Hormonal
Coadministration of SGLT2 inhibitors and tirzepatide creates a synergistic risk for euglycemic ketoacidosis (EKA), a life-threatening condition characterized by ketone production and acidosis despite normal blood glucose levels.
If you are taking both an SGLT2 inhibitor (like empagliflozin) and tirzepatide, be aware that you are at risk for a rare but serious condition called euglycemic ketoacidosis (EKA). Unlike typical diabetic ketoacidosis, your blood sugar may remain normal, so do not rely on glucose readings alone. If you experience persistent nausea, vomiting, or extreme fatigue, seek medical attention immediately and ask for ketone testing, even if your blood sugar is not high.
We suspect these agents had synergistic effects in our patient, leading to adequate control of his blood sugars yet a state of starvation, ketone production, and resultant systemic acidification.
Why this rating
Based on a single case report; large trials cited showed no cases but lacked sufficient power to rule out the risk.
Source
Euglycemic Ketoacidosis Following Coadministration of an SGLT2 Inhibitor and Tirzepatide
Eli J. Louwagie et al. · JCEM Case Reports · 2025
DOI 10.1210/jcemcr/luaf028
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