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Important safety information for patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors
SGLT2 inhibitors are medicines used to treat type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and heart failure. Common examples include dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, canagliflozin and ertugliflozin.
These medicines help lower blood glucose levels and have additional benefits for heart and kidney health. It is important, that while you are taking this medication, you drink plenty of fluids.
Rare but serious side effects
Although uncommon, these medicines have been linked to rare but serious side effects. It is important to be aware of these so you can act quickly if symptoms occur.
1. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious condition which can sometimes occur even when blood sugar levels are very low.
Symptoms may include:
- Feeling very thirsty
- Frequent urination
- Breath that smells fruity or sweet
- Feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)
- Stomach or abdominal pain
- Fast or deep breathing
- Feeling very tired, drowsy, or confused
2. Severe genital infection (Fournier's Gangrene)
This is a rare but serious infection affecting the genital or groin area.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling around the genitals or groin
- Fever or feeling generally unwell
- Discharge or changes to the skin in this area
What should I do if I notice symptoms?
- Stop taking your SGLT2 inhibitor (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin, canagliflozin or ertugliflozin) immediately.
- Seek medical advice: Call practice from 8:30am. If we are closed, please call 111. If very unwell and severe, call 999.
- Tell the healthcare professional that you are taking or have been taking an SGLT2 inhibitor
When should I be extra careful?
You may be at higher risk if you are unwell with vomiting, diarrhoea or fever, not eating or drinking normally, dehydrated, or preparing for surgery or hospital admission.
You may be advised to temporarily stop this medicine during illness until you can re-start eating and drinking normally for 24 to 48 hours. This is known as the sick day rules.
Do not stop your medication without advice unless you have symptoms
If you do not have symptoms, continue taking your medication as prescribed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the practice.
National Support
NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme
Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme is part of the national programme which is expected to provide support to 100,000 individuals each year.Those referred to the service will receive tailored, personalised support to reduce their risk of Type 2 diabetes including education on healthy eating and lifestyle, help to lose weight and physical exercise programmes, all of which together have been proven to reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Better Living
Find practical help with managing Type 2 diabetes through this informative toolkit.
Diabetes UK
Contact support families with the best possible guidance and information. For every shape and size of family, whatever they need and whatever their child’s disability.