What Are SGLT2 Inhibitors and How Will They Help My Type 2 Diabetes?

If you have diabetes, the amount of sugar in your blood is likely too high. You may need to take one or more kinds of medicine to help lower it. This is very common and can help you live a healthier, longer life.

How This Medicine Can Help

Researchers are always working on different types of medicine to help treat diabetes. One newer type of medicine, called an SGLT2 Inhibitor, helps your body get rid of extra sugar through your urine. This results in less sugar in your blood.

These medicines include Invokana®, Farxiga®, and Jardiance®. These kinds of medicine may also help you lose weight and have lower blood pressure. This isn’t why they’re prescribed, but these effects may help you be healthier.

Possible Side Effects

One of the most common side effects of these medicines is a greater chance of having a yeast infection. These are caused by a fungus, and they can cause your vagina or penis to itch and feel sore. They can happen when you have too much sugar in your body. Another common side effect is urinary tract infections.  You may also be more likely to become dehydrated. This is especially true if you take another type of medicine that makes you urinate more often.

Some other side effects may include low blood sugar, especially if taken with other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar.

Your doctor will talk with you about your risk of side effects. He or she will look at your situation to decide if these medicines are likely to help you without causing harm. You can help by telling your doctor about your health and any medicines you take.

How to Take Them

You’ll need to take these medicines once a day by mouth. You can take them with or without food. Each kind comes in two different strengths. Your doctor may start you out at the lower dose and increase it if needed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, wait and take it at your next regular time. Don’t take two doses at once.

Living a Healthier Life

These medicines may be able to help you control your diabetes. Make sure to follow your doctor’s plan for treating your diabetes. He or she may want you to get more exercise and change your diet. These steps, combined with the right type of medicine, can help you lead a longer, healthier life.

 

Farxiga is a trademark of AstraZeneca, Invokana is a trademark of Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Jardiance is a trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.