This drug for type 2 diabetes can benefit lung and kidney health

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a newer class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. These drugs help lower blood sugar by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, causing it to be excreted in urine.

While their primary purpose is to manage blood sugar, recent studies suggest SGLT2 inhibitors offer additional health benefits that could make them a preferred choice for many patients.

A recent study from the University of Hong Kong compared the benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors to an older class of diabetes drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i).

DPP4 inhibitors have been widely prescribed to help control blood sugar levels but may lack the broader health benefits observed with SGLT2 inhibitors.

The researchers, led by Dr. Cheung Ching-lung, focused on the effects of these medications on kidney and lung health in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Kidney Health Benefits

The study analyzed data from over 30,000 patients in Hong Kong. It revealed that SGLT2 inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of several serious kidney problems, including end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This level of kidney protection was not seen with DPP4 inhibitors.

The findings suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors could play a vital role in protecting kidney function in patients with diabetes, a group at high risk for kidney disease.

Lung Health Benefits

An unexpected finding of the study was the link between SGLT2 inhibitors and reduced risks of lung diseases, such as obstructive airway disease (OAD) and pneumonia. While previous research had established that SGLT2 inhibitors protect the heart and kidneys, their impact on lung health is a newer discovery.

These results open the door to exploring how SGLT2 inhibitors might benefit respiratory health in addition to managing diabetes.

Comparing Treatment Options

The study’s findings suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may be a better option than DPP4 inhibitors for many patients with type 2 diabetes. In addition to lowering blood sugar, SGLT2 inhibitors offer protection for the kidneys, heart, and lungs.

These broad benefits make them an attractive choice for patients who may be at risk for complications in these areas.

Consider Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, SGLT2 inhibitors come with potential side effects. Patients taking these drugs may have an increased risk of genital and urinary tract infections and, in rare cases, diabetic ketoacidosis.

These risks underline the importance of discussing treatment options with a healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and side effects.

The Bigger Picture

This study provides real-world evidence of the wide-ranging benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors. By reducing risks of kidney and lung diseases, these medications could improve the quality of life for people with type 2 diabetes and prevent some of the complications that often accompany the condition.

However, more research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms behind these protective effects.

If you or a loved one has type 2 diabetes, it’s worth exploring all available treatment options with your doctor. Alongside managing blood sugar, treatments that offer additional benefits, like SGLT2 inhibitors, could make a meaningful difference in overall health.

For more information on diabetes care, explore studies on how sleep problems can lead to vision loss in diabetes or how certain drugs may prevent kidney failure.

Additionally, dietary changes, such as incorporating blueberries or ensuring adequate vitamin D intake, could support better health outcomes. This research was published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism and JAMA Network Open.

If you care about lungs, please read studies about a review of COPD-friendly foods for lung health, and can Vitamin C and E help fight lung cancer.

For more health information, please see recent studies about how diet influences lung health, and these vegetables could benefit your lung health.