sgt2 inhibitors

SGLT2 Inhibitors

SGLT2 inhibitors, or Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter-2 inhibitors, are a class of medications that inhibit the reabsorption of glucose in the kidney and therefore lower blood sugar levels. They are used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Category

Antidiabetic medication

Molecular Formula

Varies depending on the specific SGLT2 inhibitor

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) in the proximal renal tubules to reduce reabsorption of glucose from the tubular lumen which results in increased glucose excretion and reduced blood glucose levels.

Evidence Grade

A

Other Names

• Gliflozins
• Dapagliflozin
• Canagliflozin
• Empagliflozin

Primary Benefits

• Lowers blood glucose levels
• Promotes modest weight loss
• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduces risk of hospitalization for heart failure in patients with type 2 diabetes

Recommended Dosage

Side Effects

• Urinary tract infections
• Yeast infections
• Increased urination
• Hypoglycemia when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
• Dehydration and hypotension

Precautions

• Not recommended for patients with severe kidney disease
• Should be used cautiously in elderly patients
• Discontinue prior to surgery

Interactions

• Diuretics
• Insulin or other antidiabetic drugs
• NSAIDs

Key References

• Zinman B, Wanner C, Lachin JM, et al. Empagliflozin, Cardiovascular Outcomes, and Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2015;373(22):2117–2128.
• Neal B, Perkovic V, Mahaffey KW, et al. Canagliflozin and Cardiovascular and Renal Events in Type 2 Diabetes. N Engl J Med. 2017;377(7):644–657.