Integrating Sglt-2 Inhibitors into the Clinical Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Kidney Disease: Current Evidence and Future Outlook

Abstract

Objective and Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is steadily increasing globally. A significant complication of T2DM is diabetic kidney disease, which contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are a class of oral antidiabetic agents that effectively lower blood glucose levels and provide protective benefits for kidney health. Methods: A comprehensive review of studies was conducted focusing on the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with T2DM, including those with chronic kidney disease (CKD), defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m², or urine albumin/creatinine ratio ≥ 30 mg alb/g creatinine. The studies evaluated clinical outcomes such as cardiovascular events, kidney disease progression, and mortality.  Results: Research findings demonstrate that SGLT-2 inhibitors significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Additionally, these medications lower the incidence of cardiovascular-related and all-cause mortality. Renal-specific benefits include slowing the progression of albuminuria, reducing the decline in GFR, lowering the need for renal replacement therapy, and decreasing kidney-related deaths.