SGLT2 inhibitors: What They Do, Medicines
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം
SGLT2 inhibitors, also called gliflozins, are tablets that lower blood sugar by making the kidneys pass extra sugar in the urine. Examples sold in India include dapagliflozin. Some are also used in heart failure and chronic kidney disease, and all are prescription medicines.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do SGLT2 inhibitors work?
They block a protein in the kidneys (SGLT2) that takes sugar back into the blood, so extra sugar leaves in the urine. They also reduce the fluid and pressure load on the heart and kidneys.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to SGLT2 inhibitors. They are listed A to Z.
- Dapagliflozin: Dapagliflozin is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and, in some adults, long-term heart failure or chronic kidney disease.
Common questions
What are the main safety warnings for SGLT2 inhibitors?
Genital thrush and urinary infections are common. Rare but serious problems are diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe genital infection (Fournier's gangrene) and dehydration. Get emergency help for vomiting with stomach pain and fast breathing, or severe genital pain with fever.
What should I do on a sick day when I take an SGLT2 inhibitor?
Vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or not eating can cause dehydration and ketoacidosis. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice about your diabetes medicines on those days. Do not stop or change anything on your own unless you have been told how.
Sources
- Dapagliflozin: a medicine for type 2 diabetes, heart failure and chronic kidney disease. NHS (UK)
- Forxiga (dapagliflozin): EPAR medicine overview. European Medicines Agency
- Farxiga (dapagliflozin): prescribing information, openFDA record. openFDA, US Food and Drug Administration
- Type 2 diabetes: treatment. NHS (UK)
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission