The aim of the trial is to evaluate the effects of the SGLT2 inhibitor, dapagliflozin, compared to metformin on annual decline in eGFR when used as first line therapy in people with Type 2 Diabetes.

This study is a randomised, double blinded clinical trial and will be undertaken in primary care and community sites across Australia and tertiary care centres in Sri Lanka. Following a 4-week active run-in period, eligible participants will be randomised to either dapagliflozin 10mg daily, or metformin XR 2000mg daily in a 1:1 ratio.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of T2D;
• Aged ≥18 years;
• Body mass index > 18.5 kg/m2;
• Drug naïve, or managed with metformin monotherapy and willing to be randomised to either dapagliflozin or metformin;
• eGFR ≥45 ml/min/1,73m2; and
• Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have an immediate need for rapid intensification of glucose lowering therapy due to marked hyperglycaemia; or
• There is a definite indication for, or contraindication to, either metformin or SGLT2 inhibitor; or
• They have clearly documented coronary artery disease (defined as a previous acute coronary syndrome, coronary stent or bypass surgery) or clearly documented heart failure (defined on the basis of a hospital admission, specialist diagnosis or an echocardiogram or other imaging modality); or
• Pregnant or breast-feeding.