SGLT inhibitors

(canagliflozin, empagliflozin, DAPAgliflozin 10mg)

Jardiance (empagliflozin) is a sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, that can be given orally.

SGLT2 is a low-affinity, high-capacity transport protein that is responsible for reabsorbing 90% of filtered glucose in the proximal tubule. Blocking SGLT2 leads to significant urinary glucose loss.

used as 2nd or 3rd line agent, alternative to insulin

Reduced cardiac mortality by 35% by unknown mechanism

S.E -

may lead to UTI and genital mycotic infections, due to gluosuria.

Symptomatic Hypotension (2° osmotic diuresis)

Dehydration, hypokalemia

CI -

moderate-to-severe renal impairment due to lack of efficacy and increased risk of adverse effects.

Thus, Renal function assessment is essential before initiating SGLT2 inhibitor therapy and periodically thereafter.