IMPACT OF SGLT2 INHIBITORS ON CARDIOVASCULAR OUTCOMES IN TYPE 2 DIABETES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular events and remains one of the leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. In this context, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors have emerged as a therapeutic class with benefits extending beyond glycemic control. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes through a systematic review. The methodology followed PRISMA recommendations, with searches conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library, including studies published between 2015 and 2025. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies involving adults with type 2 diabetes treated with SGLT2 inhibitors were included. A total of 22 studies were selected, comprising more than 150,000 participants. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in cardiovascular mortality and hospitalizations for heart failure, as well as additional benefits in renal outcomes. The effects on major adverse cardiovascular events showed greater heterogeneity among studies. It is concluded that SGLT2 inhibitors are associated with a reduction in relevant cardiovascular outcomes, establishing themselves as an essential therapeutic strategy in the management of type 2 diabetes, particularly in patients at high cardiovascular risk.