People with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are at a higher risk of glycemic variability during Ramadan. Studies pertaining to the impact of glucose-lowering medications such as SGLT2 inhibitors in people with T2D are limited. In this scenario, a recent publication in ‘Diabetes and Metabolism: Clinical Research & Reviews’ explored the effect of empagliflozin, an SGLT2i inhibitor, in people with T2D who were planning to fast during Ramadan.

This was a prospective single-centered cohort study that included 98 patients. The empagliflozin group received the drug for at least three months. For control group, subjects not receiving SGLT2 inhibitors were recruited. Follow-ups were performed before and during Ramadan fasting. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, renal profile, and blood ketone were recorded during visits. Hypoglycemia symptoms were assessed via hypoglycemia symptom rating questionnaire (HypoSRQ).

Baseline anthropometry, blood pressure, and renal parameters were similar in two groups. No significant changes in blood pressure, weight, urea, creatinine, eGFR, or haemoglobin levels during Ramadan were found in either group. Similarly, no difference was detected in blood ketone levels or hypoglycemia indices.

Baseline anthropometry, blood pressure, and renal parameters were similar in two groups. No significant changes in blood pressure, weight, urea, creatinine, eGFR, or hemoglobin levels during Ramadan were found in either group. Similarly, no difference was detected in blood ketone levels or hypoglycemia indices.

The study concluded that empagliflozin use during Ramadan is safe and not associated with an increased risk of dehydration, ketosis, or hypoglycemia. Hence, empagliflozin is a viable option for a glucose-lowering drug for people with T2D planning for Ramadan fasting.