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Why are SGLT2 inhibitors called the protectors of cardiovascular disease? Uncover its mystery!
SGLT2 inhibitors, namely glucose-sodium co-transporter 2 inhibitors, are a class of drugs that specifically inhibit the sodium-glucose transporter in the kidney. In recent years, this type of drug has been widely praised by many medical experts because it can provide additional protection for the cardiovascular system while treating type 2 diabetes.
Not only do these drugs effectively lower blood sugar, they also show significant cardiovascular protective benefits that we had not previously foreseen.
Cardiovascular protective mechanism
The main function of SGLT2 inhibitors is to inhibit the reabsorption of glucose by the renal tubules and promote the excretion of glucose through urine, thereby effectively lowering blood sugar. This mechanism has several cardiovascular benefits:
- Reduce the risk of heart attack: Studies have shown that the use of SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
- Improving kidney function: This type of drug can improve the vascular safety of the kidneys, which is particularly important for patients with chronic kidney disease.
- Weight control: SGLT2 inhibitors often help patients lose weight, which has a direct positive impact on cardiovascular health.
Clinical research support
According to multiple systematic reviews and network meta-analyses, SGLT2 inhibitors can significantly reduce mortality compared with placebo. Especially in patients with chronic kidney disease, its cardioprotective effect is particularly obvious.
This class of drugs is particularly effective for patients with atherosclerosis or heart failure, significantly reducing their risk of cardiovascular events.
Potential adverse reactions
Although the cardiovascular protective effects of SGLT2 inhibitors are widely expected, we still need to be alert to their possible side effects. For example, genital infections, urinary tract infections, and dehydration are more common in patients who use these drugs. In addition, use of SGLT2 inhibitors may increase the risk of ketoacidosis, especially in the period before and after surgery, and doctors often recommend suspending the use of such drugs before surgery.
Patients should be aware of the potential side effects and follow their doctor's instructions when using these drugs.
Interactions with other drugs
In addition, SGLT2 inhibitors may interact with other antidiabetic drugs, especially when used with diuretics, which may increase the risk of dehydration and hypotension. Therefore, in multi-drug therapy, doctors will adjust drug dosages in a timely manner according to the patient's specific conditions to avoid hypoglycemia.
Latest developments and future prospects
With the in-depth research on SGLT2 inhibitors, more and more clinical evidence shows that they can not only improve blood sugar control in patients with diabetes, but also have significant long-term protective benefits on the cardiovascular system. Many experts point out that this class of drugs may be one of the important directions in the future treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
As the clinical application of this class of drugs gradually becomes more popular, our understanding of their cardiovascular protective mechanisms is also deepening.
Conclusion
In summary, SGLT2 inhibitors, as a revolutionary advance in the treatment of diabetes, not only effectively control blood sugar, but also provide additional protection for cardiovascular health. However, should every diabetic patient consider using this type of medication?
