In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on urinary tract infections (UTIs) and genital infections in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). It was determined that SGLT2 inhibitors increase the risk of genital infections, but not UTIs.
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, such as dapagliflozin (Farxiga) or empagliflozin (Jardiance), are a type of treatment that prevents this.
Previous research has suggested a link between SGLT2 inhibitors and UTIs and genital infections. However, the findings have been uncertain.
Methods & findings
77 studies were examined. Overall, 50, 820 adults with T2D participated. The participants were divided into groups that received an SGLT2 inhibitor, and groups that did not. Groups that did not receive an SGLT2 inhibitor received a placebo (drug with no active effect), a different anti-diabetes drug, or underwent lifestyle changes. Participants were investigated for 12 weeks or more. UTIs or genital infections occurring in participants were investigated.
Significant differences were not found in the rate of UTIs in participants who received any SGLT2 inhibitor and those who did not. However, those who took the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin were 34% more likely to report a UTI than those who did not receive an SGLT2 inhibitor.
Participants who took an SGLT2 inhibitor were 3.3 times more likely to report a genital infection than those who did not take an SGLT2 inhibitor. Capagliflozin (Invokana) was most likely to increase the risk of genital infection, followed by dapagliflozin, then empagliflozin. The increased likelihood of experiencing a genital infection was greater the longer the participants were being treated with SGLT2 inhibitors.
The bottom line
The study concluded that SGLT2 inhibitors increased the risk of genital infections. They did not find an increased risk of UTIs (except for dapagliflozin) but stated that further research would be needed to confirm this.
The fine print
Manufacturers of SGLT2 inhibitors funded the studies examined. Furthermore, differences between the 77 studies made comparisons difficult.
What’s next?
Discuss the safety of SGLT2 inhibitors with your physician.
Published By :
Scientific reports
Date :
Jun 06, 2017
