The FDA has approved Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic to treat chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with Type 2 diabetes, expanding its role beyond diabetes management. Previously used primarily for blood sugar control and weight loss, Ozempic can now help slow kidney function decline, reduce the risk of kidney failure, and lower the chances of death from cardiovascular disease in these patients.
Empagliflozin is a medication primarily used for diabetes treatment, but researchers have investigated its effects on uric acid levels in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) through the EMPA-KIDNEY trial. This extensive study involved 6,609 patients with CKD, examining how empagliflozin affects uric acid levels, a naturally occurring substance that can cause gout when elevated. The trial was designed to compare patients taking empagliflozin against those taking a placebo over approximately two years. The researchers collected detailed data about kidney function, uric acid levels, and various other health markers throughout the study period.