The Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Cardiovascular Prevention, Glycemic Control and Weight Loss, in the Treatment of Diabetes ()
ABSTRACT
The sodium and glucose
co-transporter inhibitors type 2 (SGLT2) comprises a new class of hypoglycemic
drugs to control type 2 diabetes mellitus, in an attempt to add new
non-existing benefits to the so far arising classes. Regarding this new class
of drugs, represented by dapaglifozin, canaglifozin and empaglifozin, it is important to
highlight the benefits brought by these medications to combat hyperglycemia
with insulin-independent mechanisms that are beyond glucose reduction, such as
cardiovascular events prevention, reduction in HbA1c, weight loss and blood
pressure lowering. Recently, a relevant study (Empa-Reg) brought hope and set
the spotlight on the prevention
of cardiac events among diabetic patients, which is the main cause of mortality
within this group. However, despite coming out as a good treatment option,
SGLT2 inhibitors are under constant clinical research and, as a new drug, it
should be carefully carried out regarding the long-term effects of glycosuria
and other possible side effects, such as the observed increase in the incidence
of bladder, breast cancer and bone fractures, which require further studies.
Therefore, these compounds might represent a landmark approach for the
treatment of diabetes.
Share and Cite:
Faustino, B. , Junior, A. , Bortolon, L. , de Sá, L. , Rocha, D. and Arbex, A. (2016) The Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Cardiovascular Prevention, Glycemic Control and Weight Loss, in the Treatment of Diabetes.
Open Journal of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases,
6, 87-94. doi:
10.4236/ojemd.2016.61012.