Educational guide
SGLT2 Inhibitors: What They Are, Uses & Side Effects
A note from Cleveland Clinic Managing Type 2 diabetes can be a challenge. It can be overwhelming to keep track of medications, check your blood sugar, watch what you eat and stay active. Some days may feel exhausting. SGLT2 inhibitors are an option your provid
This guide cannot diagnose a condition or recommend a personal treatment plan. Discuss medical questions with a qualified professional.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Managing Type 2 diabetes can be a challenge. It can be overwhelming to keep track of medications, check your blood sugar, watch what you eat and stay active. Some days may feel exhausting.
SGLT2 inhibitors are an option your provider may suggest to help lower your blood sugar. They’ll choose the one that fits your health needs best. It’s important to take it exactly as prescribed. Taking too much or too little can lead to problems. Regularly checking your blood sugar helps ensure the medicine is working appropriately.
Experts You Can Trust
Medically Reviewed.Last updated on 07/31/2025.Learn more about the Health Library and our editorial process.
References
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
Experts You Can Trust
Medically Reviewed.Last updated on 07/31/2025.References
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
- Jasleen B, Vishal GK, Sameera M, et al. Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors: Benefits Versus Risk (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36819350/). Cureus. 2023 Jan 18;15(1):e33939.Accessed 7/29/2025.
- National Kidney Foundation (U.S.). SGLT2 inhibitors (https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/sglt2-inhibitors). Last updated 12/2024. Accessed 7/29/2025.
- Padda IS, Mahtani AU, Parmar M. Sodium-Glucose Transport Protein 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576405/). 2023 Jun 3. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Accessed 7/29/2025.
- Preda A, Montecucco F, Carbone F, et al. SGLT2 inhibitors: from glucose-lowering to cardiovascular benefits (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38456601/). Cardiovasc Res. 2024;120(5):443-460. Accessed 7/29/2025.
- Wright EM. SGLT2 Inhibitors: Physiology and Pharmacology (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35419546/). Kidney360. 2021;2(12):2027-2037. Published 2021 Sep 17. Accessed 7/29/2025.