Objective:
The SUSTAIN 7 trial investigated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide vs. dulaglutide in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This post hoc analysis compared the efficacy and safety profile of elderly (≥65 years old) vs. non elderly (< 65 years old) subjects.
Methods:
Elderly and non elderly subjects with T2D were randomized to once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide or dulaglutide for 40 weeks. Post baseline HbA1c and body weight (BW) data were analyzed.
Results:
This analysis comprised 1,199 subjects (260 elderly and 939 non elderly). Reductions in HbA1c and BW were similar in elderly and non elderly subjects across all treatment arms, and were greater with semaglutide than dulaglutide across subgroups.
More elderly than non elderly subjects reported adverse events (AEs) with semaglutide 1.0 mg and dulaglutide 1.5 mg. Most AEs were mild to moderate in severity. A higher proportion of elderly than non elderly subjects discontinued semaglutide 1.0 mg due to AEs.
Discussion:
Change in HbA1c and BW from baseline was similar in elderly and non elderly subjects across treatment arms, while greater reductions were observed with semaglutide vs. dulaglutide.
Conclusion:
In the SUSTAIN 7 trial, reductions in HbA1c and BW were comparable in both elderly and non elderly subjects. These improvements in glycemic control in elderly subjects were not associated with a higher incidence of hypoglycemia. The overall safety profile for semaglutide was in line with the SUSTAIN 1 – 5 trials and these results may inform treatment considerations in elderly patients with T2D.
