Glucose-Lowering and Metabolic Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors

Heart Fail Clin. 2022 Oct;18(4):529-538. doi: 10.1016/j.hfc.2022.03.004.

Abstract

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have consistently demonstrated improved outcomes in patients with heart failure with or without type 2 diabetes; however, the mechanisms contributing to these benefits remain poorly understood. Although SGLT2 inhibitors do have glucose-lowering effects, it is unlikely that their cardiovascular benefits are solely due to improved glycemic control. This improved glycemia leads to consequent metabolic effects that could provide further explanation for their action. This review discusses the glucose-lowering and metabolic effects of SGLT2 inhibitors and how these might lead to improved cardiovascular outcomes in patients with heart failure.

Keywords: Cardiometabolic; Glycemia; Heart failure; SGLT2 inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / drug therapy
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / metabolism
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / complications
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / drug therapy
  • Heart Failure* / drug therapy
  • Heart Failure* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 / metabolism
  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors* / pharmacology
  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2
  • Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 Inhibitors