Spherix Global Insights’ analysis of over 1,000 patient charts reveals a significant increase in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) for chronic kidney disease (CKD) treatment, nearly doubling from 2023 to 2024. This surge is attributed to the FDA’s recent label expansion of Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic® to include CKD benefits and a broader recognition among nephrologists of the drug’s effectiveness beyond glucose control. The analysis also highlights the continued dominance of SGLT2 inhibitors as a cornerstone CKD treatment and the steady, albeit limited, growth of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs).
This shift in treatment patterns has substantial implications for the CKD landscape. The increasing adoption of GLP-1 RAs, traditionally prescribed by endocrinologists and primary care physicians, signals growing confidence in their renal protective benefits and a potential paradigm shift in how nephrologists approach CKD management. The continued growth of SGLT2 inhibitors in non-diabetic CKD populations, fueled by expanded indications, intensifies competition within the market and underscores the need for ongoing education about their efficacy in slowing CKD progression. The stable, yet relatively low, utilization of MRAs, like Bayer’s Kerendia®, suggests that while their renal protective benefits are acknowledged, safety concerns and uncertainties regarding clinical efficacy remain a hurdle to widespread adoption.
Key data points include the near doubling of GLP-1 RA use between 2023 and 2024, with most new initiations projected among CKD Stage 3 patients. SGLT2 inhibitors maintain widespread use, with non-DKD utilization nearly doubling since 2021. MRA use has more than doubled among DKD patients since 2021 but has plateaued over the past year.
The evolving CKD treatment landscape, with increasing prominence of GLP-1 RAs, SGLT2 inhibitors, and MRAs, represents a transformative period in renal care. Overcoming existing challenges, such as safety concerns and knowledge gaps surrounding these therapies, will be crucial. Collaboration between physicians, payers, and pharmaceutical companies is essential to ensure CKD patients have access to the most effective treatments. The trajectory suggests a dynamic future for CKD management, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes and a more nuanced approach to renal protection.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
