SGLT-2 Inhibitors and Weight

SGLT-2 inhibitors are a class of medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes that also help with weight loss. They work by causing the kidneys to remove excess sugar from the blood through urine, which means calories are literally flushed out of the body. Examples include empagliflozin (Jardiance) and dapagliflozin (Forxiga).

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors block glucose reabsorption in the proximal renal tubule, inducing glycosuria and a net caloric loss of approximately 200-300 kcal per day. Weight loss averages 2-3 kg over 6-12 months, accompanied by reductions in blood pressure and improved cardiovascular outcomes. Unlike GLP-1 receptor agonists, their weight loss effect plateaus and is more modest, but they offer complementary cardiorenal benefits independent of glycaemic control.

SGLT-2 inhibitors represent an important option for patients with both obesity and type 2 diabetes, offering weight loss alongside proven cardiovascular and kidney protection. Dr. Joseph Wang at Accord Medical can assess whether this medication class fits into your personalised weight management plan.