Diabetes Rx Gets Label Change

(RxWiki News) A class of diabetes medications just got a safety labeling change.

This label change is for the class of medications called sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Some medications in this class include the following:

This label change calls for the medications to be temporarily discontinued at least three or four days before scheduled surgery. For canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, the recommendation to stop medication before surgery is at least three days. For ertugliflozin, the recommendation is for at least four days.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this safety labeling change because of the risk of developing ketoacidosis when patients undergo surgery.

Ketoacidosis is a serious condition marked by high levels of blood acids called ketones. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, tiredness and trouble breathing.

After surgery, the medication can be restarted if the patient meets certain requirements.

Always tell your doctor the medications you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs and herbal and nutritional supplements.

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions.