In a nutshell
This study investigated the link between sodium/glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). They found an increased number of cases of DKA in people treated with SGLT2 inhibitors.
Some background
SGLT2 is a protein in the kidneys that is important in controlling blood glucose levels. It allows glucose to re-enter the blood from the kidneys. SGLT2 inhibitors are a type of theray that prevent this. SGLT2 inhibitors can be used in the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Because they are widely used it is important to monitor their side effects.
Recently, a link between SGLT2 inhibitors and DKA has been suggested. DKA is a condition that occurs when the cells of the body do not get enough glucose for energy, and the body begins to burn fat. This can lead to a high level of acids in the blood. DKA is more common in type 1 diabetes, and rare in type 2 diabetes.
Methods & findings
The researchers examined reports of DKA made to the FDA between 2014 and 2016. They found 2397 reports of DKA where the patient had been treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor. They found 1930 reports of DKA where the patient had not been treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor.
Patients who experienced DKA were more likely to have been treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor than another drug. More women reported DKA than men. The rate of DKA was higher in people with type 1 diabetes than type 2 diabetes. Age and body weight did not appear to affect the rate of DKA.
The bottom line
The study concluded that DKA was more common in people treated with SGLT2 inhibitors than in people treated with other therapies.
The fine print
These reports show only an association between SGLT2 inhibitors and DKA. They do not prove that SGLT2 inhibitors cause DKA. Furthermore, reports can be made to the FDA by consumers without confirmation from a healthcare professional. The authors of this study also had connections to manufacturers of SGLT2 inhibitors.
What’s next?
Discuss DKA and other potential side effects of SGLT2 inhibitors with your physician.
Published By :
Diabetologia
Date :
May 12, 2017
