Learning About SGLT2 Inhibitors

Overview

Sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors help remove extra glucose (sugar) through the urine. They also lower blood pressure. And they can help people lose weight. They are used to treat conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and heart failure. Often they are helpful when you have more than one of these problems.

In people who have heart disease, they can help lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

If you have heart failure, they can lower the risk of serious problems that would need to be treated in the hospital.

If you have kidney disease, they may help prevent or slow kidney damage.

Examples

For each medicine in the list, the generic name is first. This is followed by a brand name.

• Canagliflozin (Invokana)
• Dapagliflozin (Farxiga)
• Empagliflozin (Jardiance)
• Ertugliflozin (Steglatro)

This is not a complete list of SGLT2 medicines.

Possible side effects

All medicines can cause side effects.

Side effects of SGLT2 inhibitors include:

• A genital yeast infection or urinary tract infection.
• A stuffy or runny nose and sore throat.
• Nausea and increased thirst.
• Low blood sugar.
• Low blood pressure. You may feel dizzy.
• Having to urinate a lot.

You may have other side effects or reactions not listed here. Check the information that comes with your medicine or ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take.

What to know about taking this medicine

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine or if you missed a dose of a medicine.
• Drink plenty of fluids. If you have kidney, heart, or liver disease and have to limit fluids, talk with your doctor before you increase the amount of fluids you drink.
• Tell your doctor right away if you can't drink or eat or you are vomiting or have diarrhea.
• Talk with your doctor if you have symptoms of a genital yeast infection or symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
• Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Taking some medicines together can cause problems. Tell your doctor or pharmacist all the medicines you take. This includes other prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.
• You may need regular blood and urine tests to see if the medicines are causing any problems.