Therapy Combination Enhances Diabetes Remission According to Research
A groundbreaking study in China has revealed promising results for the combination of dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor, and calorie restriction in managing type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity.
Recent research suggests that both SGLT-2 inhibitors, such as dapagliflozin, and GLP-1 receptor agonists reduce body weight and improve glycemic control compared to placebo. Dapagliflozin, in particular, has shown a relatively safe profile, with significant decreases in HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels [1].
While direct randomized controlled trials combining dapagliflozin with calorie restriction are limited, meta-analyses indicate that dapagliflozin at a 10mg dose is associated with weight loss. However, head-to-head comparisons for achieving ≥5% weight loss are fewer for dapagliflozin compared to some other agents [1].
Non-pharmacological interventions, such as nutritional ketosis and calorie restriction, independently improve metabolic parameters and may be complementary to pharmacotherapy, including SGLT-2 inhibitors. Studies specifically integrating dapagliflozin with strict calorie restriction are still emerging [3].
The study, conducted over several months, involved participants aged 20-70 with recently diagnosed T2D, a BMI above 25, and specific blood sugar levels. The participants were randomly divided into two groups - one receiving dapagliflozin and the other a placebo. Both groups followed a calorie-restricted diet and increased physical activity [2].
The results showed that the dapagliflozin group experienced more significant weight loss and improvements in blood sugar levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, and other health indicators. Remarkably, nearly half of the participants in the dapagliflozin group achieved diabetes remission [2].
Despite the encouraging findings, the study did note two cases in the dapagliflozin group where participants required hospital care for urinary tract infections [2]. However, no severe or unexpected side effects were noted in the study.
The combination therapy significantly improves blood sugar levels, weight, and overall metabolic health without introducing additional risks. This combination may be particularly beneficial for individuals who have difficulty maintaining long-term lifestyle adjustments [4].
The study highlights the importance of tailoring diabetes care based on individual responses to treatments. As more targeted clinical trials are needed to fully characterise this combined approach's efficacy and safety profile, this area remains open for future investigation [1][3].
Adding medications like dapagliflozin to dietary changes may offer an additional boost in managing T2D and obesity. The combination of dapagliflozin and calorie restriction delivers better results than dietary changes alone [4]. Combining therapies, such as medication, diet, or exercise, can provide a more personalised and effective approach to diabetes management.
References: [1] Zhang, Y., et al. (2021). Dapagliflozin for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 9(1), 50-65. [2] Guo, X., et al. (2022). Dapagliflozin combined with calorie restriction for type 2 diabetes and obesity: a randomised controlled trial. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 10(1), 32-42. [3] Halperin, T. L., et al. (2019). The use of SGLT2 inhibitors in the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 104(3), 1099-1113. [4] American Diabetes Association. (2021). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes - 2021. Diabetes Care, 44(Suppl 1), S1-S151.
- The groundbreaking study in China combines the SGLT-2 inhibitor, dapagliflozin, with calorie restriction to manage type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, offering a potential approach for health and wellness, especially for those finding it hard to maintain long-term lifestyle adjustments.
- Research on dapagliflozin suggests it could be beneficial for managing chronic diseases like T2D, as it improves glycemic control and reduces body weight, making it an essential consideration in fitness and exercise and nutrition discussions.
- As the combination of dapagliflozin and calorie restriction delivers better results than dietary changes alone, the study underscores the importance of considering multiple strategies, including medical-conditions management, pharmacotherapy, and non-pharmacological interventions, to holistically address chronic diseases such as T2D and obesity.
