SGLT2 Inhibitors: A Novel Pharmacological Approach in Heart Failure Treatment?

Pharmacist Learning Objectives

1. Explain the proposed mechanisms of action of SGLT2 inhibitors in reducing the risk of adverse heart failure outcomes

2. Examine the current evidence for SGLT2 inhibitors in HFrEF and HFpEF

3. Summarize the adverse effects associated with SGLT2 inhibitors NASH

Pharmacy Technician Learning Objectives

1. Review the proposed mechanisms of action of SGLT2 inhibitors in reducing the risk of adverse heart failure outcomes

2. Summarize the adverse effects associated with SGLT2 inhibitors

Diabetes and heart failure are two diseases that are highly correlated. Until recently, antidiabetic agents either had a neutral effect or possible harm with regard to cardiovascular outcomes. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2-inhibitors are the latest class of drugs for hyperglycemic management in patients with T2DM. A serendipitous benefit of decreased risk of heart failure hospitalization was discovered and emerging evidence suggests that benefit extends to people without diabetes and in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Despite the benefit shown in clinical trials, clinicians should be mindful of the adverse effects of these agents as a class and weigh the risk versus benefit for each patient. This activity will focus on current evidence of using SGLT-2 inhibitors for patients with heart failure.