Beware Ketoacidosis with SGLT2 Inhibitors in Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of the Adult

Abstract

Background: Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are increasingly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but have been associated with ketoacidosis.

Methods/results: We report a case series of three patients with latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult who presented with ketoacidosis, including one case with normal blood glucose levels, in the context of SGLT2 inhibitor use.

Conclusions: Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors should be used with caution and close clinical monitoring in patients with latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult. A clinical risk score permits targeted autoantibody testing and should be undertaken prior to commencement of SGLT2 inhibitors or cessation of insulin.

Keywords: SGLT2 inhibitor; diabetes; diabetic ketoacidosis; latent autoimmune diabetes of the adult.