SGLT2 Inhibitors in Chronic Kidney Disease: From Mechanisms to Clinical Practice

Abstract

In recent years, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have demonstrated beneficial renoprotective effects, which culminated in the recent approval of their use for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), following a similar path to one they had already crossed due to their cardioprotective effects, meaning that SGLT2i represent a cornerstone of heart failure therapy. In the present review, we aimed to discuss the pathophysiological mechanisms operating in CKD that are targeted with SGLT2i, either directly or indirectly. Furthermore, we presented clinical evidence of SGLT2i in CKD with respect to the presence of diabetes mellitus. Despite initial safety concerns with regard to euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis and transient decline in glomerular filtration rate, the accumulating clinical data are reassuring. In summary, although SGLT2i provide clinicians with an exciting new treatment option for patients with CKD, further research is needed to determine which subgroups of patients with CKD will benefit the most, and which the least, from this therapeutical option.