Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a newer type of medication used to help manage diabetes. While these drugs are effective for controlling blood sugar, a recent study by the FDA has uncovered a serious, rare side effect associated with their use.
Researchers found that SGLT2 inhibitors could increase the risk of a dangerous infection called Fournier gangrene, which affects areas like the genitalia, perineum, and perianal region.
Fournier gangrene is a severe, life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
In their study, the researchers analyzed data from diabetic patients using SGLT2 inhibitors and compared it to those taking other common diabetes medications, including metformin, insulin, and other combination drugs.
The findings revealed 55 cases of Fournier gangrene in people using SGLT2 inhibitors between March 2013 and January 2019. These patients ranged in age from 33 to 87, with 39 men and 16 women affected.
The time between starting the medication and developing the infection varied widely, from just 5 days to as long as 49 months. In addition to the infection, many of these patients experienced other diabetes-related complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, sepsis, and kidney injury.
In contrast, only 19 cases of Fournier gangrene were reported in patients using other diabetes medications over a much longer period, from 1984 to January 2019.
This significant difference highlights that Fournier gangrene is a newly recognized risk specifically associated with SGLT2 inhibitors.
The researchers urge doctors prescribing SGLT2 inhibitors to be aware of this potential complication. Early detection is crucial to prevent the infection from becoming severe.
Patients using these drugs should monitor for symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, or unusual discharge in the affected areas and report them to their healthcare provider immediately.
While this risk is concerning, it’s important to remember that SGLT2 inhibitors are generally safe and effective for most patients when used as directed. The study emphasizes the need for balanced decision-making between managing blood sugar and monitoring for rare side effects.
For those managing diabetes, adopting a healthy lifestyle alongside medication is key. Studies have shown that a Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of diabetes by 30%, and other factors like adequate vitamin intake may also help.
Staying informed about both the benefits and potential risks of diabetes medications is essential for effective treatment.
This study, led by Susan J. Bersoff-Matcha, was published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. It highlights the importance of vigilance in identifying and managing rare complications to ensure the safe use of new medications.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies that MIND diet may reduce risk of vision loss disease, and Vitamin D could benefit people with diabetic neuropathic pain.
For more information about diabetes, please see recent studies that Vitamin E could help reduce blood sugar and insulin resistance in diabetes, and results showing eating eggs in a healthy diet may reduce risks of diabetes, high blood pressure.
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