Empagliflozin/linagliptin single‐tablet combination: first‐in‐class treatment option

BACKGROUND: The availability of a dual sodium glucose co‐transporter 2/dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor combination in a single‐tablet combination (STC) represents a new therapeutic option for patients with type 2 diabetes. Empagliflozin/linagliptin STC has been recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). AIM: The aim of this study was to describe the latest clinical evidence on the efficacy and safety profiles of empagliflozin/linagliptin STCs in comparison with the individual components. Juxtaposition of the STC with dapagliflozin/saxagliptin combination was also presented. RESULTS: Empagliflozin/linagliptin STC given as initial therapy or on metformin background lowered mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) by approximately 1.1% (mean baseline HbA1c, 8.0%). Furthermore, the STC reduced mean body weight by 2.0–3.0 kg from baseline. With the STC treatment, no confirmed incidents of hypoglycaemia were reported in drug‐naïve patients; in patients taking metformin hypoglycaemia occurred at low rates which were comparable with monotherapy. Use of STCs in the treatment of T2DM can simplify drug dosing regimen, reduce pill burden and increase treatment adherence. Empagliflozin/linagliptin STC is a combination that offers potential additional benefits such as body weight loss and moderate reductions in blood pressure, without increasing risk of hypoglycaemia. CONCLUSION: Empagliflozin/linagliptin STC appears to be a rational choice for a wide range of patients in need of multiple agents for controlling hyperglycaemia. The STC should be particularly useful in patients in whom hypoglycaemia, weight gain and treatment adherence are of concern.