Dosage & Administration
• Recommended dose: 20 mg once daily, taken in the morning, with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Assess renal function before initiating BRENZAVVY and as clinically indicated. Correct volume depletion before initiating
• Not recommended if eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2.
• Withhold BRENZAVVY for at least 3 days, if possible, prior to major surgery or procedures associated with prolonged fasting .
Get Your Patient on Brenzavvy
Brenzavvy Prescribing Information
BRENZAVVY is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Limitations of Use
BRENZAVVY is not recommended for use to improve glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Testing Prior to Initiation and During Treatment with BRENZAVVY
• Assess renal function prior to initiation of BRENZAVVY and periodically thereafter as clinically indicated [see Warnings and Precautions ]. BRENZAVVY is not recommended in patients with an eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2
• Assess volume status. In patients with volume depletion, correct this condition before initiating BRENZAVVY [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Recommended Dosage
• The recommended dosage of BRENZAVVY is 20 mg orally taken once daily in the morning, with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology ].
• Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• If a dose is missed, take the missed dose as soon as possible. Do not double the next dose.
Temporary Interruption for Surgery
• Withhold BRENZAVVY for at least 3 days, if possible, prior to major surgery or procedures associated with prolonged fasting. Resume BRENZAVVY when the patient is clinically stable and has resumed oral intake [see Warnings and Precautions and Clinical Pharmacology ].
Tablets: 20 mg, blue, caplet-shaped, biconvex, bevel-edged, debossed with “2” and inverted “2” on one side.
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Based on animal data showing adverse renal effects, BRENZAVVY is not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
The available data on use of BRENZAVVY during pregnancy are insufficient to determine a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations).
In animal studies, adverse renal pelvic and tubule dilatations that were not fully reversible were observed in rats when bexagliflozin was administered during a period of renal development corresponding to the late second and third trimesters of human pregnancy at exposures 11 times the 20 mg clinical dose (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6% to 10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with a peri-conceptional HbA1c > 7% and has been reported to be as high as 20% to 25% in women with a peri-conceptional HbA1c > 10%. The estimated background risk of miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia occur more frequently during pregnancy in patients with pre-gestational diabetes. Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia related morbidity.
Data
Animal Data
Bexagliflozin administered to juvenile rats at 0.3, 3 or 30 mg/kg/day by oral gavage from postnatal days 21 to 90 caused a dose dependent increase in the incidence and severity of renal pelvic and tubular dilatation at ≥ 3 mg/kg (11 times the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC). These outcomes occurred with drug exposure during periods of renal development in rats equivalent to the late second and third trimester of human renal development and did not fully reverse following a 1-month recovery period.
In embryofetal development studies in rats and rabbits, bexagliflozin was administered at 7, 40, and 200 mg/kg/day (rats) and 5, 25, and 150 mg/kg/day (rabbits) during organogenesis. No adverse developmental effects were observed in rats at doses up to 200 mg/kg/day (551 times the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC). Reduced maternal body weight, embryo lethality, and fetal malformations were observed in rabbits at 150 mg/kg/day (368 times the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC).
In a prenatal and postnatal development study, bexagliflozin was administered to maternal rats by oral gavage during organogenesis and until weaning at doses of 7, 40, or 200 mg/kg/day. Maternal mortality occurred at ≥ 40 mg/kg (79 times the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC), primarily following parturition. Reduced gestational body weight, increased post-implantation loss, and smaller litter size were noted at 200 mg/kg (361 times the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC). In the offspring, lower body weight gain and decreased survival were noted at 200 mg/kg, which occurred in the presence of significant maternal toxicity.
Lactation
Risk Summary
There is no information regarding the presence of bexagliflozin in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. Bexagliflozin is excreted in the milk of lactating rats (see Data). When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. Since human kidney maturation occurs in utero and during the first 2 years of life when lactational exposure may occur, there may be risk to the developing human kidney. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, including the potential for bexagliflozin to affect postnatal renal development, advise patients that use of BRENZAVVY is not recommended while breastfeeding.
Data
Bexagliflozin was present in rat milk at a milk:plasma ratio of approximately 2. The concentration of bexagliflozin in animal milk does not necessarily predict the concentration of bexagliflozin in human milk.
Juvenile rats directly exposed to bexagliflozin showed a risk to the developing kidney (renal pelvic and tubular dilatation) during the period of renal development in rats corresponding to the late second and third trimester of human renal development.
Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of BRENZAVVY have not been established in pediatric patients.
Geriatric Use
In 9 clinical trials of BRENZAVVY, 1047 (40.6%) patients 65 years and older, and 212 (8.2%) patients 75 years and older were exposed to BRENZAVVY [see Clinical Studies ].
One of the 9 trials enrolled patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), and had a total of 571 (50%) patients treated with BRENZAVVY who were 65 years and older, and 113 (10%) patients treated with BRENZAVVY who were 75 years and older [see Clinical Studies ]. No overall differences in the effectiveness of BRENZAVVY have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger adult patients. Among patients aged 65 and older in this trial, volume depletion events were reported in 7.6% and 9.8% of patients in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively [see Warnings and Precautions ].
Renal Impairment
BRENZAVVY is not recommended in patients with an eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 due to the decline of the glucose lowering effect of BRENZAVVY and reduction in urine output in these patients [see Clinical Pharmacology ]. The recommended dosage for patients with an eGFR greater than or equal to 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 is the same as the recommended dosage for patients with normal renal function [see Dosage and Administration ].
The safety and efficacy of BRENZAVVY in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and moderate renal impairment (eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) were evaluated in Trial 5 [see Clinical Studies ]. Efficacy and safety studies with BRENZAVVY did not enroll patients with an eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2.
BRENZAVVY-treated patients with renal impairment may be more likely to experience adverse reactions associated with BRENZAVVY treatment, including female genital mycotic infection, increased urination, and thirst, and may be at higher risk for volume depletion and acute kidney injury [see Warnings and Precautions and Adverse Reactions ].
Hepatic Impairment
BRENZAVVY has not been studied in patients with severe hepatic impairment and is not recommended for use in this patient population. The recommended dosage for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment is the same as the recommended dosage for patients with normal hepatic function [see Clinical Pharmacology ].
BRENZAVVY is contraindicated in patients:
- With hypersensitivity to bexagliflozin or any excipient in BRENZAVVY. Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Other Ketoacidosis
In patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, BRENZAVVY significantly increases the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening event, beyond background rate. In placebo-controlled trials of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus, the risk of ketoacidosis was markedly increased in patients who received sodium glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors compared to patients who received placebo. BRENZAVVY is not indicated for glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus and pancreatic disorders (e.g., history of pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery) are also risk factors for ketoacidosis. There have been postmarketing reports of fatal events of ketoacidosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using SGLT2 inhibitors.
Precipitating conditions for diabetic ketoacidosis or other ketoacidosis include under-insulinization due to insulin dose reduction or missed insulin doses, acute febrile illness, reduced caloric intake, ketogenic diet, surgery, volume depletion, and alcohol abuse.
Signs and symptoms are consistent with dehydration and severe metabolic acidosis and include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, generalized malaise, and shortness of breath. Blood glucose levels at presentation may be below those typically expected for diabetic ketoacidosis (e.g., less than 250 mg/dL). Ketoacidosis and glucosuria may persist longer than typically expected. Urinary glucose excretion persists for 3 days after discontinuing BRENZAVVY [see Clinical Pharmacology ]; however, there have been postmarketing reports of ketoacidosis and/or glucosuria lasting greater than 6 days and some up to 2 weeks after discontinuation of SGLT2 inhibitors.
Consider ketone monitoring in patients at risk for ketoacidosis if indicated by the clinical situation. Assess for ketoacidosis regardless of presenting blood glucose levels in patients who present with signs and symptoms consistent with severe metabolic acidosis. If ketoacidosis is suspected, discontinue BRENZAVVY, promptly evaluate, and treat ketoacidosis, if confirmed. Monitor patients for resolution of ketoacidosis before restarting BRENZAVVY.
Withhold BRENZAVVY, if possible, in temporary clinical situations that could predispose patients to ketoacidosis. Resume BRENZAVVY when the patient is clinically stable and has resumed oral intake [see Dosage and Administration ].
Educate all patients on the signs and symptoms of ketoacidosis and instruct patients to discontinue BRENZAVVY and seek medical attention immediately if signs and symptoms occur.
Lower Limb Amputation
An increased incidence of lower limb amputations occurred in BRENZAVVY-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients (8.3 versus 5.1 events per 1,000 patient-years) in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluating patients with type 2 diabetes who had either established cardiovascular disease (CVD) or were at risk for CVD (Trial 6). Additional amputation data from Trial 6 are shown in Table 2 [see Adverse Reactions ]. Of the 23 BRENZAVVY-treated patients who had amputations, 15 were amputations of the toe and midfoot and 8 were amputations above and below the knee. Some patients had multiple amputations.
Lower limb infections, gangrene, ischemia, and osteomyelitis were the most common precipitating medical events leading to the need for an amputation. The risk of amputation was highest in patients with a baseline history of prior amputation, peripheral vascular disease, and neuropathy.
Before initiating BRENZAVVY, consider factors in the patient history that may predispose to the need for amputations, such as a history of prior amputation, peripheral vascular disease, neuropathy and diabetic foot ulcers. Counsel patients about the importance of routine preventative foot care. Monitor patients receiving BRENZAVVY for signs and symptoms of infection (including osteomyelitis), new pain or tenderness, sores or ulcers involving the lower limbs, and discontinue BRENZAVVY if these complications occur.
Volume Depletion
BRENZAVVY can cause intravascular volume contraction which may sometimes manifest as symptomatic hypotension or acute transient changes in creatinine [see Adverse Reactions ]. There have been postmarketing reports of acute kidney injury, some requiring hospitalization and dialysis, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving SGLT2 inhibitors. Patients with impaired renal function (eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) [see Use in Specific Populations ], elderly patients, patients with low systolic blood pressure, or patients on loop diuretics may be at increased risk for volume depletion or hypotension. Before initiating BRENZAVVY in patients with one or more of these characteristics, assess volume status and renal function [see Dosage and Administration ]. In patients with volume depletion, correct this condition before initiating BRENZAVVY. Monitor for signs and symptoms of volume depletion, and renal function after initiating therapy.
Urosepsis and Pyelonephritis
There have been reports of serious urinary tract infections, including urosepsis and pyelonephritis, requiring hospitalization in patients receiving SGLT2 inhibitors, including BRENZAVVY. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors, including BRENZAVVY, increases the risk for urinary tract infections. Evaluate patients for signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections and treat promptly, if indicated [see Adverse Reactions ].
Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues
Insulin and insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas) are known to cause hypoglycemia. BRENZAVVY may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with insulin and/or an insulin secretagogue [see Adverse Reactions ]. A lower dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be required to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with BRENZAVVY.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier’s Gangrene)
Reports of necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier’s Gangrene), a rare but serious and life-threatening necrotizing infection requiring urgent surgical intervention, have been identified in postmarketing surveillance in patients with diabetes mellitus receiving SGLT2 inhibitors. Cases have been reported in both females and males. Serious outcomes have included hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and death.
Patients treated with BRENZAVVY presenting with pain or tenderness, erythema, or swelling in the genital or perineal areas, along with fever or malaise, should be assessed for necrotizing fasciitis. If suspected, start treatment immediately with broad-spectrum antibiotics and, if necessary, surgical debridement. Discontinue BRENZAVVY, closely monitor blood glucose levels, and provide appropriate alternative therapy for glycemic control.
Genital Mycotic Infections
BRENZAVVY increases the risk of genital mycotic infections [see Adverse Reactions ]. Patients who have a history of genital mycotic infections or who are uncircumcised are more likely to develop genital mycotic infections. Monitor and treat appropriately.
The following important adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Other Ketoacidosis [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Lower Limb Amputation [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Volume Depletion [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Urosepsis and Pyelonephritis [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier’s Gangrene) [see Warnings and Precautions ]
- Genital Mycotic Infections [see Warnings and Precautions ]
Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
Pool of Placebo-Controlled Trials Evaluating BRENZAVVY 20 mg
The data in Table 1 are derived from three trials in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: two 24-week placebo-controlled trials (one as monotherapy and another as add-on to metformin therapy; Trials 1 and 2, respectively) [see Clinical Studies ] and a 12-week, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging, monotherapy trial (only the data from the 20 mg dosage of BRENZAVVY per day were included in this pool). In these pooled trials, patients received placebo (N = 300) or BRENZAVVY 20 mg (N = 372), once daily. The mean age of the population was 56 years and 5% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Fifty-seven percent (57%) were male and 45% were White, 38% Asian, 15% Black and 2% other races. At baseline, the mean duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus was 7.7 years and the mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 8.2%. Established microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus at baseline included diabetic nephropathy (0.8%), retinopathy (24%), and peripheral neuropathy (33%). Baseline renal function was eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 in 98% of patients and eGFR 45 to < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 in 2% of patients (mean eGFR 92 mL/min/1.73 m2).
Table 1 shows common adverse reactions associated with the use of BRENZAVVY in these trials. These adverse reactions occurred more commonly in BRENZAVVY-treated patients than placebo-treated patients, and occurred in at least 2% of BRENZAVVY-treated patients.
Table 1. Adverse Reactions in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - Monotherapy or in Combination with Metformin*
Percentage of Patients | ||
Placebo N = 300 | BRENZAVVY N = 372 | |
Increased urination a | 3 | 7 |
Urinary tract infection b | 4 | 6 |
Female genital mycotic infections c | 0 | 6 |
Thirst d | 2 | 3 |
Vaginal pruritus e | 0 | 3 |
Male genital mycotic infection f | 1 | 2 |
Hypoglycemia | 1 | 2 |
* The three placebo-controlled trials included two monotherapy trials and one add-on combination trial with metformin in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (Trials 1, 2, and a 12-week dose ranging trial). Adverse reactions were those that occurred more commonly in BRENZAVVY-treated patients than placebo-treated patients and occurred in at least 2% of BRENZAVVY-treated patients.
a Includes: polyuria, pollakiuria, micturition urgency, nocturia.
b Includes: dysuria, urinary tract infection, nitrite urine present, streptococcal urinary tract infection, cystitis.
c Includes: vulvovaginal mycotic infection, vaginal infection, genital infection fungal, vulvovaginal candidiasis. Percentages calculated with the number of female patients in each group as denominator: placebo (N = 130), BRENZAVVY (N = 156).
d Includes: thirst, polydipsia.
e Includes: pruritus genital, vulvovaginal pruritus. Percentages calculated with the number of females in each group as denominator: placebo (N = 130), BRENZAVVY (N = 156).
f Includes: balanoposthitis, genital infection fungal, tinea cruris. Percentages calculated with the number of males in each group as denominator: placebo (N = 170), BRENZAVVY (N = 216).
Clinical Trial in Patients with Increased Risk for Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events
BRENZAVVY was evaluated in a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established (CVD) or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6) [see Clinical Studies ]. Patients on standard of care therapy for diabetes management were randomized to receive add-on therapy with either placebo (N = 567) or BRENZAVVY 20 mg once daily (N = 1,132) for a minimum duration of 52 weeks (median duration 2.4 years). The most common adverse reactions observed in this trial were generally consistent with other trials of BRENZAVVY in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (see Table 1).
Other Adverse Reactions
Lower Limb Amputations
An increased incidence of non-traumatic lower limb amputations occurred in BRENZAVVY-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients in a trial (Trial 6) that evaluated adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD. Patients in this trial were followed for a median duration of 2.4 years. The lower limb amputation data are shown in Table 2.
Table 2. Non-traumatic Lower Limb Amputation in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus who had either Established Cardiovascular Disease or were at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease (Trial 6)
Placebo N = 567 | BRENZAVVY N = 1,132 | |
Patients with an amputation, n (%) | 7 (1.2%) | 23 (2.0%) |
Total amputations | 13 | 25 |
Amputation incidence rate (per 1,000 patient-years) | 5.1 | 8.3 |
Hazard Ratio (95% CI) | - | 1.64 (0.70, 3.82) |
Note: Incidence is based on the number of patients with at least one amputation, and not the total number of amputation events. A patient’s follow-up is calculated from Day 1 to the first amputation event date. Some patients had more than one amputation.
Volume Depletion
In a trial of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and moderate renal impairment (Trial 5), adverse reactions related to volume depletion (e.g., dehydration, dizziness, dizziness postural, vertigo, vertigo positional, presyncope, hypotension, and orthostatic hypotension) were reported in 3.9% and 8.9% of patients treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively.
Genital Mycotic Infections
In a pool of three placebo-controlled clinical trials (12-week dose ranging trial and Trials 1 and 2), the incidence of female genital mycotic infections occurred in 0% and 5.6% of females treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively (see Table 1). In the same pool of trials, male genital mycotic infections occurred in 1.4% and 2.2% of males treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively (see Table 1). In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and moderate renal impairment (Trial 5), 0% and 9.2% of female patients treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively, had a genital mycotic infection.
In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), 2.8% and 9.0% of patients treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively, had at least one event of genital mycotic infection. In the same trial, genital mycotic infections that caused drug discontinuation were reported in 0% and 1.2% of patients treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively. Balanoposthitis was reported in 0% and 2.9% of male patients, and phimosis was reported in 0.3% and 0.5% of male patients treated with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively. Patients treated with BRENZAVVY with events of phimosis typically underwent circumcision.
Fractures
In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), the incidence rates of serious fractures, including events of hip and femur fracture, were 1.4 and 5.4 events per 1,000 patient-years of follow-up in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The imbalance in serious fractures was observed within the first 6 months of therapy and remained through the end of the trial.
Hypoglycemia
The incidence of hypoglycemia by trial is shown in Table 3.
Table 3. Incidence of Overall* and Severe† Hypoglycemia in Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Placebo | BRENZAVVY | |
Monotherapy (24 weeks) (Trial 1) | ||
All subjects -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] | N = 69 0 (0) 0 (0) | N = 138 0 (0) 0 (0) |
Add-on to Metformin (24 weeks) (Trial 2) | ||
All subjects -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] | N = 159 0 (0) 0 (0) | N = 158 1 (0.6) 0 (0) |
Add-on to Standard of Care Therapy in Patients with Moderate Renal Impairment (24 weeks) (Trial 5) β | ||
All subjects -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] Subjects on background insulin and/or sulfonylurea -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] | N = 155 0 (0) 0 (0) N = 109 0 (0) 0 (0) | N = 157 2 (1.3) 1 (0.6) N = 106 2 (1.9) 1 (0.9) |
Add-on to Standard of Care Therapy in Patients with Increased CV Risk (Trial 6) β | ||
All subjects -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] Subjects on background insulin and/or sulfonylurea -Overall [N (%)] -Severe [N (%)] | N = 567 11 (1.9) 8 (1.4) N = 454 10 (2.2) 8 (1.8) | N = 1,132 23 (2.0) 10 (0.9) N = 923 22 (2.4) 10 (1.1) |
* Overall hypoglycemia: plasma or capillary glucose of less than 54 mg/dL.
† Severe hypoglycemia: patient required assistance, lost consciousness, or experienced a seizure (irrespective of blood glucose concentration).
β No restrictions were placed on background antihyperglycemic therapy (aside from treatment with another SGLT2 inhibitor) and approximately 50% of patients used insulin and/or an insulin secretagogue at baseline.
Rash and Dermatitis
In the clinical program of BRENZAVVY, one event of rash and one event of dermatitis was confirmed to be attributable to BRENZAVVY exposure by withdrawal and rechallenge. The rash and dermatitis events occurred on day 37 and day 3 of exposure to BRENZAVVY, respectively. In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), 3.4% and 5.4% of patients experienced at least one event of rash with placebo and BRENZAVVY, respectively.
Sepsis
BRENZAVVY was associated with an increased risk of sepsis/septic shock events, including events that may have caused or contributed to death, in a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6). Sepsis events occurred in 2 (0.4%) and 14 (1.2%) of placebo-treated patients and BRENZAVVY-treated patients in the trial, respectively. Of these, 1 sepsis event among placebo-treated patients and 3 sepsis events among BRENZAVVY-treated patients were related to urinary tract infections.
Laboratory Abnormalities
Changes in Serum Creatinine and eGFR
Initiation of BRENZAVVY causes an increase in serum creatinine and decrease in eGFR within weeks of starting therapy that stabilizes by week 6 to 12. In a trial enrolling adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and moderate renal impairment (Trial 5), a mean change in serum creatinine of 0.0 mg/dL and a decrease in eGFR of 0.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 was observed in the placebo group as compared to a mean increase in serum creatinine of 0.1 mg/dL and a mean decrease in eGFR of 4.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 with BRENZAVVY, within the first 6 weeks of treatment. In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), an initial decrease in eGFR was seen within weeks of starting therapy (eGFR changes from baseline to week 12 of 0 and -3.1 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the placebo and BRENZAVVY arms, respectively). Acute hemodynamic changes may play a role in the early renal function changes observed with BRENZAVVY since they are reversed after treatment discontinuation.
Increases in Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C)
In a pool of two placebo-controlled clinical trials (Trials 1 and 2), mean LDL-C decreased by 3.8 mg/dL (3.7%) in patients treated with placebo (N = 195) and increased by 1.7 mg/dL (1.6%) in patients treated with BRENZAVVY (N = 247) at week 24. In a trial that enrolled adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either established CVD or were at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6), LDL-C increased by 3 mg/dL (3.2%) and 3 mg/dL (4.1%) with placebo and BRENZAVVY treatment, respectively, at Week 24.
Increases in Hemoglobin and Hematocrit
In a pool of two placebo-controlled trials (Trials 1 and 2), mean changes from baseline to Week 24 in hemoglobin were -0.3 g/dL (-2.1%) with placebo and 0.4 g/dL (2.9%) with BRENZAVVY. In the same pool, mean changes from baseline to Week 24 in hematocrit were -0.6% with placebo and 1.3% with BRENZAVVY 20 mg. Fewer patients had > 2 g/dL increases in hemoglobin from baseline for placebo (0.5%) compared to BRENZAVVY (4.9%). Increases in hemoglobin > 3 g/dL from baseline were observed in 0% of placebo-treated patients compared to 0.7% of BRENZAVVY-treated patients.
See Table 4 for clinically significant interactions with BRENZAVVY.
Table 4. Clinically Significant Interactions with BRENZAVVY
UGT Enzyme Inducers | |
Clinical Impact | UGT Enzyme Inducers may significantly reduce exposure to BRENZAVVY and lead to a decreased efficacy [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)]. |
Intervention | Consider adding another antihyperglycemic agent in patients who require additional glycemic control. |
Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues | |
Clinical Impact | The risk of hypoglycemia is increased when BRENZAVVY is used in combination with insulin and/or an insulin secretagogue. |
Intervention | A lower dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be required to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with BRENZAVVY. |
Lithium | |
Clinical Impact | Concomitant use with SGLT2 inhibitors such as BRENZAVVY may decrease serum lithium concentrations. |
Intervention | Monitor serum lithium concentration more frequently upon BRENZAVVY initiation and discontinuation. |
Positive Urine Glucose Test | |
Clinical Impact | SGLT2 inhibitors increase urinary glucose excretion and will lead to positive urine glucose tests. |
Intervention | Monitoring glycemic control with urine glucose tests is not recommended in patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors. Use alternative methods to monitor glycemic control. |
Interference with 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) Assay | |
Clinical Impact | Measurements of 1,5-AG are unreliable in assessing glycemic control in patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors. |
Intervention | Monitoring glycemic control with 1,5-AG assay is not recommended. Use alternative methods to monitor glycemic control. |
BRENZAVVY tablets for oral use contain bexagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor.
The chemical name of bexagliflozin is (2S,3R,4R,5S,6R)-2-(4-chloro-3-(4-(2-cyclopropoxyethoxy)benzyl)phenyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4,5-triol.
The molecular formula is C24H29ClO7 and the molecular weight is 464.94 g/mol. The structural formula is:
Bexagliflozin is a white/off-white to pale yellow powder. It is very slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in methanol, acetone, ethylene glycol, and propylene glycol. It is slightly soluble in heptane, cyclohexane, and toluene. Crystalline bexagliflozin is not hygroscopic.
Each film-coated tablet contains 20 mg of bexagliflozin and the inactive ingredients colloidal silicon dioxide, glyceryl dibehenate, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene oxide, and poloxamer 188. In addition, the film coating ingredient, Opadry® II Blue 85F99153, contains the inactive ingredients FD&C Blue #1/Brilliant Blue FCF Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue #2/Indigo Carmine Aluminum Lake, macrogol 3350, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, talc, and titanium dioxide.
Mechanism of Action
Bexagliflozin is an inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2), the transporter responsible for reabsorption of the majority of glucose from the renal glomerular filtrate in the renal proximal tubule. By inhibiting SGLT2, bexagliflozin reduces renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, and thereby increases urinary glucose excretion.
Pharmacodynamics
Urinary Glucose Excretion and Urinary Volume
Dose-dependent increases in urinary glucose excretion (UGE) accompanied by increases in urine volume were observed in healthy subjects and in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus following single- and multiple-dose administration of bexagliflozin. Dose-response analysis indicates that 20 mg bexagliflozin provides near-maximal UGE. Elevated UGE was maintained after multiple-dose administration.
Cardiac Electrophysiology
At 5 times the recommended dose, bexagliflozin does not prolong the QTc interval to any clinically significant extent.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of bexagliflozin are similar in healthy subjects and adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Following dosing in the fasted state, mean Cmax and AUC0-∞ were 134 ng/mL and 1,162 ng·h/mL, respectively. Bexagliflozin does not exhibit time-dependent pharmacokinetics and accumulates in plasma up to ~20% following multiple dosing.
Absorption
Following oral administration of BRENZAVVY, peak plasma concentrations of bexagliflozin were reached between 2 – 4 hours post-dose and can be delayed if taken after a meal or by medications that slow gastric emptying. Plasma Cmax and AUC of bexagliflozin increase in a dose-proportional manner following single doses from 3 mg (0.15 times the recommended dose) to 90 mg (4.5 times the recommended dose).
Effect of Food
Administration of BRENZAVVY after consumption of a standard high-fat, high-caloric meal increased Cmax and AUC by 31% and 10%, respectively, compared to dosing in the fasted state. The median Tmax was increased to 5 hours. The effects of food on bexagliflozin pharmacokinetics are not considered clinically relevant [see Dosage and Administration ].
Distribution
Bexagliflozin is approximately 93% bound to plasma protein. Neither renal nor hepatic impairment substantially alters protein binding. The apparent volume of distribution is 262 L.
Elimination
Metabolism
Bexagliflozin is mainly metabolized by UGT1A9 and, to a lesser extent, CYP3A. In plasma the most abundant metabolite is the pharmacologically inactive 3′-O-glucuronide, which was found to constitute 32.2% of the parent compound AUC in a radiolabeled tracer study. None of the metabolites are expected to have clinically relevant pharmacological effects.
Excretion
The apparent oral clearance of bexagliflozin is 19.1 L/h by population pharmacokinetic modeling. The apparent terminal elimination half-life of bexagliflozin was approximately 12 hours. Following administration of an oral [14C]-bexagliflozin solution to healthy subjects, 91.6% of input radioactivity was recovered, 51.1% in feces, the majority as bexagliflozin, and 40.5% in urine, largely as the 3′-O-glucuronide. The proportion of input radioactivity recovered as bexagliflozin in urine and feces was 1.5% and 28.7%, respectively
Specific Populations
Patients with Renal Impairment
In a clinical pharmacology study in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and mild (eGFR 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2), moderate (eGFR 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2), and severe (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2) renal impairment, the AUC of bexagliflozin was 7%, 34% and 54% greater than in patients with normal renal function, respectively, after administration of a single 20 mg dose of BRENZAVVY. These increases in bexagliflozin AUC are not considered clinically meaningful.
Consistent with the mechanism of action of bexagliflozin, the 24-hour UGE in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment was 17%, 60%, and 83% lower than in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with normal renal function, respectively. Therefore, the glucose-lowering pharmacodynamic response to bexagliflozin declines with increasing severity of renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration , Warnings and Precautions , Use in Specific Populations , and Clinical Studies ]. The impact of hemodialysis on bexagliflozin exposure is not known.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment
In patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B), the AUC of bexagliflozin increased by 28%, and Cmax increased by 6.3% compared to subjects with normal hepatic function. These increases in bexagliflozin AUC and Cmax are not considered clinically meaningful. There is no clinical experience in patients with Child-Pugh class C (severe) hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations
Effects of Age, Body Weight, Sex, and Race
Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis, age, body weight, sex and race do not have a clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of bexagliflozin.
Drug Interaction Studies
In vitro Assessment of Drug Interactions
Based on in vitro studies, bexagliflozin is not expected to inhibit CYP450 isoenzymes (CYPs) 1A2, 2B6, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, and 3A4, or induce CYPs 1A2, 2C19 and 3A4 at clinically relevant plasma concentrations.
Bexagliflozin is not expected to inhibit drug transporters including breast cancer resistance protein (BRCP), bile salt export pump (BSEP), organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATP1B1, OATP1B3), anion transporters (OAT1, OAT3), organic cation transporters (OCT1, OCT2), and multidrug and toxin extrusion transporters (MATE1, MATE2-K) at clinically relevant plasma concentrations. Bexagliflozin is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp).
In vivo Assessment of Drug Interactions
There are no clinically meaningful changes in bexagliflozin exposure when taken with metformin, glimepiride, sitagliptin, exenatide, probenecid, or verapamil . Bexagliflozin had no clinically relevant effect on the pharmacokinetics of metformin, glimepiride, sitagliptin, and digoxin .
Figure 1. Effect of Other Drugs on the Pharmacokinetics of Bexagliflozin
Note: Rifampin dosing over 5 days, the regimen may not represent the maximal impact on bexagliflozin exposure. All others were single day dosing (once daily or twice daily).
Figure 2. Effect of Bexagliflozin on the Pharmacokinetics of Other Drugs
Note: Single day dosing.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Carcinogenesis
Carcinogenesis was evaluated in 2-year studies in CD-1 mice at oral gavage doses of 15, 50, and 150 mg/kg/day and in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats at 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg/day. In male rats, the dose was reduced to 1, 3, and 10 mg/kg/day at week 73 due to exacerbation of chronic progressive nephropathy resulting in excessive mortality. There were no drug-related neoplastic findings in mice or rats at up to the highest doses tested representing up to 156 times (mice) and 68 times (rats) the clinical dose of 20 mg based on AUC.
Mutagenesis
Bexagliflozin was not mutagenic or clastogenic with or without metabolic activation in the in vitro Ames bacterial mutagenicity assay, the in vitro CHO cell assay, an in vivo micronucleus assay in rats, and an in vivo unscheduled hepatic DNA synthesis study in rats.
Impairment of Fertility
Bexagliflozin had no effects on mating, fertility or early embryonic development in male or female rats at any dose up to the highest dose of 200 mg/kg/day, which resulted in exposures 280 times (males) and 439 times (females) the 20 mg clinical dose (based on AUC).
Overview of Clinical Trials
BRENZAVVY has been studied as monotherapy (Trial 1) and in combination with metformin in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (Trials 2, 3, and 4) [see Clinical Studies ]. BRENZAVVY has also been studied in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus with moderate renal impairment (Trial 5) [see Clinical Studies ], and in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus with established CVD or at increased risk for CVD (Trial 6) [see Clinical Studies ].
Treatment with BRENZAVVY reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) compared to placebo and efficacy was noninferior to glimepiride (up-titrated to a maximum dose of 6 mg) and sitagliptin 100 mg once daily (see Trials 3 and 4). The reduction in HbA1c by BRENZAVVY was shown across subgroups of age, sex, race, and geographic region.
Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - Monotherapy (Trial 1)
A total of 207 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled (HbA1c between 7% and 10.5%) by diet and exercise participated in a randomized, double-blind, multi-center, 24-week, placebo-controlled trial (NCT02715258; referred to as Trial 1) to evaluate the efficacy of BRENZAVVY monotherapy. Patients were either treatment naïve or had discontinued a single oral antihyperglycemic treatment ≥ 6 weeks prior to entering a 2-week, single-blind, placebo run-in period. Upon completion of the run-in period they were randomized (1:2) to placebo or BRENZAVVY 20 mg administered orally once daily. The mean age of the population was 55 years and 4% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Forty-eight percent (48%) were male and 74% were White, 10% were Asian, 15% were Black and 1% were other races. Fifty-two percent (52%) were Hispanic/Latino.
At week 24, treatment with BRENZAVVY provided a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo (see Table 5).
Table 5. Glycemic Results from a 24-Week Placebo-Controlled Monotherapy Trial of BRENZAVVY in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Trial 1)
Placebo N = 69 | BRENZAVVY N = 138 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 7.9 | 8.1 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.1 (0.1) | -0.5 (0.1) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -0.4 (-0.6, -0.1)* | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c <7% b | 20% | 31% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 170 | 169 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] c | -3 (4) | -16 (3) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -14 (-24, -3) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
* Statistically significant (multiplicity adjusted one-sided p-value < 0.025)
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 24 (9% and 7% for bexagliflozin and placebo, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, country, background anti-diabetes treatment status (treatment naïve or not) and the baseline HbA1c value as a covariate.
b Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 24 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
c Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Figure 3. Mean Change from Baseline in HbA1c (%) by Time and Treatment
Vertical lines represent 95% confidence intervals. Treatment group least squares mean changes from baseline in HbA1c were estimated by an ANCOVA model using observed data for intermediate visits. Numbers of patients per arm per measurement shown below plot. Return-to-baseline (RTB) analysis results at Week 24 are plotted to the right separately.
Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus – Combination Therapy (Trials 2, 3 and 4)
Add-on Combination Therapy with Metformin (Trial 2)
A total of 317 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled (HbA1c between 7.5% and 10.5%) by metformin monotherapy (≥ 1,000 mg/day or ≥ 1,500 mg/day for ≥ 8 weeks depending on country) participated in a randomized, double-blind, multi-center, 24-week, placebo-controlled trial (NCT03259789; referred to as Trial 2) to evaluate the efficacy of BRENZAVVY in combination with metformin. Patients entered a 1-week, single-blind, placebo run-in period, and were randomized (1:1) to placebo or BRENZAVVY 20 mg administered orally once daily in addition to the background metformin therapy. The mean age of the population was 56 years and 4% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Sixty-one percent (61%) were male and 31% were White, 50% were Asian, 17% were Black and 2% were other races. Twenty-one percent (21%) were Hispanic/Latino.
At Week 24, treatment with BRENZAVVY provided a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo (see Table 6).
Table 6. Glycemic Results From a 24-Week Placebo-Controlled Trial for BRENZAVVY used in Combination with Metformin in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Trial 2)
Placebo N = 159 | BRENZAVVY N = 158 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 8.5 | 8.6 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.5 (0.1) | -1.0 (0.1) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -0.5 (-0.7, -0.3)* | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c < 7% b | 10% | 26% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 190 | 186 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] c | -20 (3) | -42 (3) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -22 (-31, -12) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
* Statistically significant (multiplicity adjusted one-sided p-value < 0.025)
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 24 (10% and 9% for bexagliflozin and placebo, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, baseline HbA1c value and country (US or Japan).
b Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 24 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
c Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Active-Controlled Trial versus Glimepiride as Add-on Therapy with Metformin (Trial 3)
A total of 426 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled (HbA1c between 7% and 10.5%) by metformin monotherapy participated in a randomized, double-blind, multi-center, 60-week, active comparator-controlled trial (NCT02769481; referred to as Trial 3) to evaluate the efficacy of BRENZAVVY in combination with metformin. Patients receiving metformin (≥ 1,500 mg/day) as monotherapy entered a 2-week, single-blind, placebo run-in period; patients receiving metformin and another oral hypoglycemic agent enrolled if they discontinued the second agent for at least 6 weeks. Upon completion of the run-in period, they were randomized (1:1) to glimepiride or BRENZAVVY 20 mg administered orally once daily in addition to the background metformin therapy. Glimepiride therapy was initiated at 2 mg/day and titrated up to 6 mg/day or the maximum tolerated dose below 6 mg/day. Glimepiride up-titration occurred until week 6 of the 60-week treatment period. The mean daily dose of glimepiride was 5.4 mg (the maximal approved dosage in the United States is 8 mg per day). Eighty-one percent of patients in the glimepiride group were titrated up to 6 mg per day. The mean age of the population was 60 years and 5% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Fifty-eight percent (58%) were male and 94% were White, 3% were Asian, 2% were Black, and 1% were other races. Twenty-two percent (22%) were Hispanic/Latino.
Glycemic Results
BRENZAVVY was non-inferior to glimepiride in the change in HbA1c from baseline after 60 weeks of treatment (See Table 7).
Table 7. Glycemic Results from a 60-Week Active-Controlled Trial Comparing BRENZAVVY to Glimepiride as an Add-On Therapy in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Inadequately Controlled by Metformin (Trial 3)
Glimepiride N = 213 | BRENZAVVY N = 213 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 8.0 | 8.0 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.6 (0.1) | -0.7 (0.1) |
Difference from glimepiride [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -0.0 (-0.2, 0.1) b | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c < 7% c | 33% | 35% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 174 | 172 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] d | -14 (3) | -22 (2) |
Difference from glimepiride [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -8 (-15, -1) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 60 (9% and 10% for bexagliflozin and glimepiride, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, region, background treatment status (metformin-only or metformin + another oral hypoglycemic agent), eGFR at baseline (≥ 90 vs. < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2), and baseline HbA1c value. Non-inferiority is declared if the upper bound of the 95% confidence interval for the difference from glimepiride lies below 0.35.
b Non-inferior
c Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 60 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
d Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Body Weight and Systolic Blood Pressure Results
The mean baseline body weight in patients with baseline BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 was 92 kg (N = 202) and 90 kg (N = 201) in the glimepiride and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to Week 60 in this population were 0.6 kg and -3.4 kg in the glimepiride and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The difference from glimepiride (95% CI) for BRENZAVVY was -4.0 kg (-4.8, -3.2).
The mean baseline cuff systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with baseline values ≥ 140 mmHg was 149 mm Hg in the glimepiride (N = 75) and BRENZAVVY (N = 78) groups. The mean changes in cuff SBP in this population from baseline to Week 60 were -6.2 mmHg and -12.9 mmHg in the glimepiride and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The difference from glimepiride (95% CI) for BRENZAVVY was -6.8 mmHg (-10.8, -2.6).
Active-Controlled Trial versus Sitagliptin as Add-on Therapy with Metformin (Trial 4)
A total of 384 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled (HbA1c between 7% and 11%) by metformin monotherapy participated in a randomized, double-blind, multi-center, 24-week, active comparator-controlled trial (NCT03115112; referred to as Trial 4) to evaluate the efficacy of BRENZAVVY in combination with metformin. Patients receiving metformin monotherapy (≥ 1,500 mg/day for ≥ 8 weeks) entered a 1-week, single-blind, placebo run-in period and were randomized to sitagliptin 100 mg or BRENZAVVY 20 mg administered orally once daily in addition to the background metformin therapy. The mean age of the population was 59 years and 4% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Sixty-four percent (64%) were male and 82% were White, 16% were Asian, and 2% were Black. Three percent (3%) were Hispanic/Latino.
BRENZAVVY was non-inferior to sitagliptin in the change in HbA1c from baseline after 24 weeks of treatment.
Table 8. Glycemic Results from a 24-Week Active-Controlled Trial Comparing BRENZAVVY to Sitagliptin as an Add-On Therapy in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Inadequately Controlled by Metformin (Trial 4)
Sitagliptin N = 193 | BRENZAVVY N = 191 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 8.0 | 7.9 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.9 (0.1) | -0.8 (0.1) |
Difference from sitagliptin [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | 0.1 (-0.1, 0.2)b | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c < 7% c | 45% | 40% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 180 | 176 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] d | -26 (2) | -31 (2) |
Difference from sitagliptin [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -5 (-11, 1) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 24 (6% and 2% for bexagliflozin and sitagliptin, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, baseline HbA1c value and region. Non-inferiority is declared if the upper bound of the 95% confidence interval for the difference from sitagliptin lies below 0.35.
b Non-inferior
c Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 24 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
d Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Moderate Renal Impairment (Trial 5)
A total of 312 adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (HbA1c between 7.0% and 10.5%) and moderate renal impairment (eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) received BRENZAVVY or placebo in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (NCT02836873; referred to as Trial 5) to evaluate the efficacy of BRENZAVVY. In this trial, 77 BRENZAVVY-treated patients had an eGFR between 45 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 74 BRENZAVVY-treated patients had an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m2. At baseline, nearly all patients (96%) were treated with one or more antidiabetic medications including metformin (37%), insulin (58%), sulfonylureas (11%) and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors (21%). The mean age of the population was 70 years and 29% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Sixty-three percent (63%) were male and 55% were White, 38% were Asian, 5% were Black, and 2% were other races. Eight percent (8%) were Hispanic/Latino. The mean duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus was 16 years, the mean HbA1c at baseline was 8.0% and the mean eGFR was 45 mL/min/1.73 m2.
At week 24, treatment with BRENZAVVY provided a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo .
Table 9. Glycemic Results from a 24-Week Placebo-Controlled Trial that Evaluated BRENZAVVY as a Therapy Added to Standard of Care Regimens for Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (Trial 5)
Placebo N = 155 | BRENZAVVY N = 157 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 7.9 | 8.0 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.3 (0.1) | -0.6 (0.1) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -0.3 (-0.4, -0.1)* | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c < 7% b | 22% | 33% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 155 | 156 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] c | -8 (3) | -22 (3) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -14 (-23, -5) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
* Statistically significant (multiplicity adjusted one-sided p-value < 0.025)
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 24 (3% and 5% for bexagliflozin and placebo, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, region, screening anti-diabetic treatment regimen (insulin treated or other), baseline eGFR (< 45 or ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73m2) and baseline HbA1c value.
b Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 24 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
c Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Body Weight Results
The mean baseline body weight in patients with baseline BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 was 89 kg in both the placebo (N = 122) and BRENZAVVY (N = 125) groups. The mean changes from baseline to Week 24 in this population were -0.4 kg and -2.1 kg in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The difference from placebo (95% CI) for BRENZAVVY was -1.7 kg (-2.4, -1.0).
Glycemic Control and Major Cardiovascular Events (MACE) in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Increased Risk for Cardiovascular Disease (Trial 6)
The efficacy of BRENZAVVY was assessed in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (NCT02558296; referred to as Trial 6) of adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (HbA1c between 7% and 11%) who had either established CVD (including a history of atherosclerotic vascular disease or a history of heart failure) or multiple risk factors for CVD. There were no restrictions on background antihyperglycemic medication use, aside from treatment with an SGLT2 inhibitor. After a single-blind, 2-week, placebo run-in period, 1,701 patients were randomized to receive placebo (N = 567) or BRENZAVVY 20 mg (N = 1,134) orally once daily.
At baseline, nearly all patients (99.4%) were treated with one or more antidiabetic medications including metformin (77%), insulin (53%), sulfonylureas (40%), DPP-4 inhibitors (13%) and thiazolidinediones (3%). The mean age of the population was 64 years of age and 11% of the patients were older than 75 years of age. Seventy percent (70%) were male and 77% were White, 10% were Asian, 9% were American Indian or Alaskan Native, and 4% were Black. Fifteen percent (15%) were Hispanic/Latino. At baseline, the mean duration of diabetes was 15 years and the mean HbA1c was 8.3%. The mean baseline eGFR was 78 mL/min/1.73 m2; 80% of patients had an eGFR > 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 20% of patients had an eGFR 45 to 60 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Glycemic Response
Treatment with BRENZAVVY provided a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c at Week 24 compared to treatment with placebo (see Table 10). In addition, BRENZAVVY provided a statistically significant reduction in HbA1c compared to placebo in a subset of patients using background insulin (N = 902, difference from placebo -0.5% [95% CI: -0.6, -0.4]) and in a subset of patients using background sulfonylureas (N = 313, difference from placebo -0.4% [95% CI:-0.6, -0.2]).
Table 10. Glycemic Results from a 24-Week Trial in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with Established CVD or Multiple CVD Risk Factors (Trial 6)
Placebo N = 567 | BRENZAVVY N = 1133 | |
HbA1c (%) | ||
Baseline mean | 8.3 | 8.3 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] a | -0.4 (0.04) | -0.8 (0.03) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -0.4 (-0.5, -0.4)* | |
Proportion of patients (%) achieving HbA1c < 7% b | 17% | 29% |
FPG (mg/dL) | ||
Baseline mean | 162 | 166 |
Change from baseline [adjusted mean (SE)] c | -4 (2) | -23 (1) |
Difference from placebo [adjusted mean] (95% CI) | -20 (-24, -15) |
SE: Standard Error; CI: Confidence Interval; FPG: Fasting plasma glucose
* Statistically significant (multiplicity adjusted one-sided p-value < 0.025)
a Intention to treat population. ANCOVA was used to analyze data using imputed values by return to baseline analysis for missing data at week 24 (7% and 6% for bexagliflozin and placebo, respectively). The ANCOVA model included treatment, region, baseline eGFR category (< 60 or ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73m2), baseline BMI category (< 25 or ≥ 25 kg/m2), history of heart failure (yes or no), insulin use or not, and baseline HbA1c value.
b Crude proportion using imputed HbA1c values for missing data at week 24 and averaged across multiply imputed datasets
c Same model as for HbA1c endpoint but with baseline FPG instead of baseline HbA1c as a covariate.
Body Weight and Systolic Blood Pressure Results
The mean baseline body weight in a subgroup of patients with baseline BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 was 95 kg (N = 522) and 97 kg (N = 1047) in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The mean changes from baseline to Week 24 were -0.3 kg and -2.7 kg in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The difference from placebo (95% CI) for BRENZAVVY was -2.3 kg (-2.8, -1.9).
The mean baseline systolic blood pressure (SBP) in a subgroup of patients with baseline values ≥ 140 mmHg was 150 mmHg in the placebo (N = 215) and BRENZAVVY (N = 448) groups. The mean changes in SBP from baseline to Week 24 were -6.6 mmHg and -9.2 mmHg in the placebo and BRENZAVVY groups, respectively. The difference from placebo (95% CI) for BRENZAVVY was -2.7 mmHg (-5.2, -0.1).
Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) Results
Trial 6 was used to assess the impact of BRENZAVVY on MACE (a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and hospitalization for unstable angina). The minimum treatment duration was 52 weeks (median duration 2.4 years). In this trial, the proportion of patients who experienced at least one MACE event was 10.1% (57/567) in the placebo group and 7.9% (89/1132) in the BRENZAVVY group (4.2 MACE events per 100 person-years for placebo and 3.3 MACE events per 100 person-years for BRENZAVVY). No increased risk for MACE was observed in the BRENZAVVY group compared to the control group [estimated hazard ratio of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.56, 1.08)]. The BRENZAVVY group was not superior to the placebo group in reducing MACE.
BRENZAVVY 20 mg tablets are blue, caplet-shaped, biconvex, bevel-edged, film-coated debossed with “2” and inverted “2” on one side.
• Bottles of 30 tablets – NDC 82381-2174-1
• Bottles of 90 tablets – NDC 82381-2174-2
Storage and Handling
Store from 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F); excursions permitted between 15 °C to 30 °C (59 °F to 86 °F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Mechanism of Action
Bexagliflozin is an inhibitor of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2), the transporter responsible for reabsorption of the majority of glucose from the renal glomerular filtrate in the renal proximal tubule. By inhibiting SGLT2, bexagliflozin reduces renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, and thereby increases urinary glucose excretion.