SGLT2 Inhibitors

Definition

SGLT2 inhibitors are a class of medications that work by blocking the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys. This action reduces the reabsorption of glucose, leading to increased excretion of glucose through the urine and lower blood glucose levels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SGLT2 inhibitors work by reducing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion (UGE) and lowering of blood glucose levels.
2. This class of medications can be used to treat type 2 diabetes, as they help improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.
3. SGLT2 inhibitors have been shown to provide additional benefits beyond glycemic control, such as weight loss, blood pressure reduction, and potential cardiovascular and renal protective effects.
4. Common side effects of SGLT2 inhibitors include genital mycotic infections, urinary tract infections, and an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
5. SGLT2 inhibitors are generally well-tolerated and have a low risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents.

Review Questions

• Explain the mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors and how they influence glucose homeostasis.
  • SGLT2 inhibitors work by blocking the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) in the proximal renal tubules. SGLT2 is responsible for the majority of glucose reabsorption from the filtered glomerular fluid back into the bloodstream. By inhibiting SGLT2, these medications reduce the reabsorption of glucose, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion (UGE) and lowering of blood glucose levels. This mechanism of action helps improve glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Discuss the additional benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors beyond their effects on glycemic control.
  • In addition to improving glycemic control, SGLT2 inhibitors have been shown to provide other potential benefits. These include promoting weight loss, as the increased urinary glucose excretion leads to caloric loss. SGLT2 inhibitors have also been associated with reductions in blood pressure, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with diabetes and hypertension. Furthermore, some SGLT2 inhibitors have demonstrated potential cardiovascular and renal protective effects, reducing the risk of certain diabetes-related complications. These additional benefits make SGLT2 inhibitors a valuable treatment option for managing type 2 diabetes.
• Evaluate the safety profile of SGLT2 inhibitors and identify potential adverse effects that healthcare providers should be aware of.
  • SGLT2 inhibitors are generally well-tolerated, but healthcare providers should be aware of potential adverse effects associated with this class of medications. Common side effects include an increased risk of genital mycotic infections and urinary tract infections, which are thought to be related to the increased urinary glucose excretion. Additionally, SGLT2 inhibitors have been associated with a rare but serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which can occur in patients with diabetes. Healthcare providers should monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of DKA, particularly during times of stress, illness, or reduced food intake. Overall, the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors in managing type 2 diabetes often outweigh the risks, but careful patient selection and monitoring are essential to ensure safe and effective use of these medications.

Related terms

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2): SGLT2 is a protein found in the proximal renal tubules that is responsible for the majority of glucose reabsorption from the filtered glomerular fluid back into the bloodstream.

Glucosuria: The presence of glucose in the urine, which occurs when the kidneys are unable to fully reabsorb the filtered glucose, leading to its excretion.

Glycemic Control: The regulation of blood glucose levels within a normal or target range, which is important for managing diabetes and preventing complications.