New analysis shows Novartis’ Entresto improves glycemic control in reduced ejection fraction heart failure patients with diabetes. Novartis said on Saturday the new post-hoc analysis of PARADIGM-HF data demonstrates Entresto lowered levels of HbA1c (a measure of glycemic control) by 0.26% vs. 0.16% for ACE-inhibitor enalapril in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients who also had diabetes.
Also, new use of insulin was also reduced by 29% among patients taking Entresto compared to enalapril-treated patients, while up to 40% of HFrEF patients have diabetes, which is associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes, Novartis said.
Entresto is indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular (CV) death and hospitalization for HF in patients with chronic HF (NYHA Class II-IV) and reduced ejection fraction. It is not indicated to treat diabetes.
Scott Solomon, senior author of the publication pointed out that the analysis suggests that, in addition to the proven heart failure benefits demonstrated in PARADIGM-HF, Entresto may also help tighten glycemic control among heart failure patients with diabetes.
Fabrice Chouraqui, President of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation said: “On top of the already well-demonstrated clinical benefits of Entresto, a reduction in HbA1c levels in these type 2 diabetes patients is of great interest and shows us that further research is needed to better understand this metabolic effect of the drug. Novartis is committed to exploring the full potential of this important medication to maximize its value for heart failure patients managing their chronic condition.”