Empagliflozin Promotes Natriuresis in Diabetic Patients with Cirrhotic Refractory Ascites: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

In 30 seconds

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of empagliflozin on natriuresis in 21 diabetic patients with decompensated cirrhosis and refractory ascites. The study found that empagliflozin increased fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) by +0.44 percentage points compared to standard care alone (p=0.029), indicating enhanced sodium handling.

Key findings

• Empagliflozin increased 24-hour urinary sodium excretion by +92.1 mmol/24 h compared to control.
• The 24-hour urine volume increased by +822 mL/24 h in the empagliflozin group.
• Mean daily paracentesis volume was reduced by 0.70 L/day with empagliflozin compared to control.

Why it matters

This study highlights the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors like empagliflozin to improve sodium handling in patients with refractory ascites, a condition often challenging to manage. Understanding these effects may guide future treatment strategies.