Effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitor (Empagliflozin) in reduction of albuminuria in type 2 Diabetics

Introduction: Diabetic kidney dysfunction is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) globally. Empagliflozin is a highly selective inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2). It is significantly related to the reduction of albuminuria, blood glucose, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and body weight in t2DM. In individuals with diabetic renal dysfunction, empagliflozin has been proven to reduce glomerular hyperfiltration and albuminuria.  Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of empagliflozin in reduction of albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: A retrospective observational study was carried out. Data were collected retrospectively by reviewing charts using a structured data collection questionnaire. Urinary albumin creatinine ratio (UACR), eGFR, BMI, HbA1c, blood pressure, and body weight were noted before the start of empagliflozin and after 12 months of treatment as well for comparison. This study was conducted at Mayo General Hospital, Castlebar. Results: A total of 80 diabetic individuals were recruited for the study based on inclusion criteria attending the endocrinology outpatient department. ACR levels were improved after empagliflozin therapy, with 90% of patients demonstrating reduced ACR levels to the normal limit (<3.4 mg/mmol) and only 10% of the patients having abnormal ACR levels between 3.4 and 33.9 mg/mmol.  Conclusion: Empagliflozin therapy significantly reduced the urinary albumin-creatinine ratio in patients with albuminuria over a period of 12 months. It also improved HbA1c levels, systolic blood pressure, BMI reduction, and eGFR. Keywords: Type 2 diabetes mellitus, diabetic kidney disease, SGLT2 inhibitors, Empagliflozin, albuminuria.