Hot Topics in Primary Care: Role of the Kidney and SGLT-2 Inhibition in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

SGLT-2 inhibitors provide a complementary mechanism of glucose lowering and can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other medications, including insulin. In addition to improved glycemic control, which generally is maintained over 2 years, SGLT-2 inhibitors provide reductions in body weight and systolic blood pressure. Increases in LDL-C and HDL-C also have been observed. A requirement for adequate renal function is a limitation in patients with CKD. A low incidence of hypoglycemia, ability to promote weight loss, and availability as an oral formulation diminish common barriers to glucose-lowering therapy.