A new study finds that adding dapagliflozin to the DPP-4 inhibitor alogliptin and the insulin sensitivity enhancer metformin, which is commonly used to treat diabetes, improves treatment outcomes.

Dapagliflozin is an oral diabetes treatment that belongs to the SGLT-2 inhibitor class.

A research team led by Professor Jeong In-kyung of the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism at Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong said Thursday that adding dapagliflozin to evogliptin and metformin has resulted in further reductions in glycated hemoglobin levels and a higher average weight loss.

The study involved 198 patients with type 2 diabetes. The patients were divided into two groups—those who received 10 mg of dapagliflozin added to their existing treatment and those who received a placebo—and researchers monitored their effects on blood glucose, weight, liver health markers, and metabolic health for 24 weeks.

The results showed that patients who added dapagliflozin had a 0.7 percent greater reduction in HbA1c levels, an average weight loss of 1.79 kg, and a reduced risk of obesity-related complications. Liver health markers and insulin resistance index also improved significantly. The incidence of adverse events was not significantly different from the placebo group, and the risk of hypoglycemia was low.

“We found that adding an SGLT-2 inhibitor called dapagliflozin to existing therapy is effective for glycemic control, weight loss, and metabolic improvement,” Professor Jeong said. “Its low side effects and ease of use make it a good option for patients.”