Hypoglycemia and Cardiovascular Outcomes in the CARMELINA and CAROLINA Trials of Linagliptin: A Secondary Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials.

Importance: Previous studies have reported an association between hypoglycemia and cardiovascular (CV) events in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D), but it is unclear if this association is causal or identifies a high-risk patient phenotype. Objective: To evaluate the associations between hypoglycemia and CV outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants: This secondary analysis was a post hoc assessment of the multinational, double-blind CARMELINA (Cardiovascular and Renal Microvascular Outcome Study With Linagliptin; 2013-2016) and CAROLINA (Cardiovascular Outcome Trial of Linagliptin vs Glimepiride in Type 2 Diabetes; 2010-2018) randomized clinical trials of the antihyperglycemic drug, linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor. Participants were adults with T2D at high CV risk with or without high kidney risk. By design, participants in the CARMELINA trial had longer duration of T2D and had a higher CV risk than participants in the CAROLINA trial. Data analyses were conducted between June 2021 and June 2023. Intervention: Linagliptin or placebo in the CARMELINA trial, and linagliptin or glimepiride in the CAROLINA trial. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome for both trials was CV death, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke (3-point major adverse CV events [3P-MACE]). For the present analyses, hospitalization for heart failure (HF) was added. Hypoglycemia was defined as plasma glucose less than 54 mg/dL or severe hypoglycemia (episodes requiring the assistance of another person). Associations between the first hypoglycemic episode and subsequent CV events and between nonfatal CV events (MI, stroke, hospitalization for HF) and subsequent hypoglycemic episodes were assessed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Sensitivity analyses explored the risk of CV events within 60 days after each hypoglycemic episode. Results: In the CARMELINA trial (6979 patients; 4390 males [62.9%]; mean [SD] age, 65.9 [9.1] years), there was an association between hypoglycemia and subsequent 3P-MACE plus hospitalization for HF (hazard ratio [HR], 1.23; 95% CI, 1.04-1.46) as well as between nonfatal CV events and subsequent hypoglycemia (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.06-1.83). In the CAROLINA trial (6033 patients; 3619 males (60.0%); mean [SD] age, 64.0 [9.5] years), there was no association between hypoglycemia and subsequent 3P-MACE plus hospitalization for HF (HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.76-1.32) and between nonfatal CV events and subsequent hypoglycemia (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 0.96-2.16). In analyses of CV events occurring within 60 days after hypoglycemia, there was either no association or too few events to analyze. Conclusions and Relevance: This study found bidirectional associations between hypoglycemia and CV outcomes in the CARMELINA trial but no associations in either direction in the CAROLINA trial, challenging the notion that hypoglycemia causes adverse CV events. The findings from the CARMELINA trial suggest that both hypoglycemia and CV events more likely identify patients at high risk for both. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01897532 (CARMELINA) and NCT01243424 (CAROLINA).

The OPTIFAST total and partial meal replacement programme reduces cardiometabolic risk in adults with obesity: Secondary and exploratory analysis of the OPTIWIN study.

AIM: The effects of weight loss with a partial or total meal replacement programme (MRP) on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk factors are not fully understood, in particular in people at higher CV risk. In the 52-week randomized controlled OPTIWIN study in men and women with obesity, meal replacement programme (total for first 26 weeks, partial for the ensuing 26 weeks) with OPTIFAST (OP) resulted in significantly greater weight loss compared with a low-calorie food-based (FB) dietary plan, both as part of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention [OP (n = 135)/FB (n = 138) week 26: -12.4%/-6.0%, p < .001; week 52: -10.5%/-5.5%, p < .001]. Here, we examined effects on ASCVD risk factors and 10-year ASCVD risk. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants with body mass index 30-55 kg/m2 and age 18-70 years, and not on anti-obesity medications, were recruited. The effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP), lipid parameters and 10-year ASCVD risk were analysed as changes over time using linear mixed models. Subgroup analyses were conducted for changes in SBP, DBP and ASCVD risk by categories of age (<40, 40-59, ≥60 years), baseline SBP (

Effects of an oral biodegradable device used for 12 weeks on weight reduction, cardiovascular risk factors, satiety, snacking, and meal size.

Background: The Epitomee Capsule (EC) is an, oral, self-use, bio-degradable device for weight management, composed of absorbent polymers that self-expands in the stomach (pH-sensitive) and creates a triangular shape, space-occupying super-absorbent gel structure. A recent study reported that 42 % of study completers obtained >5 % weight reduction at 12 weeks. We performed exploratory analyses of this study to evaluate its effect on cardiovascular risk factors and on self-reported satiety, between-meal snacking and meal-size. Methods: This single-center observational study (Israel) enrolled 78 volunteers, with mean age 41 years, BMI 32.5 kg/m2, systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) 124/77 mmHg. The EC was given in addition to diet and physical activity counseling. Assessments included anthropometrics, BP, lipids, and three questions (translated from Hebrew) scored 1 (not at all) to 5 (very much) for "Do you feel the EC - Q1:helps you to consume less snacks in between meals? Q2:helps you to eat less in the meal?; Q3:is causing an early sense of satiety?". Changes from baseline were assessed using a mixed model and included all patients with at least one measure. Correlation-analysis between weight-change and PROs used Kendall's tau. Result: Compared to baseline, at 12 weeks, SBP/DBP were reduced (ΔSBP: -5.5 mmHg, p = 0.0003/ΔDBP: -1.9 mmHg, p = 0.1341), with a larger effect in people with hypertension at baseline (ΔSBP: -13.2 mmHg, p < 0.00001/ΔDBP: -6.1, p = 0.008). Triglyceride-level was also significantly reduced, but not other lipids. Mean scores to Q1-3 were high throughout, with slight decreases (Q1 at W2 3.9 ± 1.1/W12 3.0 ± 1.6; Q2 at W2 3.7 ± 1.1/W12 3.1 ± 1.6; Q3 at W2 3.8 ± 1.2/W12 2.9 ± 1.6). There was a moderate correlation between PROs and weight reduction, although significance was not observed for all weeks. Conclusions: Exploratory analyses of 12 weeks treatment with EC demonstrated significant reductions in SBP, DBP, and triglycerides. The weight reduction correlated with satiety, less snacking, and reduced meal size.

Oligomalt, a New Slowly Digestible Carbohydrate, Is Well Tolerated in Healthy Young Men and Women at Intakes Up to 180 Gram per Day: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Trial.

In this randomized, double-blind triple-crossover study (NCT05142137), the digestive tolerance and safety of a novel, slowly digestible carbohydrate (SDC), oligomalt, an α-1,3/α-1,6-glucan α-glucose-based polymer, was assessed in healthy adults over three separate 7-day periods, comparing a high dose of oligomalt (180 g/day) or a moderate dose of oligomalt (80 g/day in combination with 100 g maltodextrin/day) with maltodextrin (180 g/day), provided as four daily servings in 300 mL of water with a meal. Each period was followed by a one-week washout. A total of 24 subjects (15 females, age 34 years, BMI 22.2 kg/m2, fasting blood glucose 4.9 mmol/L) were recruited, of whom 22 completed the course. The effects on the primary endpoint (the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Score (GSRS)) showed a statistically significant dose dependency, albeit of limited clinical relevance, between a high dose of oligomalt and maltodextrin (mean (95% CI) 2.29 [2.04, 2.54] vs. 1.59 [1.34, 1.83], respectively; difference: [-1.01, -0.4], p < 0.0001), driven by the GSRS-subdomains "Indigestion" and "Abdominal pain". The GSRS difference ameliorated with product exposure, and the GSRS in those who received high-dose oligomalt as their third intervention period was similar to pre-intervention (mean ± standard deviation: 1.6 ± 0.4 and 1.4 ± 0.3, respectively). Oligomalt did not have a clinically meaningful impact on the Bristol Stool Scale, and it did not cause serious adverse events. These results support the use of oligomalt across various doses as an SDC in healthy, normal weight, young adults.

Development of a tool to predict the risk of incident heart failure in a general population: the HUNT for HF risk score.

AIMS: Currently, no incident heart failure (HF) risk score that is in regular use in a general population is available. We aimed to develop this and compare with existing HF risk scores. METHODS AND RESULTS: Participants in the third wave (2006-08) of the population-based Trøndelag Health Study 3 (HUNT3) were included if they reported no previous HF. Any hospital diagnoses captured during follow-up (until the end of 2018) of HF, cardiomyopathy, or hypertensive heart disease were assessed by an experienced cardiologist. Valid HF events were defined as symptoms/signs of HF and objective evidence of structural/functional abnormality of the heart at rest. The model was compared with slightly modified HF risk scores (the Health Aging and Body Composition HF risk score, the Framingham HF risk score, the Pooled Cohort equations to Prevent HF risk score, and NORRISK 2). Among 36 511 participants (mean ± SD age of 57.9 ± 13.3 years, 55.4% female), with a mean follow-up of 10.2 ± 1.3 years, 1366 developed HF (incidence rate of 3.66 per 1000 participant years). Out of the 38 relevant clinical variables assessed, we identified 12 (atrial fibrillation being the strongest) that independently predicted an HF event. The final model demonstrated good discrimination (C statistics = 0.904) and calibration, was stable in internal validation, and performed well compared with existing risk scores. The model identified that, at enrolment, 31 391 (86%), 2386 (7%), 1246 (3%), and 1488 (4%) had low, low-intermediate, high-intermediate, and high 10-year HF risk, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Twelve clinical variables independently predicted 10-year HF risk. The model may serve well as the foundation of a practical, online risk score for HF in general practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04648852.

A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study to Evaluate Postprandial Glucometabolic Effects of Mulberry Leaf Extract, Vitamin D, Chromium, and Fiber in People with Type 2 Diabetes.

INTRODUCTION: Reducing postprandial (PP) hyperglycemia and PP glucose excursions is important for overall glycemic management. Although most therapeutic lifestyle interventions that reduce caloric intake would affect this, there is no particular nutritional intervention favored. METHODS: We evaluated the effects of a novel natural food adjuvant combining mulberry leaf extract (MLE) with other bioactive ingredients, in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) originating from Asia, on improving PP glucometabolic response in a randomized controlled exploratory crossover, two-center study (USA, Singapore). A 2-g blend of 250 mg MLE [containing 12.5 mg of 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ)], fiber (1.75 g), vitamin D3 (0.75 µg), and chromium (75 µg), compared with a similar blend without the MLE, was sprinkled over a 350-kcal breakfast meal (55.4 g carbs) and PP blood glucose (primary exploratory endpoint), insulin, and incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP) were evaluated in blood samples over 3 h. Changes in incremental areas under the concentration curve (iAUC) and maximum concentrations (Cmax) were compared. RESULTS: Thirty individuals (12 women, mean age 59 years, HbA1c 7.1%, BMI 26.5 kg/m2) were enrolled and the MLE-based blend relative to the blend without MLE significantly reduced glucose iAUC at 1 h (- 20%, p < 0.0001), 2 h (- 17%, p = 0.0001), and 3 h (- 15%, p = 0.0032) and Cmax [mean (95% CI) difference - 0.8 (- 1.2, - 0.3) mmol/L, p = 0.0006]. A statistically significant reduction in 1 h insulin iAUC (- 24%, p = 0.0236) was observed, but this reduction was no longer present at either 2 h or 3 h. No difference in GLP-1 was seen, but GIP response (iAUC and Cmax) was less with the MLE-based blend. CONCLUSIONS: The observation of a significant glucose reduction paralleled with a significant lower insulin response supports a reduced gastrointestinal glucose absorption. These results support the use of a 2-g natural blend of MLE, fiber, vitamin D, and chromium in T2D as a convenient dietary adjuvant to improve PP glucometabolic response. CLINICALTRIALS: gov identifier NCT04877366.

It is generally accepted that addressing lifestyle factors represents the initial step for treatment of type 2 diabetes. This includes an evaluation of how to optimize physical exercise and diet. However, although most diets that reduce caloric intake would affect sugar levels, there is no particular nutritional intervention favored, and choices depend on factors such as cost, preference, availabilities, and scientific evidence. A multiingredient food adjuvant blend for support of blood sugar levels combined mulberry leaf extract with fiber, vitamin D, and chromium, and was developed with the intended use to be sprinkled on and consumed with a meal. In this study involving 30 people with type 2 diabetes (mean age 59 years, glycated hemoglobin 7.1%, body mass index 26.5 kg/m²) originating from Asia, a 2-g blend of these ingredients was sprinkled over a 350-kcal breakfast meal rich in carbohydrates (55.4 g) and compared to a similar blend without the MLE. Blood sugar spikes following the meal were reduced by 15­20% over an observation period of 3 h. Thus, such a mulberry leaf extract-based blend, which also is a source of fiber, vitamin D, and chromium, may represent a convenient dietary support to improve sugar levels after a meal.

Chronic kidney disease and cognitive decline in patients with type 2 diabetes at elevated cardiovascular risk.

AIMS: We addressed the question whether chronic kidney disease (CKD) may contribute to cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes. METHODS: Participants with type 2 diabetes with elevated cardiovascular risk or CKD from cognition substudies of two large trials were studied prospectively (CARMELINA: n = 2666, mean ± SD age 68.1 ± 8.7 years, CAROLINA: n = 4296; 64.7 ± 9.4 years). Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) at baseline were related to cognitive performance (Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and attention and executive functioning score (A&E)) in linear regression analyses, adjusted for demographics, cardiovascular risk factors and treatment, at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: CKD at baseline was more common in CARMELINA than CAROLINA (eGFR<60 in 72.6 % and 19.6 %, macroalbuminuria in 35.0 % and 4.1 %, respectively). Baseline eGFR was related to A&E in CARMELINA (b = 0.02 per 10 ml/min/1.73m2, 95%CI [0.01,0.03]). Baseline UACR was related to A&E in CAROLINA (b = -0.01 per doubling of UACR mg/g, 95%CI [-0.02,-0.002]). Baseline UACR predicted decline in A&E in CAROLINA (median 6.1 years follow-up; b = -0.01, 95%CI [-0.03,-0.0001] per doubling of UACR mg/g). CONCLUSIONS: eGFR and UACR were associated with A&E in two cohorts with type 2 diabetes, enriched for CKD and cardiovascular disease. The small effect size estimates indicate limited impact of kidney dysfunction on cognition in this setting. GOV IDENTIFIERS: NCT01897532 NCT01243424.

Females with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk for accelerated cognitive decline than males: CAROLINA-COGNITION study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Cognitive dysfunction is increasingly recognized as an important comorbidity of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to establish if the risk of accelerated cognitive decline (ACD) is higher in females with T2D than males. METHODS AND RESULTS: 3163 participants (38% female) with T2D from the cognition substudy of CAROLINA® (NCT01243424) were included (mean age 64.4 ± 9.2 years; T2D duration 7.6 ± 6.1 years). The cognitive outcome was occurrence of ACD at end of follow-up, defined as a regression based index score ≤16th percentile on either the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or a composite measure of attention and executive functioning (Trail Making and Verbal Fluency Test). Potential confounders, were taken into account at an individual patient level. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate ACD risk by sex. We assessed potential mediators for sex differences in ACD using Causal Mediation Analysis (CMA). After a median follow-up duration of 6.1 ± 0.7 years, 361 (30.0%) females compared to 494 (25.2%) males exhibited ACD (OR 1.27 [95%CI 1.08-1.49], p = .003). Depressive symptoms, which were more common in females (24.3% vs 12.5%), mediated between sex and ACD (mediation effect 20.3%, p = 0.03). There were no other significant mediators. CONCLUSION: Females with T2D had a higher risk of ACD compared to males. This was partly explained by depressive symptoms. After evaluation of vascular and diabetes-related risk factors, complications and treatment, a major share of the higher risk of ACD in females remained unexplained. Our results highlight the need for further research on causes of sex-specific ACD in T2D.

Erratum to: Effect of linagliptin versus placebo on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in nephrotic-range proteinuria and type 2 diabetes (t2d): the carmelina randomised controlled trial.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfaa225.].

Role of a Digital Clinical Decision-Support System in General Practitioners' Management of COPD in Norway.

Background: The study investigated if a web-based clinical decision-support system (CDSS) tool would improve general practitioners' (GPs) accuracy of diagnosis and classification of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and whether nonpharmacological and pharmacological treatment would be better aligned with the COPD guidelines. Methods: GPs were randomized to either a single use of the CDSS or continuing standard of care. The clinical recommendations of the CDSS were based on the GOLD guidelines and provided suggestions for treatment and management of COPD. Data were collected digitally from GPs and patients in both groups using a tablet computer. A follow-up questionnaire was sent to the GPs 1 year after the conclusion of the study. Results: A total of 25 GPs (31% women, mean age 41 years) participated, 12 randomized to using the CDSS tool and 13 followed standard of care when assessing their next five to ten COPD patients. In sum, 149 patients with presumed COPD were included (88 CDSS group, 61 standard-of-care group). In the CDSS group, no COPD misdiagnoses occurred, 98% received vaccine recommendations, and all smokers (n=39) received smoking-cessation advice. The standard-of-care group had 23% misdiagnosis (P<0.001), only 67% received vaccine recommendations (P<0.001), and 87% smoking-cessation advice (P=0.022. All told, 31% of patients did not receive medication as recommended according to guidelines, with no significant differences between the groups. GPs rated the CDSS as very useful. Mean usage time was 3 minutes, 26 seconds. A majority (13 of 19, 68%) of the GPs continued using the CDSS after the conclusion of the study. CAT score identified twice as many patients as having more symptoms than the mMRC, indicating the added value of the multi-item questionnaire. Conclusion: Use of the CDSS was associated with preventing misdiagnosis of COPD and improved adherence to recommended nonpharmacological measures, but a single use did not improve pharmacological treatment considerations.

Effect of empagliflozin on cardiorenal outcomes and mortality according to body mass index: A subgroup analysis of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial with a focus on Asia.

AIM: To investigate whether the cardiorenal benefits of the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor empagliflozin are affected by body mass index (BMI) in type 2 diabetes patients with established cardiovascular (CV) disease, including Asians. METHODS: In this exploratory analysis of the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial, we used Cox regression to evaluate the effects of empagliflozin on all-cause mortality, hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) or CV death, and incident or worsening nephropathy by baseline BMI category. RESULTS: Of the 7020 participants (1517 Asians [21.6%]), 934 (13.3%), 2465 (35.1%) and 3621 (51.6%) had a BMI of less than 25, 25 to less than 30, and 30 kg/m2 or higher, respectively. Overall, hazard ratios for empagliflozin versus placebo for all-cause mortality, HHF or CV death, and incident or worsening nephropathy were 0.68 (95% CI 0.57, 0.82), 0.66 (0.55, 0.79) and 0.61 (0.53, 0.70), respectively, and were consistent across BMI categories (P values for interaction between treatment and BMI were .6772, .3087 and .6265, respectively). Results were similar in Asians using these BMI categories and categories of less than 24, 24 to less than 28, and 28 kg/m2 or higher. CONCLUSION: Empagliflozin reduced cardiorenal and mortality risk regardless of BMI at baseline, including in Asians with a lower BMI.

Differences in glycemic control between the treatment arms in cardiovascular outcome trials of type 2 diabetes medications do not explain cardiovascular benefits.

Hyperglycemia is an undisputed epidemiological risk factor for microvascular complications in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, integral in their causal pathways. Importantly, interventions that reduce the hyperglycemic burden in patients with either type of diabetes reduce the risk of microvascular complications (e.g., retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy). Hence, for microvascular risk, hyperglycemia is a proven risk factor and a proven treatment target, as reflected by treatment recommendations and guidelines across most scientific societies world-wide. However, although reducing the hyperglycemic burden to reduce microvascular risk remains a cornerstone of care for patients with type 2 diabetes, this therapeutic imperative does not apply to cardiovascular risk mitigation. This latter aspect is important in the context of interpreting therapeutic impact of treating hyperglycemia on risk for macrovascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes. This letter, in response to a previous paper, discuss how modest differential glucose control contribute little if anything to the results observed of contemporary cardiovascular outcome trials in type 2 diabetes.

Effects of linagliptin vs glimepiride on cognitive performance in type 2 diabetes: results of the randomised double-blind, active-controlled CAROLINA-COGNITION study.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Type 2 diabetes, particularly with concomitant CVD, is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment. We assessed the effect on accelerated cognitive decline (ACD) of the DPP-4 inhibitor linagliptin vs the sulfonylurea glimepiride in individuals with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: The CAROLINA-COGNITION study was part of the randomised, double-blind, active-controlled CAROLINA trial that evaluated the cardiovascular safety of linagliptin vs glimepiride in individuals with age ≥40 and ≤85 years and HbA1c 48-69 mmol/mol (6.5-8.5%) receiving standard care, excluding insulin therapy. Participants were randomised 1:1 using an interactive telephone- and web-based system and treatment assignment was determined by a computer-generated random sequence with stratification by center. The primary cognitive outcome was occurrence of ACD at end of follow-up, defined as a regression-based index score ≤16th percentile on either the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or a composite measure of attention and executive functioning, in participants with a baseline MMSE score ≥24. Prespecified additional analyses included effects on ACD at week 160, in subgroups (sex, age, race, ethnicity, depressive symptoms, cardiovascular risk, duration of type 2 diabetes, albuminuria), and absolute changes in cognitive performance. Participants, caregivers, and people involved in measurements, examinations or adjudication, were all masked to treatment assignment. RESULTS: Of 6033 participants recruited from hospital and primary care sites, 3163 (38.0% female, mean age/diabetes duration 64/7.6 years, MMSE score 28.5, HbA1c 54 mmol/mol [7.1%]) represent the CAROLINA-COGNITION cohort. Over median 6.1 years, ACD occurred in 27.8% (449/1618, linagliptin) vs 27.6% (426/1545, glimepiride), OR 1.01 (95% CI 0.86, 1.18). Also, no differences in ACD were observed at week 160 (OR 1.07 [0.91, 1.25]), between treatments across subgroups, or for absolute cognitive changes. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: In a large, international outcome trial in people with relatively early type 2 diabetes at elevated cardiovascular risk, no difference in risk for ACD was observed between linagliptin and glimepiride over 6.1 years. FUNDING: This study was sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01243424.

Effect of linagliptin versus placebo on cardiovascular and kidney outcomes in nephrotic-range proteinuria and type 2 diabetes: the CARMELINA randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Nephrotic-range proteinuria (NRP) is associated with rapid kidney function loss and increased cardiovascular (CV) disease risk. We assessed the effects of linagliptin (LINA) on CV and kidney outcomes in people with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) with or without NRP. METHODS: Cardiovascular and renal microvascular outcome study with LINA randomized participants with T2D and CV disease and/or kidney disease to LINA 5 mg or placebo (PBO). The primary endpoint [time to first occurrence of 3-point major adverse cardiac events (3P-MACE)], and kidney outcomes, were evaluated by NRP status [urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥2200 mg/g] at baseline (BL) in participants treated with one or more dose of study medication. RESULTS: NRP was present in 646/6979 [9.3% (LINA/PBO n = 317/n = 329); median UACR 3486 (Q1: 2746/Q3: 4941) mg/g] participants, who compared with no-NRP were younger (62.3/66.1 years) and had lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (39.9/56.1 mL/min/1.73 m2). Over a median of 2.2 years, 3P-MACE occurred with a 2.0-fold higher rate in NRP versus no-NRP (PBO group), with a neutral LINA effect, regardless of NRP. The composite of time to renal death, end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or decrease of ≥40 or ≥50% in eGFR, occurred with 12.3- and 13.6-fold higher rate with NRP (PBO group); evidence of heterogeneity of effects with LINA was observed for the former [NRP yes/no: hazard ratio 0.80 (0.63-1.01)/1.25 (1.02-1.54); P-interaction 0.005], but not the latter [0.83 (0.64-1.09)/1.17 (0.91-1.51), P-interaction 0.07]. No heterogeneity was observed for renal death or ESKD [0.88 (0.64-1.21)/0.94 (0.67-1.31), P-interaction 0.79]. Glycated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was significantly reduced regardless of NRP, without increasing hypoglycaemia risk. Regression to normoalbuminuria [1.20 (1.07-1.34)] and reduction of UACR ≥50% [1.15 (1.07-1.25)] from BL, occurred more frequently with LINA, regardless of NRP status (P-interactions >0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with T2D and NRP have a high disease burden. LINA reduces their albuminuria burden and HbA1c, without affecting CV or kidney risk.

Effect of linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, compared with the sulfonylurea glimepiride on cardiovascular outcomes in Asians with type 2 diabetes: subgroup analysis of the randomized CAROLINA® trial.

OBJECTIVE: Linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, recently demonstrated cardiovascular (CV) safety versus placebo in Asians with advanced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the CARMELINA® trial. We assessed its CV safety compared with the sulfonylurea glimepiride in Asians with relatively early T2DM in the CAROLINA® trial. METHODS: Based on prespecified and post hoc subgroup analyses of the multinational CAROLINA® trial in which adults with relatively early T2DM and elevated CV risk were randomized to linagliptin or glimepiride added to usual care, we analyzed data for participants from Asian countries. This included the primary outcome defined as time to first CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke [three-point major adverse cardiovascular events (3P-MACE)]. RESULTS: Of the 6033 participants, 933 (15.5%) were from Asia. During a median follow-up of 6.2 years, 3P-MACE occurred in 9.5% and 11.1% of the linagliptin and glimepiride groups, respectively (hazard ratio [HR] 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57-1.26]), consistent with the overall population (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.84-1.13; P = 0.17 for treatment by region interaction). Similarly, there were no significant differences between groups for other outcomes, including CV death (HR 0.73; 95% CI 0.38-1.38), non-CV mortality (HR 0.76; 95% CI 0.37-1.57) and hospitalization for heart failure (HR 0.89; 95% CI 0.36-2.19). Hypoglycemia adverse events occurred in 13.1% of linagliptin patients versus 42.1% of glimepiride patients (HR 0.25; 95% CI 0.19-0.33; P < 0.0001) despite similar glycemic control. Body weight was slightly lower with linagliptin relative to glimepiride: weighted average mean difference over 256 weeks of - 1.82 kg (95% CI - 2.28 to - 1.35). CONCLUSIONS: In Asian patients, linagliptin demonstrated similar CV safety to glimepiride with a markedly lower rate of hypoglycemia and modestly lower weight.

Impact of polyvascular disease with and without co-existent kidney dysfunction on cardiovascular outcomes in diabetes: A post hoc analysis of EMPA-REG OUTCOME.

AIM: To determine the relationship between polyvascular disease and risk of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) and cardiovascular (CV) death in the EMPA-REG OUTCOME population, and the relationship of kidney dysfunction co-existent with polyvascular disease on CV/heart failure (HF) outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with type 2 diabetes and atherosclerotic CV (ASCVD) received empagliflozin 10, 25 mg or placebo. Post hoc, subgroups were analyzed by one versus two or more vascular beds, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate ([eGFR] < vs. ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 ) at baseline. The empagliflozin arms were pooled. Time to CV death, HHF, CV death (excluding fatal stroke) or HHF, all-cause mortality (ACM) and 3-point major adverse CV events (3P-MACE) were assessed using multivariable Cox regression models. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics (N = 6959) within subgroups were balanced between treatment groups. In the placebo group, two or more versus one vascular bed increased HHF risk (1.59 [95% confidence interval 1.02, 2.49]), CV death (2.17 [1.52, 3.09]), CV death/HHF (1.79 [1.32, 2.43]), ACM (1.95 [1.44, 2.64]) and 3P-MACE (1.76 [1.36, 2.27]). Hazard ratios for those with polyvascular disease/kidney dysfunction (vs. 1 vascular bed/eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 ) were HHF 2.80 (1.46, 5.36), CV death 3.10 (1.87, 5.13), CV death/HHF 2.71 (1.74, 4.23), ACM 2.59 (1.67, 4.02) and 3P-MACE 2.62 (1.82, 3.77). Empagliflozin reduced the risk of all outcomes across subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: Polyvascular disease with/without kidney dysfunction markedly increases the risk of HF/CV events. Empagliflozin consistently reduces risk, regardless of vascular bed and kidney function status.

Empagliflozin treatment effects across categories of baseline HbA1c, body weight and blood pressure as an add-on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

AIM: To investigate the association of different categories of baseline cardio-metabolic risk factors on the treatment effects of empagliflozin 10 and 25 mg when added as second-line therapy to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients aged 18 years or older with HbA1c 7.0%-10.0% were included. Analysis of covariance compared change from baseline to weeks 24 and 76 in HbA1c, body weight (BW) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) by respective baseline categories (HbA1c <8.5/≥8.5%; BW <80/80-90/>90 kg, SBP <130/130-140/>140 mmHg). Analyses were also conducted with a model using continuous covariates of cardio-metabolic factors. RESULTS: In total, 637 patients (56.7% males; mean [SD] age 55.7 [9.9] years, HbA1c 7.9% [0.9%], BW 81.2 [18.8] kg, SBP 129.4 [14.6] mmHg) received one or more dose of either empagliflozin 10 mg (n = 217) or 25 mg (n = 213), or placebo (n = 207). At both time points, empagliflozin 10/25 mg versus placebo significantly (P < .0001) reduced HbA1c and BW, with greater reductions in HbA1c at higher baseline HbA1c (P interaction week 24/76 categorical and continuous models: .0290/.1431 and .0004/.0042, respectively) and in BW (P interaction .1340/.0012 and .0202/<.0001, respectively). Both empagliflozin doses also significantly lowered SBP versus placebo at both time points, with similar efficacy by subgroups of baseline SBP. Adverse events were consistent with the established empagliflozin safety profile across treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS: Empagliflozin, as add-on to metformin, decreases HbA1c and BW, particularly in patients with higher HbA1c and BW baseline values, and effectively lowers SBP.

Cardiovascular outcomes and safety with linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, compared with the sulphonylurea glimepiride in older people with type 2 diabetes: A subgroup analysis of the randomized CAROLINA trial.

AIM: To compare the cardiovascular (CV) safety of linagliptin with glimepiride in older and younger participants in the CAROLINA trial in both prespecified and post hoc analyses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: People aged 40 to 85 years with relatively early type 2 diabetes, inadequate glycaemic control and elevated CV risk were randomly assigned to linagliptin 5 mg or glimepiride 1 to 4 mg. The primary endpoint was time to first occurrence of three-point major adverse CV events (MACE: CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke). We evaluated clinical and safety outcomes across age groups. RESULTS: Of 6033 participants, 50.7% were aged <65 years, 35.3% were aged 65 to 74 years, and 14.0% were aged ≥75 years. During the 6.3-year median follow-up, CV/mortality outcomes did not differ between linagliptin and glimepiride overall (hazard ratio [HR] for three-point MACE 0.98, 95.47% confidence interval [CI] 0.84, 1.14) or across age groups (interaction P >0.05). Between treatment groups, reductions in glycated haemoglobin were comparable across age groups but moderate-to-severe hypoglycaemia was markedly reduced with linagliptin (HR 0.18, 95% CI 0.15, 0.21) with no differences among age groups (P = 0.23). Mean weight was -1.54 kg (95% CI -1.80, -1.28) lower for linagliptin versus glimepiride. Adverse events increased with age, but were generally balanced between treatment groups. Significantly fewer falls or fractures occurred with linagliptin. CONCLUSIONS: Linagliptin and glimepiride were comparable for CV/mortality outcomes across age groups. Linagliptin had significantly lower risk of hypoglycaemia and falls or fractures than glimepiride, including in "older-old" individuals for whom these are particularly important treatment considerations.

Cardiovascular outcomes and LDL-cholesterol levels in EMPA-REG OUTCOME®.

OBJECTIVE: It is well established that higher low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. We analyzed whether effects of empagliflozin on cardiovascular outcomes varied by different LDL-cholesterol levels at baseline in EMPA-REG OUTCOME. METHODS: Participants with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk received empagliflozin (10/25 mg) or placebo in addition to standard of care. We investigated the time to first 3P-MACE, cardiovascular death, hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) and all-cause mortality for empagliflozin versus placebo between baseline LDL-cholesterol categories <1.8, 1.8-<2.2, 2.2- <2.6, 2.6-3.0, and > 3.0 mmol/L, by a Cox regression including the interaction of baseline LDL-cholesterol category and treatment. RESULTS: Of the 7020 participants randomized and treated, 81.0% received lipid lowering therapy (77.0% statins). Mean ± SD LDL-cholesterol was 2.2 ± 0.9 mmol/L, and 38%/18%, had LDL-cholesterol <1.8/>3.0 mmol/L. Age, BMI, and HbA1c levels were balanced between the LDL-cholesterol subgroups, but those in the lowest versus highest group, had more coronary artery disease (83.0% vs 59.9%) and statin treatment (88.2% vs 50.9%). Empagliflozin consistently reduced all outcomes across LDL-cholesterol categories (all interaction p-values > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The beneficial cardiovascular effects of empagliflozin was consistent across higher and lower LDL-cholesterol levels at baseline.