Common adverse effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors include genital fungal infections and increased urination.

• A. Diarrhea and weight gain
• B. Genital fungal infections and increased urination
• C. Hypoglycemia only
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (B)

Genitourinary infections and increased urination are classic adverse effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors because these drugs block glucose reabsorption in the kidney, causing more glucose to spill into the urine (glucosuria). The excess glucose in the urinary tract creates an environment that promotes fungal growth, leading to genital fungal infections, while the osmotic effect of glucose pulls water into the urine, increasing urine volume (polyuria). These effects are among the most consistently reported and characteristic for this medication class.

Diarrhea and weight gain aren’t typical adverse effects—weight loss is more commonly seen due to calorie loss in the urine, and diarrhea is not a defining feature. Hypoglycemia risk exists but is not the primary or most common adverse effect, especially when used alone. Hypertension can occur due to diuresis, but it’s not the defining adverse effect pattern for SGLT-2 inhibitors.