Randomized Trial Comparing SGLT2 Inhibition and Hydrochlorothiazide on Sympathetic Traffic in Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction: Reductions in sympathetic nervous system activity may contribute to beneficial effects of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition on cardiovascular outcomes. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that SGLT2 inhibition with empagliflozin (Empa) lowers muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared with hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) to discern SGLT2-specific actions from responses to increased natriuresis. Methods: We randomized patients with T2DM on metformin monotherapy to either 25 mg/d Empa (n = 20) or 25 mg/d HCT (n = 21) for 6 weeks in a parallel, double-blind fashion. We assessed MSNA by peroneal microneurography, blood pressure, cardiovascular and metabolic biomarkers at baseline and at the end of treatment. Results: Both drugs elicited volume depletion, as indicated by increased thoracic impedance. Compared with HCT, Empa caused 1.23 kg more body weight loss (P = 0.011) and improved glycemic control. Seated systolic blood pressure decreased with both treatments (P < 0.002). MSNA did not change significantly with either treatment; however, MSNA changes were negatively correlated with changes in body weight on Empa (P = 0.042) and on HCT(P = 0.001). The relationship was shifted to lower MSNA on Empa compared with HCT (P = 0.002). Conclusion: Increased renal sodium excretion eliciting body weight loss may promote sympathetic activation. However, sympathetic excitation in the face of increased sodium loss may be attenuated by SGLT2 inhibitor-specific actions.

Automated summary

This study investigated the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor Empa and HCT on muscle sympathetic nerve activity in patients with type 2 diabetes. The results showed that although both drugs caused volume depletion, Empa had a more significant effect on body weight and glycemic control compared to HCT. Moreover, compared to HCT, Empa led to lower sympathetic nerve activity, indicating that Empa may attenuate sympathetic excitation caused by sodium loss through its specific actions.