What we are doing:
We are conducting a network meta-analysis to assess the comparative effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2is) in randomised controlled trials. Using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, a large comprehensive database of UK GP practices, we will assess the longitudinal effectiveness of SGLT-2is and GLP-1RAs in a real-world setting. Randomised controlled trial results will then be synthesised with real-world evidence to assess the differences and similarities in the effectiveness of these treatment classes in different settings.
Why we are doing it:
GLP-1RAs and SGLT-2is are two classes of newly developed glucose-lowering drugs for the treatment of hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Current ADA/EASD guidelines suggest either of these treatment classes as add-on therapies if current treatment is not sufficient in achieving glycemic control. Although GLP-1RAs and SGLT-2is have been compared to other glucose-lowering therapies, there is limited evidence available comparing GLP-1RAs to SGLT-2is to inform which should be preferred in the treatment of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this PhD aims to assess and compare the effectiveness of GLP-1RAs and SGLT-2is in randomised controlled trials and real-world evidence.
What the benefits will be:
The evidence from this research will provide useful information for professionals in the field of diabetes to make informed decisions on which treatment would benefit their patients the most. This research will also highlight the possible differences in effectiveness of treatments in randomised controlled trials in comparison to real-world evidence; these differences in treatment settings could be considered to improve treatment effectiveness in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Who we are working with:
- Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester
- Leicester Real-World Evidence Unit
- Biostatistics Research Group, University of Leicester
Contact:
Humaira Hussein, PhD student, University of Leicester, hh244@leicester.ac.uk.