Overview

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 certain chronic conditions, they can help lower the risk of:

• Heart attack and stroke.
• Dying from heart disease.

If you have kidney disease, they may help keep it from getting worse. If you have heart failure, they can make you less likely to go to the hospital.

Examples

Here are some examples of SGLT2 inhibitors. For each item in the list, the generic name is first. This is followed by brand names.

• canagliflozin (Invokana)
• dapagliflozin (Forxiga)
• empagliflozin (Jardiance)

Possible side effects

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Common side effects of these medicines include:

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

What to know about taking this medicine

Some cautions are:

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.
• 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 a urinary tract infection.
• Check with your doctor or pharmacist before you use any other medicines. This includes ones you buy over the counter. Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines and natural health products you take. Taking some medicines together can cause problems.