The Role of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGTL2) inhibitors are a novel class of antihyperglycemic agents that work in an insulin-independent manner by promoting urinary glucose excretion. In addition to efficacious glucose lowering, they exert beneficial effects on blood pressure and weight while avoiding hypoglycemia unless combined with insulin or insulin secretagogues. This review explores the mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors, their effects on glycated hemoglobin, weight, blood pressure and hypoglycemia, potential adverse effects, renal considerations and cardiovascular outcomes.