Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Eva Vivian1

  • 1School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin (Dr Vivian) eva.vivian@wisc.edu.

The Diabetes Educator
|October 10, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors offer effective treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). These drugs lower blood glucose, weight, and blood pressure with a low risk of hypoglycemia.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology and Metabolism
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management requires effective glucose-lowering strategies.
  • Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors represent a novel class of antidiabetic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide clinical guidance on using SGLT2 inhibitors for T2DM treatment.
  • To inform clinicians and diabetes educators about SGLT2 inhibitor therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature search of PubMed database up to February 2015.
  • Inclusion of clinical trials and meta-analyses on canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and empagliflozin.
  • Evaluation of SGLT2 inhibitors as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents or insulin.

Main Results:

  • SGLT2 inhibitors reduce hyperglycemia via insulin-independent renal glucose reabsorption inhibition.
  • Consistent reductions observed in HbA1c, fasting/postprandial glucose, body weight, and blood pressure.
  • Low risk of hypoglycemia, except when combined with sulfonylureas or insulin.

Conclusions:

  • SGLT2 inhibitors possess a unique, renal-specific mechanism of action.
  • Favorable efficacy and safety profiles support their use in T2DM management.
  • Consideration of SGLT2 inhibitors as a valuable therapeutic option for T2DM patients.

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