Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/14/2025

DPP4i and SGLT2i Impact on Genitourinary Infections

SGLT2i and Genitourinary Infection Risk

  • SGLT2i therapy is associated with a significantly higher risk of genital mycotic infections (6% of patients on SGLT2i vs. 1% on placebo) 1

Risk Factors and Management

  • Counsel patients on proper genital hygiene before and during SGLT2i therapy 2
  • Most genital mycotic infections can be treated with standard antifungal therapy without discontinuing SGLT2i 2
  • Consider temporary discontinuation of SGLT2i in severe or recurrent UTIs 2
  • Discontinue SGLT2i immediately for severe infections or Fournier's gangrene 2

Special Considerations

  • SGLT2i should be used cautiously in patients with recurrent or severe urinary tract infections 3
  • For patients with chronic kidney disease, SGLT2i benefits on kidney and cardiovascular outcomes generally outweigh the risk of genitourinary infections 1, 4
  • Additional research is needed to determine the role of SGLT2i in patients post-transplant, as immunosuppression may modify infection risks 1

Clinical Decision-Making Algorithm

  • Provide thorough education on hygiene and early symptom recognition for high-risk patients on SGLT2i 2
  • Consider alternative antidiabetic agents if infections become burdensome 3
  • Implement preventive strategies and close monitoring if SGLT2i benefits outweigh risks 2
  • Monitor for symptoms of genitourinary infections during follow-up visits 2
  • Treat most infections with standard therapy without discontinuing SGLT2i 2
  • Discontinue SGLT2i only for severe infections or Fournier's gangrene 2