Certified Diabetes Educator Practice Exam

SGLT2 inhibitors, which are used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes, have several potential side effects. One common side effect associated with this class of medications is the occurrence of genital infections. This is largely due to the mechanism of action of SGLT2 inhibitors, which promote glycosuria, or the excretion of glucose in the urine. When glucose is present in the urine, it creates an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria and yeast, leading to increased rates of urinary tract infections and genital infections, particularly in females.

Headaches and joint pain can occur as side effects but are generally less specific and prevalent compared to genital infections. Increased hunger is also not typically associated with SGLT2 inhibitors; instead, some patients may experience weight loss due to the caloric loss from glucose excretion. Thus, genital infections stand out as a notable concern with this class of medications, confirming it as a common side effect in clinical practice.