Nursing group releases SGLT2 guidance
A guide offering advice on appropriate use of SGLT2 treatment in type 2 diabetes has been published by diabetes nursing group TREND-UK.
The booklet ‘Appropriate use of SGLT2 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes: right person, right medication, right time’ describes best practice when considering the use of this class of medication.
It covers how the medication works as well as diabetic ketoacidosis and risk of lower limb amputation.
The booklet says: “Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are the latest class of blood glucose-lowering agents available for people with type 2 diabetes. They are taken once-daily and have the added benefits of enabling weight loss and reducing blood pressure as well as reducing HbA1c.
“They have a low risk of hypoglycaemia, and cardiovascular outcome trials for two of the agents demonstrate a reduced risk in cardiovascular events. Excess weight and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease are key features in type 2 diabetes, SGLT2 inhibitors can therefore be a useful treatment for many with this condition. However, like all medications, there are certain groups of people in whom the risks of taking an SGLT2 inhibitor may outweigh the benefits.”
To access the leaflet, you need to log into the TREND-UK website.