Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT2095

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are oral antidiabetic agents that have gained attention for their beneficial effects on glucose control, as well as their cardio-renal and metabolic benefits in managing diabetes mellitus. As diabetes prevalence increases, the use of these medications is expected to rise. This study aimed to assess the impact of SGLT-2 inhibitors on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes, a topic that has been limitedly explored. Conducted at the Department of Endocrinology, Başkent University Faculty of Medicine (October 2023-May 2024), the study included 210 participants—105 patients using SGLT-2 inhibitors and 105 using other non-insulin antidiabetic agents. The subjects were evaluated separately by sex using the FLUTS/MLUTS questionnaires, validated in both international and Turkish contexts. Additional data on comorbidities, medication use, fluid intake, and body mass index were also collected. Statistical analysis was performed using independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, Chi-square/Fisher’s Exact test, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient, with significance set at P < 0. 05. The results revealed an increase in urinary frequency in male patients using SGLT-2 inhibitors (P = 0. 015), but no significant differences in voiding, storage, or nocturia complaints compared to the control group (p>0. 05). In female patients, no significant effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on voiding, storage, or incontinence complaints were observed (p>0. 05). However, an increase in voiding discomfort was noted in the group using dapagliflozin among females (P = 0. 048). This study is the first to evaluate the effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on LUTS separately by sex and against a control group. It provides new insights, showing an increase in urinary frequency in male patients after more than six weeks of drug use. Additionally, the persistent urinary frequency in male patients using SGLT-2 inhibitors for over a year suggests that pollakiuria may continue long-term. The study also explored the relationship between SGLT-2 inhibitors and incontinence, contributing a novel perspective on their effect on voiding and storage phases. Our findings offer valuable insights into the use of SGLT-2 inhibitors and highlight the need for further research in larger populations to deepen our understanding of their impact on LUTS and optimize drug use in clinical practice.