Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Therapy In Steroid-Induced Diabetes

Glucocorticoids are commonly used in the treatment of autoimmune, inflammatory, and neoplastic diseases. Despite their therapeutic efficacy, they are associated with significant metabolic side effects. Their strongly diabetogenic effect results from the enhanced activity of hyperglycemic hormones, increased insulin resistance, and impaired function of pancreatic β-cells. Current clinical guidelines classify SID as a form of drug-induced diabetes, with insulin therapy as the primary treatment. However, recent studies highlight the role of glucocorticoids in exacerbating insulin resistance, inhibiting incretin effects, and promoting weight gain-factors that suggest a potential therapeutic role for GLP-1 receptor agonists. It is estimated that approximately 100 patients will be needed to achieve statistically significant results. Participants will be stratified based on the type of diabetes (type 2 diabetes vs. steroid-induced diabetes), followed by alternate randomisation into one of two therapeutic groups:

Group 1: Patients receiving insulin therapy Group 2: Patients receiving an FRC therapy (insulin glargine and lixisenatide) A clinical research team will perform body composition analysis using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) with a Tanita scale. To assess baseline metabolic control, blood samples will be taken. All study participants will be equipped with a CGM sensor integrated with the hospital clinic system, allowing the study team access to the patients' glycemic data.

Participants assigned to Group 1 will receive standard insulin therapy. Those in Group 2 will be treated with a combination of insulin glargine and lixisenatide, with dosages individually adjusted based on current glucose levels. All participants will be trained in insulin administration and dose adjustment based on glucose readings. After hospital discharge, patients will continue to be monitored by the study team using data from the CGM system. The researcher will frequently assess the Glucose Management Indicator (GMI), Time in Range (TIR), daily insulin requirements, and frequency of hypoglycemic episodes.

Follow-up phone calls will be attempted every 2 months. If two consecutive contact attempts are unsuccessful, the study will continue based solely on CGM data. A final follow-up visit will take place after 6 months. During this visit, body composition will be reassessed, and the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ) will be administered to evaluate patient-reported quality of life.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults (≥18 years of age)
• Patients with type 2 diabetes and SIH, or diagnosed with SID requiring insulin
• Patients undergoing long-term oral GC therapy for the following indications:
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Asthma
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Polymyalgia rheumatica
• Synovitis associated with osteoarthritis
• Sarcoidosis
• Tubulointerstitial nephritis
• Atopic dermatitis
• Pemphigus
• Informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• - Age <18 years
• Type 1 diabetes
• Critically ill patients in a life-threatening condition requiring intensive care and medical support to sustain vital functions, as defined by an Allgöwer index >1.0
• eGFR <30 mL/min
• History of acute pancreatitis or gallstone disease
• Lack of consent