SGLT-2 inhibitors promote weight loss by preventing reabsorption of what, in addition to glucose?

SGLT-2 inhibitors promote weight loss by preventing reabsorption of what, in addition to glucose?

• A. Increase appetite via ghrelin pathways
• B. Inhibit serotonin reuptake
• C. Promote weight loss by preventing reabsorption of glucose as well as water
• D. Block fat absorption

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that SGLT-2 inhibitors cause glucosuria with osmotic diuresis. They block glucose reabsorption in the kidney’s proximal tubule, so glucose is excreted in the urine. Water follows that glucose due to osmotic effects, increasing urine output and leading to a loss of calories and fluids. That combination—preventing reabsorption of glucose as well as water—best explains the weight loss. Other options don’t fit because these drugs do not act to increase appetite, alter serotonin reuptake, or block fat absorption.

The key idea is that SGLT-2 inhibitors cause glucosuria with osmotic diuresis. They block glucose reabsorption in the kidney’s proximal tubule, so glucose is excreted in the urine. Water follows that glucose due to osmotic effects, increasing urine output and leading to a loss of calories and fluids. That combination—preventing reabsorption of glucose as well as water—best explains the weight loss.

Other options don’t fit because these drugs do not act to increase appetite, alter serotonin reuptake, or block fat absorption.