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SGLT2 inhibitor sick day rules — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateEndocrine TherapeuticsSGLT2 inhibitor sick day rulesGPhC CRA

A patient taking empagliflozin for type 2 diabetes has vomiting and is eating very little. He asks whether to continue his usual tablets. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Temporarily stop empagliflozin and seek advice if unwell or ketones develop

SGLT2 inhibitors can increase risk of diabetic ketoacidosis during acute illness, dehydration or reduced intake. Patients should be counselled about symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, rapid breathing and drowsiness. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS; MHRA Drug Safety Update