Abstract
PURPOSE: To conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the effect of ertugliflozin on long-term hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), body weight and blood pressure (BP). METHODS: Online databases available were searched from their inception to February 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ertugliflozin to either placebo or an active control drug were included. Data on four efficacy outcomes were extracted, namely: HbA1c, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and body weight. Continuous outcomes were pooled using a random-effects model and presented as weighted mean differences (WMDs) and corresponding 95% CIs. Additionally, a subgroup analysis was done to compare two doses of ertugliflozin (5 mg and 15 mg). A sensitivity analysis was also performed by eliminating studies using active drugs as controls. RESULTS: From a total of 123 search results, eight studies were included. Compared to the control group, ertugliflozin was associated with a significant decrease in SBP (WMD: -3.64 mmHg, 95% CI [-4.39,-2.90]; p < 0.001; I(2) = 0%) and DBP (WMD: -1.13 mmHg, 95% CI [-1.67,-0.60], p < 0.001; I(2) = 0%). Similarly, significant reductions in body weight (WMD: -2.35 kg, 95% CI [-2.94,-1.77]; p < 0.001; I(2) = 0%) as well as HbA1c (WMD: -0.41%, 95% CI [-0.62,-0.20]; p < 0.001; I(2) = 0%) were seen with ertugliflozin. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no significant difference in efficacy between the two doses in any of the four outcomes. CONCLUSION: Ertugliflozin results in significant reductions in HbA1c, body weight, SBP and DBP, when compared to control. Subgroup analyses suggest that these effects are not dose-dependent.