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SGLT2 inhibitor side effects — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCardiovascular TherapeuticsSGLT2 inhibitor side effectsGPhC CRA

A 45-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes is started on dapagliflozin 10 mg daily for its cardiovascular benefit. She asks the pharmacist about potential side effects. Which side effect is most important to counsel about?

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Correct answer: A — Increased risk of genital thrush and urinary tract infections

SGLT2 inhibitors such as dapagliflozin increase urinary glucose excretion, which creates a favourable environment for microbial growth. Genital mycotic infections (thrush) and urinary tract infections are among the most common adverse effects. Patients should be counselled about hygiene measures and when to seek treatment. SGLT2 inhibitors typically cause modest weight loss (not gain), do not commonly cause drowsiness, and have a low risk of hypoglycaemia when used without insulin or sulfonylureas.

Reference: BNF Dapagliflozin; NICE NG28 Type 2 Diabetes