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SGLT2 ketoacidosis warning — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateAdverse Drug Reactions and Drug SafetySGLT2 ketoacidosis warningGPhC CRA

A patient taking dapagliflozin has nausea, abdominal pain and rapid breathing. His glucose meter reads 9 mmol/L, so he thinks ketoacidosis is impossible. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: D — Refer urgently because SGLT2 inhibitors can cause ketoacidosis with modest glucose

SGLT2 inhibitors can cause euglycaemic or modestly hyperglycaemic diabetic ketoacidosis. Symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain and rapid breathing require urgent assessment and ketone testing. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: MHRA Drug Safety Update; BNF