP-1, GIP, and ghrelin levels are useable for estimating the expected efficacy of aGLP-1.

Persistence of oral antidiabetic treatment for type 2 diabetes characterized by drug class, patient characteristics and severity of renal impairment: A Japanese database analysis

AIM

To evaluate the persistence with oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) treatment characterized by drug class, patient characteristics and severity of renal impairment (RI) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in Japan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective, observational study extracted data from a large-scale hospital database (April 2008 to September 2016). Patients with T2DM aged ≥40 years on the day of their first prescription (index date) of any OAD (biguanides [BGs], thiazolidinediones [TZDs], sulphonylureas [SUs], glinides, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 [DPP-4] inhibitors, or α-glucosidase inhibitors [α-GIs]) available between January 1, 2014 and September 30, 2016 were identified. Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors were not available at study initiation. Treatment persistence was assessed by Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Patients were also categorized by RI status using estimated glomerular filtration rate: ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (G1); 60 to <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (G2); 30 to <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (G3); and <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (G4+).

RESULTS

We identified 206 406 index dates from 162 116 eligible patients. The largest number of index dates (91634) was observed for DPP-4 inhibitors, followed by BGs, SUs, α-GIs, glinides and TZDs. Treatment persistence was longest for DPP-4 inhibitors (median 17.0 months, 95% confidence interval [CI] 16.4-17.5) and BGs (median 17.3 months, 95% CI 16.6-18.2), and shortest for α-GIs (median 5.6 months, 95% CI 5.4-5.9) and SUs (median 4.3 months, 95% CI 4.2-4.6). Persistence was longest with DPP-4 inhibitors at all RI stages (G1-G4+), followed by BGs at stages G1/G2.

CONCLUSIONS

The longest OAD persistence was observed for BGs and DPP-4 inhibitors at RI stages G1/G2, and for DPP-4 inhibitors at RI stages G3/G4+.

Ethnic variations in the risk of hypoglycaemia among people with Type 2 diabetes prescribed insulins and/or sulfonylureas: a historical cohort study using general practice-recorded data

AIM

To identify ethnic differences in hypoglycaemic risk among people with Type 2 diabetes prescribed insulins and/or sulfonylureas in community settings.

METHODS

Using routine general practice-recorded data, two cohorts of adults with Type 2 diabetes from east London were studied between January 2013 and December 2015: (1) adults prescribed insulins ± other antidiabetes medications (n=7269) and (2) adults prescribed sulfonylureas ± other antidiabetes medications excluding insulins (n=12 502). Incidence rate ratios of hypoglycaemia by ethnicity, adjusting for age, sex, socio-economic status and clustering within Clinical Commissioning Groups, were estimated using random effects Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Compared with white British people prescribed insulins, those of black Caribbean ethnicity were at increased hypoglycaemic risk [adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.56 (95% CI 1.21,2.01)], while Bangladeshi people had a lower risk [adjusted incidence rate ratio 0.49 (95% CI, 0.38,0.64)]. In the sulfonylurea cohort, black Caribbean, black African and Indian people all had increased risks of hypoglycaemia compared with white British people [adjusted incidence rate ratios 1.63 (95% CI 1.15,2.29), 1.90 (95% CI 1.32,2.75) and 1.93 (95% CI 1.39,2.69), respectively].

CONCLUSION

The differences in hypoglycaemic risk among people with Type 2 diabetes prescribed insulin and/or sulfonylureas warrant further investigation of any differing biological responses and/or cultural attitudes to antidiabetes therapy among ethnic groups, and should be considered by clinicians evaluating the treatment goals of people with Type 2 diabetes using insulins or sulfonylureas.

Empagliflozin compared with glimepiride in metformin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes: 208-week data from a masked randomized controlled trial

AIM

To report results at week 208, including a 104-week masked extension, of the EMPA-REG H2H-SU trial in patients with type 2 diabetes with inadequate glycaemic control on metformin, in which empagliflozin 25 mg given for 104 weeks provided a sustained reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) with a small but statistically significant benefit vs glimepiride, sustained reductions in weight and blood pressure, and low risk of hypoglycaemia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with type 2 diabetes and HbA1c 53-86 mmol/mol (7% to 10%) were randomized to empagliflozin 25 mg or glimepiride 1 to 4 mg for 104 weeks as add-on to metformin. Patients who completed the randomized treatment period could participate in a 104-week extension in which they continued the double-blind treatment allocated at randomization.

RESULTS

Of 765 and 780 patients treated with empagliflozin and glimepiride, 576 and 549 patients, respectively, entered the extension period of the study. At week 208, the adjusted mean difference in change from baseline in HbA1c with empagliflozin vs glimepiride was -1.96 mmol/mol, 95% CI -3.57, -0.35 (-0.18%, 95% CI -0.33, -0.03); P = 0.0172. Rescue therapy was given to 23% of patients on empagliflozin and 34% on glimepiride (odds ratio 0.56 [95% CI 0.45, 0.71]; P < 0.0001). Confirmed hypoglycaemic adverse events (plasma glucose ≤3.9 mmol/L and/or requiring assistance) occurred in 3% of patients on empagliflozin and 28% on glimepiride (odds ratio 0.08 [95% CI 0.05, 0.13]; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes, empagliflozin 25 mg as add-on to metformin for 208 weeks reduced HbA1c with a significantly lower risk of hypoglycaemia and a significantly smaller proportion of patients receiving rescue therapy compared with glimepiride.

Reduced Glucose Variability With Glucose-Dependent Versus Glucose-Independent Therapies Despite Similar Glucose Control and Hypoglycemia Rates in a Randomized, Controlled Study of Older Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Few studies have evaluated continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in older patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) not using injectable therapy. CGM is useful for investigating hypoglycemia and glycemic variability, which is associated with complications in T2DM.

METHODS

A CGM substudy of Individualized treatMent aPproach for oldER patIents in a randomized trial in type 2 diabetes Mellitus (IMPERIUM)) was conducted. Patients were vulnerable (moderately ill and/or frail) older (≥65 years) individuals with suboptimally controlled T2DM. Strategy A comprised glucose-dependent therapies (n = 26) with a nonsulfonylurea oral antihyperglycemic medication (OAM) and a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist as the first injectable. Strategy B comprised non-glucose-dependent therapies (n = 21) with sulfonylurea as the preferred OAM and insulin glargine as the first injectable. Primary endpoints were duration and percentage of time spent with blood glucose (BG) ≤70 mg/dL over 24 hours at week 24.

RESULTS

Duration and percentage of time spent with hypoglycemia at ≤70 mg/dL were similar for Strategy A and Strategy B; glycemic control improved similarly in both arms (LSM change in HbA1c at week 24; A = -1.2%, B = -1.4%). Duration and percentage time spent with euglycemia and hyperglycemia were also similar in both arms. However, Strategy A was associated with lower within-day (21.1 ± 1.2 vs 25.1 ± 1.4, P = .046) and between-day (5.4 ± 1.0 vs 9.1 ± 1.3, P = .038) BG variability (coefficient of variance [LSM ± SE]) at week 24.

CONCLUSIONS

This CGM substudy in older patients with T2DM showed lower within- and between-day BG variability with glucose-dependent therapies but similar HbA1c reductions and hypoglycemia duration with glucose-independent strategies.

Glycaemic control, hypoglycaemia, and weight change with insulin glargine 300 U/mL versus insulin glargine 100 U/mL in Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes: A 12-month comparison by concomitant sulphonylurea and/or glinide use

AIM

To explore if clinical effects and hypoglycaemia risks associated with insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) and 100 U/mL (Gla-100) differed by sulphonylurea and/or glinide (SU/G) treatment.

METHODS

A post hoc subgroup analysis of 12-month treatment data from the EDITION Japan 2 trial, a randomized, open-label, phase 3 study of Japanese people with type 2 diabetes receiving once-daily Gla-300/Gla-100 + oral antihyperglycaemic drugs. Participants previously receiving SU/G (+SU/G) were compared with those not taking SU/G (-SU/G). Endpoints included HbA1c, hypoglycaemia and body weight.

RESULTS

For +SU/G (n = 152, 63%), HbA1c was reduced from baseline to month 12 for Gla-300 (8.1% to 7.6%) and Gla-100 (8.2% to 7.8%). For -SU/G (n = 89, 37%), reductions were 7.8% to 7.4%, and 7.9% to 7.5% for Gla-300 and Gla-100, respectively. A lower annualized rate of hypoglycaemia with Gla-300 versus Gla-100 was observed at night (00:00-05:59 hours; p = 0.0001) and any time of day (24 hour; p = 0.0015). Irrespective of the insulin used, the incidence and rate of confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/L [≤70 mg/dL]) or severe hypoglycaemia appeared higher in +SU/G versus -SU/G; overall, a reduced incidence of nocturnal hypoglycaemia, and rate of hypoglycaemia at any time, was observed in -SU/G versus +SU/G. In the -SU/G subgroup, body weight gain differences were observed between Gla-300 and Gla-100 (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Participants with prior and continued SU/G use had similar therapeutic responses with basal insulin but greater risk of hypoglycaemia than those not using SU/G; hypoglycaemia risk was lower with Gla-300 than Gla-100 in both subgroups.

Efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin or dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin versus glimepiride as add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of dapagliflozin and dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin vs glimepiride as add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This 52-week, multicentre, double-blind, active-controlled study (NCT02471404) randomized (1:1:1) patients (n = 939; HbA1c 7.5%-10.5%) on metformin monotherapy (≥1500 mg/day) to add-on dapagliflozin 10 mg, dapagliflozin 10 mg plus saxagliptin 5 mg, or glimepiride 1 to 6 mg (titrated). The primary efficacy end point was change in HbA1c from baseline to Week 52.

RESULTS

Baseline mean age, diabetes duration and HbA1c were 58.4 years, 7.0 years and 8.3%, respectively. Adjusted mean HbA1c change from baseline was -1.20% with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin and -0.82% with dapagliflozin, vs -0.99% with glimepiride (mean dose at Week 52, 4.6 mg). Changes in body weight (-3.2 kg and -3.5 kg vs +1.8 kg) and systolic blood pressure (SBP; -6.4 mm Hg and -5.6 mm Hg vs -1.6 mm Hg) were significantly greater with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin and dapagliflozin than with glimepiride. FPG decreased significantly with dapagliflozin plus saxagliptin compared with glimepiride (-2.1 mmol/L vs -1.5 mmol/L) and was similar with dapagliflozin (-1.6 mmol/L) compared with glimepiride. Confirmed incidence of hypoglycaemia was lower with dapagliflozin regimens than with glimepiride (0 and 1 vs 13 patients) and fewer patients required rescue. Genital infections were more frequent with dapagliflozin; other AE profiles were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

Dapagliflozin, saxagliptin and metformin improved glycaemic control compared with glimepiride plus metformin; add-on of dapagliflozin alone showed efficacy similar to that of glimepiride. Both dapagliflozin regimens decreased body weight and SBP, with a lower incidence of hypoglycaemia compared with glimepiride.

Glimepiride Administered in Chow Reversibly Impairs Glucose Tolerance in Mice

Sulfonylureas are a class of antidiabetes medications prescribed to millions of individuals worldwide. Rodents have been used extensively to study sulfonylureas in the laboratory. Here, we report the results of studies treating mice with a sulfonylurea (glimepiride) in order to understand how the drug affects glucose homeostasis and tolerance. We tested the effect of glimepiride on fasting blood glucose, glucose tolerance, and insulin secretion, using glimepiride sourced from a local pharmacy. We also examined the effect on glucagon, gluconeogenesis, and insulin sensitivity. Unexpectedly, glimepiride exposure in mice was associated with fasting hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, and decreased insulin. There was no change in circulating glucagon levels or gluconeogenesis. The effect was dose-dependent, took effect by two weeks, and was reversed within three weeks after removal. Glimepiride elicited the same effects in all strains evaluated: four wild-type strains, as well as the transgenic Grn-/- and diabetic db/db mice. Our findings suggest that the use of glimepiride as a hypoglycemic agent in mice should proceed with caution and may have broader implications about mouse models as a proxy to study the human pharmacopeia.

Failure of monotherapy in clinical practice in patients with type 2 diabetes: The Korean National Diabetes Program

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

We investigated the failure of monotherapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in real practice settings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Korean National Diabetes Program was a prospective, multicenter observational cohort study of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Korea. Of the 3,950 patients enrolled in the study, we studied 998 who were continuously maintained on monotherapy for at least 90 days at six participating centers. To balance the baseline characteristics of patients in each group, we used propensity matching at a 1:1 ratio (metformin vs sulfonylureas) and 4:1 ratio (metformin vs meglitinides and metformin vs alpha-glucosidase inhibitors [aGIs]). The hazard ratios (HRs) of treatments (compared with metformin) were determined by Cox's proportional hazards regression modeling.

RESULTS

The median follow-up time was 56 months, and monotherapy failed in 45% of all patients. The annual incidences of failure were 15.6%, 21.3%, 27% and 9.6% in the metformin, sulfonylurea, meglitinide and aGI groups. Compared with metformin, sulfonylureas and meglitinides were associated with higher risks of monotherapy failure (HR 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.80; HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.13-3.27), and aGIs with risks similar to that of metformin (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.44-1.45). When analyzed by failure type, sulfonylureas, meglitinides and aGIs were associated with a higher risk of a switch to other agents (HR 4.43, 95% CI 2.14-9.17; HR 18.80, 95% CI 6.21-56.93; HR 4.25, 95% CI 1.49-12.13), and aGIs with a lower risk of prescription of add-on second agents (HR 0.16, 95% CI 0.04-0.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin was associated with a lower failure risk than were sulfonylureas and meglitinides, but a comparable aGI failure rate.

Effect of short-term treatment with sitagliptin or glibenclamide on daily glucose fluctuation in drug-naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

To compare the effect of a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP4-i) and a sulfonylurea (SU) on daily glucose fluctuation in drug-naïve Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 53 drug-naïve Japanese patients with T2DM (HbA1c, 7.0%-9.0%; fasting plasma glucose, 6.1 mmol/L or higher) were randomly assigned to either sitagliptin 50 mg qd or glibenclamide 2.5 mg per day (given in divided doses) in a 1:1 ratio. A continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device was used to obtain 24-hour glucose profiles for each patient at baseline and at Week 2. The primary study endpoint was change from baseline in mean amplitude of glucose excursion (MAGE) during a 24-hour period. A key secondary endpoint was change from baseline in the standard deviation (SD) of 24-hour glucose levels.

RESULTS

After 2 weeks of treatment, a numerically greater reduction in MAGE from baseline was observed in the sitagliptin group compared with the glibenclamide group, but the between-treatment difference was not statistically significant (LS mean difference [95% CI]: -0.48 mmol/L [-1.31, 0.34]; P = .245). However, a significantly greater reduction in the change from baseline in SD was observed in the sitagliptin group compared with the glibenclamide group (LS mean difference [95% CI]: -0.33 mmol/L [-0.62, -0.03]; P = .029).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that the DPP4 inhibitor sitagliptin has a greater ability to reduce daily glucose fluctuation than the SU glibenclamide in drug-naïve Japanese patients with T2DM. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02318693.

Efficacy and safety of dulaglutide monotherapy compared with glimepiride in East-Asian patients with type 2 diabetes in a multicentre, double-blind, randomized, parallel-arm, active comparator, phase III trial

AIMS

To compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist dulaglutide 1.5 and 0.75 mg with glimepiride in East-Asian patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this phase III, multinational, multicentre, double-blind, randomized, parallel-arm, 26-week study, patients with inadequate glycaemic control were randomized 1:1:1 to once-weekly dulaglutide 1.5 or 0.75 mg or daily glimepiride (1-3 mg/d). The primary endpoint was assessment of the non-inferiority of dulaglutide (1.5 mg), as measured by change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), compared with glimepiride using a 0.4% non-inferiority margin.

RESULTS

A total of 737 patients were randomized (dulaglutide 1.5 mg, n = 244; dulaglutide 0.75 mg, n = 248; glimepiride, n = 245). At week 26, both doses of dulaglutide were non-inferior and also superior to glimepiride for HbA1c reduction from baseline with a least squares mean difference of -6.34 mmol/mol (95% confidence interval [CI] -8.31, -4.26) or -0.58% (95% CI -0.76, -0.39) for dulaglutide 1.5 mg and -3.50 mmol/mol (95% CI -5.47, -1.42) or -0.32% (95% CI -0.50, -0.13) for dulaglutide 0.75 mg (P < .001). A greater proportion of patients in the dulaglutide 1.5 mg group achieved the HbA1c target of <53 mmol/mol (<7.0%) compared with the glimepiride group (74.1% vs 57.4%; P < .001). The mean body weight decreased (P < .005) and total hypoglycaemia rates were lower (P < .001) in the dulaglutide groups compared with the glimepiride group. The most common drug-related adverse events in both dulaglutide groups (≥5% of patients) included diarrhoea, nausea, increased lipase, decreased appetite, abdominal distension and vomiting.

CONCLUSIONS

Dulaglutide (both doses) demonstrated superior glycaemic control vs glimepiride, with a favourable tolerability and safety profile in East-Asian patients with T2D.

Interrogation of a longitudinal, national pharmacy claims dataset to explore factors that predict the need for add-on therapy in older and socioeconomically disadvantaged Australians with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2DM)

PURPOSE

The management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is complex. The aim of this work is to explore factors that predict the need for add-on therapy in patients with T2DM in the community.

METHODS

We accessed longitudinal, pharmacy payment claim records from the national Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) (Subsidises costs of medicines: government pays difference between patient co-payments, lower in concessional patients, and additional cost of drug.) for the period January 2006 to September 2014 (EREC/MI3127) from a 10% random sample of the Australian population validated to be representative of the population by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Likely, T2DM patients were identified as those having been dispensed a single anti-hyperglycaemic drug (monotherapy). The time taken and possible factors that might lead to the addition of a second therapy were examined. An examination was made of trends in the co-prescription of either antihypertensive or anti-hyperlipidaemic agents in relation to the time (± 3 years) of initiating an anti-hyperglycaemic agent.

RESULTS

Most (83%) presumed T2DM patients were initiated with metformin. The average time until the second agent was added was 4.8 years (95% CI 4.7-4.9). Satisfactory adherence, age, male gender, initiating therapy after 2012 and initiating with a sulphonylurea drug all were significant risks for add-on therapy. There was no overall trend in the initiation of antihypertensive and/or anti-hyperlipidaemic agents with respect to the time of anti-hyperglycaemic initiation.

CONCLUSION

The usefulness of a longitudinal dataset of pharmacy-claim records is demonstrated. Over half of all older and socioeconmically disadvantaged T2DM patients captured in this longitudinal claims database will be prescribed a second anti-hyperglycaemic agent within 5 years of their first drug therapy. Several factors can predict the risk of prescription of add-on therapy, and these should be considered when prescribing medications to treat T2DM.

Patient and prescriber characteristics among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus continuing or discontinuing sulfonylureas following insulin initiation: data from a large commercial database

OBJECTIVE

To describe patient and provider characteristics for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) initiating basal insulin and describe basal insulin's impact on sulfonylurea (SU) discontinuation.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the HealthCore Integrated Research Database. Patients had ≥12 months of continuous coverage prior to initiating insulin, and were utilizing at least one anti-hyperglycemic drug at the time of insulin initiation. Predictors for SU discontinuation were evaluated utilizing Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Among the 74,334 individuals aged ≥18 years with T2DM who initiated basal insulin from 2006-2015, 30% were taking metformin (MET) and SU when initiating insulin. Among the 22,418 MET/SU patients, 31% discontinued SU within 3 months of insulin initiation and, by 12 months, 55% had discontinued SU. Sulfonylurea discontinuation was similar among many patient and provider characteristics, while being modestly positively associated (p < .05; HRs <1.5) with female gender, more co-morbidities, cardiac revascularization, chronic liver disease, hospitalizations with a T2DM diagnosis, and hypoglycemia prior to insulin initiation. SU discontinuation was modestly inversely associated with receiving an insulin prescription from an endocrinologist (HR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.85-0.95).

CONCLUSIONS

Roughly half of commercially-insured T2DM patients discontinued SU within 1 year after insulin initiation, and SU discontinuation was not strongly associated with a range of patient and provider characteristics.

Pharmacoeconomic evaluation of glimepiride combined with other drugs in the treatment of diabetes

The goal of diabetic drug treatment is to stabilize the blood sugar for a long time to close to the normal level, to correct the metabolic disorder and eliminate the symptoms. At present, glimepiride has become commonly used drugs for the treatment of diabetes with obesity. Compared with metformin, acarbose and rosiglitazone, glimepiride has different mechanisms of drug action, clinical combination showed synergistic hypoglycemic effect, good clinical curative effect. So, we use three treatments to study as group A (glimepiride and metformin); group B (glimepiride and acarbose); Group C (glimepiride and rosiglitazone). From the analysis of drug economics, glimepiride and metformin scheme is better, has the lowest cost per unit cost effect. From the comparison of scheme is efficient, the best curative effect is rosiglitazone plus glimepiride, effective rate as 96.7%. At the same time, the drug can be rationally used to reduce the occurrence of some drug-induced diseases and adverse drug reactions.

All-cause and cardiovascular mortality associated with sulphonylurea and metformin therapy in type 2 diabetes

PURPOSE

To test the hypothesis that cumulative exposure to sulphonylurea (SU) or metformin (MET) have different effects on mortality when taken as a replacement or add-on of one for the other.

METHODS

All consecutive diabetes patients aged over 20 years were screened at their first diabetes outpatient visit between 2001 and 2008 (n = 79869). Only patients on MET (n = 11374) or SU (n = 18502) monotherapy were retained. All patients were followed up for death until December 31, 2011, but censored at first exposure to anything else besides MET/SU. Adjusted time-dependent Cox regression and competing risk regression analysis, with daily updates of treatment modalities were performed.

RESULTS

Mean age was 62.1 ± 11.2 years and follow-up was 4.6 ± 3.2 years (138496 person-years). Adjusted all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates were significantly higher in MET as compared with SU group. All-cause mortality hazard ratios (HR) for cumulative time exposure were as follows: HR 0.956 (95%CI 0.951-0.962, p < 0.001) for SU added to MET, HR 1.092 (95%CI 1.087-1.096, p < 0.001) for SU replacing MET, HR 0.979 (95%CI 0.975-0.983, p < 0.001) for MET added to SU, and HR 1.127 (95%CI 1.118-1.136, p < 0.001) for MET replacing SU.

CONCLUSION(S)

The effect on all-cause mortality was beneficial for MET+SU combined therapy, but deleterious for either SU replacing MET, or MET replacing SU. There were no major outcome differences when analyzing individual SU, or specific mortality.

A randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of sulphonylurea gliclazide MR (modified release) and the DPP-4 inhibitor vildagliptin on glycemic variability and control measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in Brazilian women with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

This study aims to evaluate whether there is a difference between the effects of vildagliptin and gliclazide MR (modified release) on glycemic variability (GV) in women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) as evaluated by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

METHODS

An open-label, randomized study was conducted in T2DM women on steady-dose metformin monotherapy which were treated with 50 mg vildagliptin twice daily or 60-120 mg of gliclazide MR once daily. CGM and GV indices calculation were performed at baseline and after 24 weeks.

RESULTS

In total, 42 patients (age: 61.9 ± 5.9 years, baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): 7.3 ± 0.56) were selected and 37 completed the 24-week protocol. Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR reduced GV, as measured by the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE, p = 0.007 and 0.034, respectively). The difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance. Vildagliptin also significantly decreased the standard deviation of the mean glucose (SD) and the mean of the daily differences (MODD) (p = 0.007 and 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR similarly reduced the MAGE in women with T2DM after 24 weeks of treatment. Further studies are required to attest differences between vildagliptin and gliclazide MR regarding glycemic variability.

Long-term effects on glycaemic control and β-cell preservation of early intensive treatment in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes: A multicentre randomized trial

AIM

To determine the effects of early intensive glycaemic control with intensive insulin treatment (IIT) or initial combined oral antidiabetic drug (COAD) therapy on long-term glycaemic control and the preservation of β-cell function in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

Newly diagnosed drug-naïve patients with T2DM from 8 outpatient diabetes centres were randomized to receive either IIT (n = 50; glargine/glulisine) or COAD (n = 47; glimepiride/metformin) as intensive treatment until the termination criteria to ensure euglycaemia were met. After intensive treatment, the patients completed a follow-up period with either lifestyle modification (LSM) alone or rescue therapy to maintain target glycated haemoglobin levels of <7% (53 mmol/mol) up to week 104. The primary outcomes were analysed after excluding participants who were anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase autoantibody-positive.

RESULTS

Both intensive treatment methods were effective for short-term glycaemic control, but improvements in the disposition index (DI) were significantly greater in the IIT group than in the COAD group (P = .021). During the follow-up period after intensive treatment, the two groups significantly differed in rescue method regarding the maintenance of comparable levels of glycaemic control (P = .010) and more participants who received IIT exhibited well-controlled glycaemia with LSM alone. Additionally, the IIT group maintained a higher DI than the COAD group during the follow-up period. Cox regression analysis showed that the IIT method was associated with a 52.5% lower risk of failing to maintain drug-free glycaemic remission compared with the COAD method (P = .015).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate that outpatient clinic-based IIT to ensure euglycaemia in newly diagnosed patients with T2DM might be an effective initial therapeutic option for improvements in β-cell function and glycaemic control over the long term, without serious adverse events.