ASSOCIATION OF SGLT2 INHIBITORS WITH URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN TYPE-2 DIABETIC PATIENTS

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects—particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs) and genital mycotic infections—of Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) in adult patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

Methodology: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted using electronic health records from 500 adult T2DM patients treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors (empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, or canagliflozin) for at least 3 months. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, medication history, renal and cardiovascular outcomes, and infection incidence. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to identify associations, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean age of participants was 56.8 ± 11.2 years; 48.6% were female. Mean therapy duration was 7.4 ± 2.1 months. HbA1c significantly improved (from 8.8% to 7.5%, p < 0.001). UTI incidence was 11% and not statistically significant (p = 0.26). Genital mycotic infections occurred in 9.4% of patients, significantly more common in females (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3–4.5). Renal function remained stable, with no significant changes in eGFR or creatinine. Cardiovascular outcomes showed low rates of mortality (1.8%) and HF hospitalization (5.6%).

Conclusion: SGLT-2i therapy effectively improved glycemic control in T2DM patients without increasing UTI risk but was associated with higher rates of genital mycotic infections in females. Overall, the cardiovascular and renal safety profile was favorable.