Empagliflozin-Associated Pancreatitis in the Setting of Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome

Acute pancreatitis is a prevalent gastrointestinal condition in the United States, with approximately 130,000 new cases annually, displaying a rising incidence. Severe cases, constituting 20% of instances, necessitate intensive care unit admission, associated with elevated mortality rates. While gallstones and chronic alcohol use are primary causes, certain medications, including ACE inhibitors, statins, hormone-replacement therapies, diuretics, hypoglycemic agents, and steroids, can induce pancreatitis. Notably, recent reports link empagliflozin, an SGLT-2 inhibitor used in managing type 2 diabetes, to pancreatitis, a rare complication in this drug class. This article details a case study of a 57-year-old African American man presenting with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome due to empagliflozin-induced pancreatitis, a novel sequela. The discussion underscores the role of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in diabetes management, emphasizing their advantages and associated complications. This report adds a unique dimension to the literature, emphasizing the importance of prompt identification and cessation of culpable agents to prevent adverse outcomes. This article aims to comprehensively address the prevalence and increasing incidence of acute pancreatitis in the United States. This report aims to assist healthcare professionals in recognizing and discontinuing causative agents, thereby providing valuable insights into the comprehension of drug-induced pancreatitis.