Comparative Impact of Empagliflozin and Semaglutide on Lipid Profile in Patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To assess and compare the impact of empagliflozin and semaglutide on lipid profile indicators among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Study design: A cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration: Ibn-e-Siena Hospital and Research Institute, Multan, from October 2025 to May 2026.

Methodology: A total of 80 patients with T2DM receiving either empagliflozin (n=40) or semaglutide (n=40) for at least six months were selected for the study through non-probability consecutive sampling. Baseline data was collected using a structured proforma. Blood samples in fasting condition were obtained for the assessment of lipid profile and glycaemic parameters in both study groups.

Results: Patients receiving semaglutide demonstrated significantly lower total cholesterol (178.6±26.9 vs. 192.4±28.7 mg/dL, p=0.030), LDL-C (104.3±20.5 vs. 118.5±22.1 mg/dL, p=0.004), triglycerides (165.2±31.8 vs. 186.7±34.5 mg/dL, p=0.005), and VLDL-C levels (33.1±6.3 vs. 37.3±6.9 mg/dL, p=0.006) in contrast to empagliflozin group. HDL-C levels were significantly higher among semaglutide users (46.8±8.1 vs. 41.2±7.6 mg/dL, p=0.002). Furthermore, semaglutide-treated patients exhibited lower HbA1c (7.4±0.9% vs. 7.9±1.0%, p=0.021) and fasting blood glucose levels (142.3±25.7 vs. 156.8±28.4 mg/dL, p=0.017).

Conclusion: Semaglutide was associated with a more favorable lipid profile and better glycaemic control compared with empagliflozin among T2DM diagnosed patients. These findings support role of semaglutide in providing additional cardiometabolic benefits in diabetic patients with concomitant dyslipidaemia.