In a nutshell
This study investigated whether canagliflozin (Invokana) is safe and effective in type 2 diabetics with kidney disease.
Some background
Chronic high blood glucose (sugar) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) can result in many complications. Kidney disease is one such complication which ultimately results in kidney failure. In T2D patients with kidney disease, oral drugs such as metformin (Glucophage) are restricted. This is due to safety concerns and also the lack of effectiveness of these drugs when kidney disease is present.
Canagliflozin is a drug which increases the amount of glucose removed through urine. This drug can reduce blood glucose levels and blood pressure in T2D patients with stage 1, 2 or 3 (mild to moderate) kidney disease.
Methods & findings
This trial aimed to determine the safety and effectiveness of canagliflozin in T2D patients with stage 3 kidney disease. This study involved 269 patients divided into 3 groups. One group received 100 mg canagliflozin daily. Another group received 300 mg canagliflozin daily. The remaining group received a placebo (substance that does not have drug) daily. The safety and effectiveness were assessed after 1 year of treatment.
After 1 year, the HbA1c (average blood glucose levels over 3 months) was lower in participants treated with canagliflozin in comparison to the placebo group. Participants treated with 100 mg canagliflozin had a reduction of 0.27% in HbA1c in comparison to the placebo group. Participants treated with 300 mg canagliflozin had a reduction of 0.41% in HbA1c in comparison to the placebo group. Canagliflozin also lowered blood pressure and body weight more in comparison to the placebo.
The frequency of adverse events was similar in treatment and placebo groups. However, participants treated with 300 mg canagliflozin had a higher frequency of urinary tract infections.
The bottom line
This trial concluded that canagliflozin is effective in reducing blood glucose levels and is well tolerated in T2D patients.
The fine print
A study period longer than 1 year would be required to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of canagliflozin.
This study was funded by Janssen Research & Development, the developers of canagliflozin.
What’s next?
Consult your physician regarding the risks and benefits of canagliflozin treatment.
Published By :
Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism
Date :
Jun 25, 2014
