Effect of sodium–glucose transporter 2 inhibitor empagliflozin on proteinuria and kidney function progression in patients with non-diabetic glomerulonephritis: a pilot superiority randomized controlled trial
Abstract
Background: Amelioration of proteinuria is one of main treatment targets in patients with glomerulonephritis, yet the remission rates are suboptimal.
Aim of the study: To examine the effect of the sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) on proteinuria and kidney function progression, in patients with glomerulonephritis not due to diabetic kidney diseases.
Subjects and methods: Fifty patients were recruited. The entry criteria were diagnosis of glomerulonephritis, and proteinuria (proteinuria ≥ 500 mg⁄g) in spite of the use of the maximal tolerated dose of RAAS blocking agents together with specific immunosuppression treatment regimens. Group 1 (Empagliflozin arm): 25 patients who received 25 mg of empagliflozin once daily for 3 months as add-on to their regular treatment protocol (RAAS blockers and immunosuppression). Group 2 (Placebo arm): 25 patients treated with RAAS blockers and immunosuppression. The primary efficacy endpoints were the change in creatinine eGFR, and proteinuria 3 months after starting treatment.
Results: Progression of proteinuria was lower with empagliflozin as compared to placebo (odds ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.55 to 0.72, p = 0.002). Decline in eGFR was lower with empagliflozin as compared to placebo; however, this was statistically not significant (odds ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.82 to 1.2, p = .31). The percentage change in proteinuria was greater with empagliflozin as compared to placebo (median, - 77 (- 97-105) vs - 48 (- 80-117).…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 25 participants or records.
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