Empagliflozin: transforming kidney care
In a recent trial, the EMPA-Kidney group, 2023 showed the significant benefits of SGLT2is in CKD patients.
Why is this important?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions globally, posing a risk for kidney failure and heart issues. Enter empagliflozin, initially used for diabetes but now under the spotlight for potentially safeguarding kidney health for many others. This shift could mean big things for those battling CKD.
What did the study show?
In the EMPA-KIDNEY trial (involved 6609 CKD patients), researchers gave empagliflozin to CKD patients and others a placebo (a sugar pill). The results were eye-opening: those on empagliflozin had a lower risk of their kidney disease worsening or experiencing heart problems compared to those on the placebo (29% reduction). Even better, patients on empagliflozin experienced a 50% slower decline in kidney function compared to those on placebo regardless of the CKD cause.
How does this affect you?
If you’re living with CKD, this news could be life-changing. Whether CKD stems from diabetes or another cause, empagliflozin appears to offer hope. So, if CKD is a part of your life, consider discussing empagliflozin (or another SGLT2i) with your doctor.
Note. This is a ‘class effect’, i.e. all SGLT2i’s benefit most CKD patients.
Blog written by Dr Soo Jang
(thekidneypharmacist on Instagram)
Last Reviewed on 26 June 2024
