The emerging role of SGLT2 inhibitors in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Focus on dapagliflozin

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes is a progressive metabolic disorder, accounting for more than 90% of all cases of diabetes. Treatment strategies target blood glucose reduction and non-glycemic effects that can reduce long-term complications, such as cardiovascular disease. Although metformin is often initially effective as monotherapy, the progressive nature of diabetes frequently requires additional therapies. Sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) became a very attractive therapeutic target in diabetes management. The mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors is not dependent on insulin, thus making them attractive options anytime over the course of the disease. Dapagliflozin is a stable and highly selective inhibitor of SGLT2. The reductions in fasting plasma glucose concentration and bodyweight recorded during the first week of treatment in the dapagliflozin groups continued over weeks and years of treatment. Early weight loss with dapagliflozin might be partly due to a mild osmotic diuresis, while the gradual progressive reduction in bodyweight is consistent with a reduction of fat mass. Although dapagliflozin is well tolerated, signs and symptoms suggestive for urinary and/or genital infections were reported during clinical trials in more patients assigned to the drug than in placebo groups.