Chronic Kidney Disease

This month in endocrinology saw great strides in our understanding of semaglutide, the active ingredient in the Type-2 diabetes treatment drug Ozempic. A recent study by Novo Nordisk, makers of Ozempic, has found that this drug can be even more beneficial to diabetes patients struggling with kidney complications. This further develops the way that diabetes specialists can help patients lead richer, healthier lives.

Kidney disease is one of the most common results of diabetes. As kidney function deteriorates, the rate at which they filter blood decreases, leading to fluid and toxin buildup that further complicates blood pressure and increases the risk of heart issues. Recently, the New York Times published an article detailing the study and its findings.

For three and a half years, over 3,500 participants took weekly injections of semaglutide. A control population of half of these participants took a placebo. The study showed that participants who took the semaglutide had a 24% lower risk of experiencing a major kidney disease event. This also reduced their likelihood of dying from cardiovascular issues. 

This study still leaves a few unanswered questions regarding how exactly Ozempic tackles kidney disease, but the hypothesis suggests it may reduce inflammation. Additionally, the trial showed that participants were more likely to stop taking the drug due to gastrointestinal issues, a common side effect of Ozempic. The article by the New York Times also indicates that two-thirds of the participants were white, despite the fact that kidney disease disproportionately affects Black and Indigenous patients. Scientists are still examining semaglutide to understand how it impacts liver disease, sleep apnea, and other conditions. However, Novo Nordisk is currently in conversations with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update semaglutide to include its benefits for kidney disease based on these results. 

Kidney disease often goes unnoticed until it has reached the more advanced stages. PRINE Health’s diabetes and endocrinology centers work alongside nephrologists in our network to ensure that we provide comprehensive care to patients facing diseases that so thoroughly affect the system. 

Reach out to PRINE Health today, and let’s explore the best treatment plan for you and those you love.