Diabetes is one of the four major types of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) that make the largest contribution to morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in Bangladesh in both urban and rural areas. In 2021, the International Diabetes Federation estimated 13.1 million people were living with diabetes in Bangladesh and projected to be almost doubled by 2025.
While managing diabetes, one of the prime concerns of healthcare professionals remains as how to reduce HbA1c efficiently without triggering any other comorbidities – such as ASCVD (Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease), HF (Heart Failure), and CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease). SGLT2 (Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2) Inhibitors, in that context, plays a pivotal role in the diabetes treatment regime as this emerging therapy is versatile and caters to the need of the patients.
Over the past 63 years, the doctor community has trusted Sanofi Bangladesh. Hence, when Sanofi Bangladesh started its journey as Synovia Pharma from 01 April 2022, the promise was to bring breakthrough new and innovative solutions to cater to the unmet needs of Bangladeshi patients.
Living by that promise, Synovia Pharma brings in the latest SGLT2 inhibitor ERTU (Ertugliflozin) to achieve more efficient glycemic control in Type 2 diabetic patients.
Eminent physician Professor A K Azad Khan, National Professor and President of the Diabetes Association of Bangladesh graced the launching event of ERTU as the Chief Guest. Professor Md Faruque Pathan, Professor of Endocrinology, BIRDEM General Hospital chaired the program where Professor S M Ashrafuzzaman – Professor and President of Bangladesh Endocrine Society was present as the Special Guest.
In the scientific part of the program, Prof. Indrajit Prasad – Professor and Head of Endocrinology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital presented on ‘Diabetes Management Focusing on CVD Outcome’ and Prof. Shamim Ahmed – Professor, National Institute of Kidney Diseases & Urology (NIKDU) presented on ‘Diabetes Management Focusing on Renal Protection’. Professor Md. Nazrul Islam – Professor and Chairman, Dept of Nephrology, BSMMU (Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital), Professor Mir Jamal Uddin – Professor and Director of NICVD (National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases), Professor Md. Hafizur Rahman – Professor, United Hospital, Professor Feroz Amin – Professor and Head of Endocrinology, BIRDEM (Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolic Disorders), Dr. Shahjada Selim – Associate Professor, BSMMU and Faria Afsana – Associate Professor, BIRDEM presented their expert opinion as the Panel of Experts. The panel elaborately discussed the diabetes scenario of the country and elaborated on the importance of medicines in managing diabetes-associated comorbidities.
In his speech, the special guest of the event Professor S M Ashrafuzzaman said, “As per VERTIS-CV trial of SGLT2 inhibitor evaluated medication’s cardiovascular safety in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor ertugliflozin does not impact the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, or cardiac death in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and established cardiovascular (CV) disease.”
“Research also showed the rate of hospitalization for heart failure was lower among study participants treated with ertugliflozin. The study was highlighted during the ‘Results of the evaluation of ERTugliflozin Efficacy and Safety CardioVascular Outcomes Trial (VERTIS-CV)’ symposium at the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA’s) 80th Virtual Scientific Sessions”, said the chairperson of the event Professor Md Faruque Pathan.
The Chief guest of the event eminent physician and academic National Professor A K Azad Khan said, “Diabetes has become an epidemic in the world. Moreover, once someone is diagnosed with this disease, it remains for life. However, if kept under complete control this disease can’t harm much and one can live a healthy, normal, and active life by avoiding all kinds of physical complications. There have been many scientific advances in the treatment of diabetes in recent times. In this regard, SGLT2 inhibitor group of drugs are worth mentioning. Acme Synovia Pharma PLC for making this group of drugs (Ertugliflozin) readily available in Bangladesh. With this drug, patients with diabetes can live a better life.”
The welcome address of the event was presented by A K M Rafique, General Manager, Sales, Synovia Pharma, and a vote of thanks was presented by Syed A B Tahmeed, Director of Marketing, of Synovia Pharma.
