A new study conducted by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital might pave the way for new and more efficient treatments for diabetes patients.
The study evaluated a drug called ertugliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor that is usually prescribed to patients who have type 2 diabetes to help keep their blood sugar in control. The study aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of ertugliflozin’s cardiovascular outcomes. The study results revealed that the drug’s safety and efficacy are on par with SGLT2 inhibitors, and patients were not exposed to adverse effects.
The findings from the recent study highlight the growing data that favors using the new class of diabetes therapies. The data is of this particular study supports the use of the new class of blood sugar-regulating drugs that do not have any cardiovascular risks attached. The findings of the study were published in a medical journal called the New England Journal of Medicine.
“This class of medications has turned out to be a huge win for patients with benefits beyond blood glucose control,” stated Dr. Christopher Cannon, a Brigham cardiologist.
The study findings will likely support regulatory approval
Dr. Cannon noted that the Food and Drug Administration had initially requested more data as proof that the new diabetes therapies would not put patients at risk of renal and cardiovascular illnesses. The study findings indicate that those risks are not present but also highlight potential cardiovascular and renal health benefits.
Renal disease progression and cardiovascular disease are some of the most common issues with type 2 diabetes. Having diabetes treatment that reduces those risks is a huge win for diabetes patients and the medical fraternity. Previous studies revealed that ertugliflozin was an effective treatment that can be used to control blood sugar. The added benefit of reducing cardiovascular deaths and renal disease complications makes it quite appealing for diabetes patients.
The American Diabetes Association endorses the use of SGLT2 inhibitors like ertugliflozin as therapies for regulating blood sugar through guidelines that were established in 2019. The results of the ertugliflozin study support its use under those guidelines.
