There’s a new miracle drug out there that could protect both the kidney and the heart.

This medication is widely known as SGLT2 inhibitors, and it has been impressive in its ability to not only prevent cardiovascular events but also to preserve renal function.

What are SGLT2 inhibitors?

SGLT2 inhibitors are a class of medications commonly used to manage diabetes. These drugs work by blocking a protein, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2, which helps the kidneys reabsorb glucose from the urine back into the bloodstream.

When this protein is blocked, more glucose is excreted out of the body, thereby lowering blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

How do SGLT2 inhibitors work for kidney and heart protection?

The reason why researchers are excited about the potential of SGLT2 inhibitors for kidney and heart protection is because of their additional benefits beyond just lowering blood glucose in people with diabetes.

Studies have found that SGLT2 inhibitors can help reduce blood pressure and body weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and protect against cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

Moreover, these drugs have shown potent renoprotective effects.

A few randomized controlled trials have reported significantly decreased risk of kidney failure, reduced urinary albumin excretion, and a slower decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in people with type 2 diabetes who took SGLT2 inhibitors like empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and canagliflozin. A recent meta-analysis assessed the renal effects of SGLT2 inhibitors versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease and suggested that SGLT2 inhibitors reduced the risk of kidney failure by 45% compared to a placebo.

Which people can benefit from taking SGLT2 inhibitors?

Currently, SGLT2 inhibitors are approved for use in people with type 2 diabetes; however, newer studies are investigating their use in people without diabetes but with heart failure or chronic kidney disease.

For individuals with diabetes, the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes recommend considering SGLT2 inhibitors as an add-on to metformin when glycemic targets are not achieved or when there are contraindications or adverse effects to other medications.

Additionally, the American Heart Association suggests using SGLT2 inhibitors as an add-on to lifestyle modifications and other standard treatments for individuals with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease, specifically those with heart failure or prior heart attacks.

What are the Recommended Daily Dosages of SGLT2 inhibitors?

Different SGLT2 inhibitors come in various dosages. Some of these common agents and their recommended daily dosages are:.

Dapagliflozin: 10mg once daily
Canagliflozin: 100mg to 300mg once daily
Empagliflozin: 10mg to 25mg once daily
Ertugliflozin: 5mg to 15mg once daily

What are the potential side effects of SGLT2 inhibitors?

Like any medication, SGLT2 inhibitors also come with potential side effects. The most common ones include:.

Urinary tract infection
Genital yeast infection
Dehydration or orthostatic hypotension
Increased urination frequency
Low blood glucose levels when taken with other diabetes medications

It’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider to learn more about the potential risks and benefits of these drugs, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

What should you know before taking SGLT2 inhibitors?

Before starting SGLT2 inhibitors, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have any of the following conditions:.

Kidney or liver disease
Bladder infections or problems urinating
Low blood pressure or are dehydrated
Have ever had a genital or urinary infection
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while taking SGLT2 inhibitors, such as urinary problems, genital itching or discharge, dehydration, or difficulty breathing, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Final thoughts

SGLT2 inhibitors, which are commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes, are promising drugs that can help protect the kidney and heart along with their blood glucose-lowering effects in people with diabetes.

More research is needed to assess the potential benefits and risks of SGLT2 inhibitors in people who don’t have diabetes, but studies so far have shown that they may also have a role in treating heart failure and chronic kidney disease.

As always, it’s crucial to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or making changes to your treatment plan.