SGLT2i, Pioglitazone, and Ketone Production in T2D

To examine whether the empagliflozin-induced stimulation of EGP, lipolysis, and ketone production in T2D individuals can be blocked by pioglitazone (which has direct hepatic and adipose tissue effects).

Participants: 64 T2D subjects with the same inclusion and exclusion criteria as Protocol 1. Subjects with hematuria are excluded. Study Design: Infusions of 3-3H-glucose and 14C-glycerol are started and continued to study end (2 PM). Baseline blood samples for HbA1c (x2) and for plasma insulin, glucagon, glucose, FFA, BHB, AcAc, glycerol, and plasma 3-3H-glucose and 14C-glycerol specific activities are drawn at -30, -20, -10, -5, and 0 minutes for measurement of lipolysis, ketone production (plasma ketone levels), and EGP. Empagliflozin (25 mg) is ingested at time zero (9AM) and plasma samples for the above are obtained every 10-20 minutes. Following completion of the above study, subjects will be randomized to one of four groups (16 per group) for 10 weeks: (1) empagliflozin, 25 mg/day, plus pioglitazone placebo; (2) pioglitazone, 15 mg/day, increased to 30 mg after 2 weeks plus empagliflozin placebo; (3) empagliflozin (25 mg/d) plus pioglitazone (15/30 mg/d); (4) empa placebo plus pio placebo. Subjects will return to the CRC every 1-2 weeks for interim medical history, to check medication compliance, and to measure plasma insulin, glucagon, glucose, FFA, glycerol, BHB, and AcAc levels. At week 10, subjects will return to the CRC at 6AM and the baseline study will be repeated. HbA1c will be measured twice during week 10.