SGLT2 Inhibitors May Have an Increased Risk of Acute Renal Failure

---

SGLT2 Inhibitors: A New Side Effect

In previous articles, I have discussed SGLT2 inhibitor diabetes drugs such as Invokana, Farxiga, and Jardiance and the adverse events associated with them.  Such side effects include diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and lower-limb amputations.

A recent study identified a new possible side effect of these drugs through an analysis of the FDA Adverse Event Report System database (FAERS).  The researchers found that SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with an increased risk of acute renal failure.

Acute Renal Failure: The Statistics

According to the study, out of the 1,224 reported cases of acute renal failure that involved SGLT2 inhibitors, the drugs were defined as the “primary” or “secondary” causes of acute renal failure in 96.8% of the cases.

Furthermore, the number of acute renal failure reports for these drugs was significantly greater than those involving patients with Type 2 diabetes who were not treated with SGLT2 inhibitors.

Interpreting Results

Researcher Amichai Perlman, PharmD provides her input on the study’s findings:

Our results should be interpreted with caution as this is an observational study with limited control of potential confounding factors…However, we believe that clinicians should consider simple measures to minimize this potential risk, including instructing patients to keep hydrated and avoid volume depletion; consider closer monitoring of kidney function in patients with concomitant ACE inhibitors and diuretics, especially in patients with impaired baseline renal function; and avoiding administration of SGLT2 inhibitors with nephrotoxic agents, such as NSAIDs, as well as to consider temporary withholding of SGLT2 inhibitors prior to radio-contrast studies.

We are currently investigating possible drug injury lawsuits concerning Type 2 diabetes patients who have been diagnosed with acute renal failure, DKA, or lower-limb amputations as a result of their use of SGLT2 inhibitors such as Invokana, Farxiga, or Jardiance.

For more information, please visit our website and complete a free case evaluation.