Type 2 diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure globally, with few effective treatments. A trial investigated the effects of canagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease who were already on renin-angiotensin system blockers. This study focused on preventing end-stage kidney disease, significant increases in serum creatinine, or deaths related to renal and cardiovascular issues.

The trial ended early due to encouraging interim results, showing a 30% reduction in major kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in the canagliflozin group compared to placebo. Notably, the risks of end-stage kidney disease decreased by 34%, and cardiovascular incidents, including heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure hospitalizations, were significantly reduced. There were no notable increases in adverse effects such as amputations or fractures, underscoring canagliflozin’s potential as a protective treatment for heart and kidney health in this patient group.

Reference: Perkovic V, Jardine MJ, Neal B, et al. Canagliflozin and Renal Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes and Nephropathy. N Engl J Med. 2019 Jun 13;380(24):2295-2306. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1811744. Epub 2019 Apr 14. PMID: 30990260.