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Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2 inhibitors) are a newer type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. These drugs help lower blood sugar levels by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, causing excess sugar to be removed from the body through urine.
However, recent studies suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may provide additional health benefits beyond controlling blood sugar.
A study from the University of Hong Kong compared SGLT2 inhibitors to another type of diabetes drug called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4 inhibitors). DPP4 inhibitors have been used for many years to help manage type 2 diabetes, but researchers wanted to see if SGLT2 inhibitors offered more protection for the kidneys and lungs.
Protecting Kidney Health
The study analyzed medical records from over 30,000 people with type 2 diabetes in Hong Kong. The results showed that those who took SGLT2 inhibitors had a lower risk of developing severe kidney diseases, including end-stage renal disease (ESRD), compared to those who took DPP4 inhibitors.
This suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors may help slow down kidney damage in people with diabetes, which is important because diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney disease. If left untreated, kidney disease can progress to a stage where dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed.
Benefits for Lung Health
Another surprising finding was that SGLT2 inhibitors were linked to a lower risk of lung diseases such as obstructive airway disease (OAD) and pneumonia. While previous research focused on the heart and kidneys, this study provides new evidence that these drugs may also help protect the lungs.
People with diabetes are more likely to develop respiratory problems, and infections like pneumonia can be especially dangerous. If SGLT2 inhibitors truly improve lung health, they could offer even more benefits for people with diabetes.
A Better Option for Diabetes Treatment?
Based on these findings, researchers suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may be a better choice for people with type 2 diabetes compared to DPP4 inhibitors. In addition to helping control blood sugar, SGLT2 inhibitors appear to offer extra protection for the kidneys and lungs.
These benefits could help prevent serious complications and improve overall health in people with diabetes.
Understanding the Risks
Like all medications, SGLT2 inhibitors have potential side effects. Some people may experience an increased risk of urinary tract infections or genital infections.
There is also a small risk of a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when the body produces too many ketones. Because of these risks, it is important for patients to talk to their doctors before starting SGLT2 inhibitors to see if they are the right choice.
Looking Ahead
This study provides strong real-world evidence that SGLT2 inhibitors can do more than just lower blood sugar. By reducing the risk of kidney and lung diseases, these drugs may offer long-term health benefits for people with diabetes. However, more research is needed to understand exactly how they provide these protections.
For those managing diabetes, staying informed about new treatment options is key. Research continues to uncover new ways to prevent complications and improve health outcomes.
This study was conducted by Dr. Cheung Ching-lung and published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism and JAMA Network Open.
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