Semaglutid improves quality of life for patients with diabetes and kidney disease, study finds

Researchers at the 63rd ERA Congress in Glasgow presented results from the FLOW study on June 4, showing that semaglutid administered once weekly improved health-related quality of life in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

The study tracked how patients reported their own well-being and functional capacity after receiving the medication. Semaglutid belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes.

Patients receiving semaglutid reported measurable improvements across quality-of-life metrics compared with those in the control group. The medication also showed kidney-protective effects in the study population, which researchers said addressed a significant clinical need for patients managing both conditions simultaneously.

Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease frequently occur together, creating compounding health challenges. Patients with both conditions face elevated risks of cardiovascular events and kidney function decline. The FLOW trial examined whether semaglutid could slow kidney disease progression while improving patients' subjective experience of health and daily functioning.

Researchers collected data on physical function, symptom burden, and emotional well-being through standardized questionnaires administered throughout the study period. Participants receiving weekly semaglutid injections reported less fatigue, better mobility, and improved capacity to perform routine activities compared with the placebo group.

The findings come as healthcare systems worldwide seek treatments that address multiple health complications in single interventions. Semaglutid's dual benefit for metabolic control and kidney protection makes it potentially valuable for the substantial population managing both type 2 diabetes and declining kidney function.

Nephrology specialists attending the conference indicated the results could influence treatment guidelines for this patient population. The European Renal Association represents kidney specialists across the continent and uses its annual congress to present research shaping clinical practice.