Expert opinion: Use of sodium glucose co-transporter type-2 inhibitors in South Asian population - The Pakistan perspective

Sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors (SGLT 2-i)are increasingly being used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). With the novel insulin-independent glycosuric action, these agents help to attain glycaemic goals by lowering HbA1c and fasting blood glucose. In addition, these agents improve metabolic control in diabetes and ameliorate comorbidities like obesity and hypertension. Beneficial effects on cardiovascular outcomes have been a key attraction for physicians. These agents are used alone or in combination with oral antidiabetic agents and insulin to attain glycaemic and metabolic targets. A major disadvantage with these agents is the increased risk for genital and urinary infections. When used in appropriate settings, there is no additional increased risk of hypoglycaemia or volume depletion with these agents. Available evidence suggests good efficacy and safety of these agents in diabetes management. The easy and convenient once-daily dosing should be customized according to patient needs and glycaemic profiles.