Iowa residents who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes should be aware that a certain class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors could potentially increase the risk of ketoacidosis, a complication that could be life-threatening. These drugs include Glyxambi, Farxiga, Invokana and other brand names.
Ketoacidosis is a condition that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting and swelling of the brain. If a person suffering from ketoacidosis is not treated, death can occur. This condition most often occurs in those who have type 1 diabetes, though studies have shown that it can occur in those who have type 2 diabetes as well. Because it is most commonly seen in patients with type 1 diabetes, doctors are generally not on the lookout for ketoacidosis symptoms in patients with type 2 diabetes.
A study confirmed the increased risk of ketoacidosis in those who used SGLT2 inhibitors. However, experts noted that the rate of diabetic ketoacidosis was still very low, meaning that the drugs should still be used if they are effective. In fact, researchers found that only about 1 in every 1,000 patients actually developed the condition after taking SGLT2 inhibitors. However, those who are using SGLT2 inhibitors should be aware of the potential complication and monitor for symptoms, particularly when they feel ill.
If a healthcare professional fails to properly monitor a patient who is taking SGLT2 inhibitors for ketoacidosis, the patient could suffer life-threatening complications that could ultimately result in death. If a patient does not survive the complications of a worsened medical condition due to a lack of proper monitoring after being put on a drug with a known risk, the surviving family members might want to meet with a medical malpractice attorney to see what options for seeking compensation for their loss might be available.
