EMMY trial: What we know and what we need to know

Abstract

SGLT-2 inhibitors are a class of antidiabetic drugs with additional cardiovascular benefits. Though initially developed for glycemic control, subsequent studies in the heart failure (HF) population also demonstrated positive outcomes. Currently, they are approved for use in HF with both reduced and preserved ejection fraction. More recently, encouraging data have emerged on acute HF. Following an episode of acute myocardial infarction, patients are also at high risk for developing HF and experiencing recurrent events despite optimal therapy. The PARADISE MI study failed to demonstrate any benefits of ARNI in this scenario. The EMMY trial explored the role of SGLT-2i in >450 odds patients with acute MI. At 26 weeks SGLT-2i (empagliflozin) use led to a higher fall in NT-pro-BNP levels compared to standard treatment. There was additional improvement in left ventricular echocardiographic parameters with empagliflozin too. However, it was a small trial, had a short follow-up and there were no clinical endpoints. But none the least, it attested to the safety of SGLT-2i in the post-MI scenario. Because the primary care physician frequently encounters patients in the post-MI scenario, the manuscript provides insights into their practice. Based on contemporary evidence, the universal use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients following acute MI is not warranted. A further role of these drugs in post-MI HF will be clarified in ongoing trials.

Keywords

• empagliflozin
• heart failure
• left ventricular ejection fraction
• nt pro-bnp