SGLT2 Inhibitors
What is SGLT2 inhibitors?
Sodium-Glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors is a class of diabetes medications that comes as a pill. They include: canagliflozin (brand name: Invokana), empagliflozin (brand name: Jardiance), dapagliflozin (brand name: Farxiga), and ertugliflozin (brand name: Steglatro). Since type 2 diabetes is typically a progression of worsening insulin resistance, this type of medicine can also be used to treat insulin resistance. This group of medications stops the kidneys from taking glucose back into the blood and the excess glucose is released into the urine. These medicines can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications.
Besides treating insulin resistance / diabetes what other benefit is there of SGLT2 inhibitors?
SGLT2 inhibitors may be a good choice for people with heart failure or chronic kidney disease because they have been shown to have some cardiovascular, renal, and mortality benefits. SGLT2 inhibitors do not cause low blood sugar. They promote modest weight loss and blood pressure reduction.
What side effects can SGLT2 inhibitors cause?
Side effects include genital yeast infections in men and women, urinary tract infections, and dehydration.
What other precautions should I take when using SGLT2 inhibitors?
Some medicines in this class have been associated with an increased risk of bone fracture or amputation. An uncommon but deadly infection of the tissue in the perineum (the area between the genitals and the anus) has also been reported. SGLT2 inhibitors can increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA); this is a serious problem that can happen when acids called "ketones" build up in the blood. DKA can happen even when blood sugar is only mildly elevated. Blood ketones should be checked if symptoms of nausea and/or vomiting develop while taking SGLT2 inhibitors.
Are these medications expensive?
These medications are generally expensive, but it is usually covered by your insurance. Most SGLT2 inhibitors also have saving coupons available. Please visit their website for further information.
For complete patient information on SGLT2 inhibitors, please visit the website below:
https://medlineplus.gov/druginformation.html
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