Empagliflozin Trial Shows Unexpected Kidney Volume Growth
A clinical trial finds increased kidney volume in patients with polycystic kidney disease taking empagliflozin.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Diabetes
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A 12-month clinical trial testing empagliflozin in patients with rapidly progressing autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease has concluded. The study revealed an unexpected increase in kidney volume among participants taking the drug compared to those on a placebo.
Why it matters
Researchers launched the study to address the significant lack of SGLT2 inhibitor trial data for patients living with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Understanding how these medications affect kidney progression is critical for evaluating future treatment options.
The 12-month trial enrolled 50 adults with a baseline eGFR of 30 to 90 mL/min/1.73 m², with 96% of participants tolerating the full 25 mg daily dose. Results showed a 10.5% increase in height-adjusted total kidney volume for the treatment group versus 5.1% for placebo.
The details
Investigators randomly assigned participants aged 18 to 55 with Mayo imaging classifications 1C through 1E to receive either a daily dose of empagliflozin or a placebo. While the drug was well tolerated, the empagliflozin group also experienced an acute eGFR dip of 6.2 mL/min/1.73 m² after the first month of treatment.
Timeline
The clinical trial duration spanned 12 months.
Results for a separate German trial of 44 patients are expected in March 2027.
Health Landscape
This study marks a significant update within the broader ongoing evaluation of SGLT2 inhibitor clinical applications. It highlights how targeted pharmacological interventions can produce unexpected physiological results in specialized patient populations.
Patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease should consult their nephrologist regarding the potential risks and efficacy of specific SGLT2 inhibitors. Clinical findings from trials like this are essential for helping doctors determine which medications are appropriate for individual care plans.
The takeaway
This trial underscores the importance of rigorous clinical testing when repurposing existing medications for new disease applications. Ongoing research remains vital to clarify how specific drug interventions influence long-term organ health.
What happens next
A German trial involving 44 patients is scheduled to report its findings in March 2027, and a larger French study of over 400 patients is currently in the planning stages.
Further reading
For more information on current treatment trends, see our Diabetes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hcplive.
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