All patients with type 2 diabetes are likely to achieve cardiovascular protection from the use of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

Four studies involving 38,723 patients with type 2 diabetes receiving canagliflozin, empagliflozin, and dapagliflozin were included in the meta-analysis. In all, 3,828 major adverse cardiac event (MACE) outcomes, 1,192 hospitalizations for heart failure, 1,506 cardiovascular deaths, and 2,612 deaths from any cause were noted.

Those treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor, in comparison with placebo, were found to attain an overall 12% proportional reduction in MACE; 17% relative reduction in cardiovascular death; 32% relative reduction in hospitalization for heart failure; consistent cardiovascular benefits irrespective of baseline history of cardiovascular disease, heart failure or reduced kidney function; and a reduction in stroke events in patients with reduced kidney function.

Dr KK Aggarwal

President  HCFI