skip to main content

Diabetic ketoacidosis risk with SGLT2 inhibitor — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardEndocrine TherapeuticsDiabetic ketoacidosis risk with SGLT2 inhibitorGPhC CRA

A 48-year-old man taking canagliflozin reports abdominal pain, nausea and deep breathing after two days of low-carbohydrate dieting. His home glucose is 8.5 mmol/L. What is the most appropriate action?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Advise urgent medical assessment for possible ketoacidosis

SGLT2 inhibitors are associated with diabetic ketoacidosis, which may occur with near-normal glucose levels. Abdominal pain, nausea and deep breathing are concerning symptoms. Low-carbohydrate intake and acute illness can increase risk, so urgent assessment is needed.

Reference: BNF; MHRA Drug Safety Update