Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and Ketoacidosis – Clinical Implications in the Treatment of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

The use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. This risk has been reported in particular in off-label use of these agents in type 1 diabetes, but reports of risks in type 2 diabetes patients also exist. In type 2 diabetes ketoacidosis is rare and is present particularly in patients who have undergone prolonged starvation, serious infection, alcohol abuse or surgery. The pleiotropic advantages of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors do not outweigh the risk for a diabetic ketoacidosis, but caution is warranted.