Although several treatment options are available to reduce hyperglycemia, only 
about half of individuals with diagnosed diabetes mellitus (DM) achieve 
recommended glycemic targets. New agents that reduce blood glucose 
concentrations by novel mechanisms and have acceptable safety profiles are 
needed to improve glycemic control and reduce the complications associated with 
type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The renal sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 
(SGLT2) is responsible for reabsorption of most of the glucose filtered by the 
kidney. Inhibitors of SGLT2 lower blood glucose independent of the secretion and 
action of insulin by inhibiting renal reabsorption of glucose, thereby promoting 
the increased urinary excretion of excess glucose. Canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, 
and empagliflozin are SGLT2 inhibitors approved as treatments for T2DM in the 
United States, Europe, and other countries. Canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and 
empagliflozin increase renal excretion of glucose and improve glycemic 
parameters in patients with T2DM when used as monotherapy or in combination with 
other antihyperglycemic agents. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors is associated 
with weight reduction, lowered blood pressure, and a low intrinsic propensity to 
cause hypoglycemia. Overall, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and empagliflozin are 
well tolerated. Cases of genital infections and, in some studies, urinary tract 
infections have been more frequent in canagliflozin-, dapagliflozin-, and 
empagliflozin-treated patients compared with those receiving placebo. Evidence 
from clinical trials suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors are a promising new 
treatment option for T2DM.