Dizziness SGLT2: How Diabetes Medications Can Cause Dizziness and What to Do

When you take an SGLT2 inhibitor, a class of diabetes drugs that help the kidneys remove excess sugar through urine. Also known as gliflozins, these medications include drugs like dapagliflozin and empagliflozin. They work by blocking a protein in your kidneys called SGLT2, which lets sugar leave your body instead of being reabsorbed. That lowers blood sugar — but it also pulls water out with it. And that’s where dizziness often comes from.

Dizziness isn’t just a side effect — it’s a signal. When your body loses too much fluid, your blood pressure can drop, especially when you stand up fast. That’s called orthostatic hypotension. Older adults, people on diuretics, or those with kidney issues are more likely to feel lightheaded or faint. It’s not rare: studies show up to 1 in 10 people on SGLT2 inhibitors report dizziness in the first few weeks. And it’s not always about dehydration. Some people get it because their blood sugar drops too fast, or because the drug affects sodium levels. It’s not the drug failing — it’s your body adjusting. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

What helps? Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid skipping meals or cutting carbs too much. Don’t stand up too quickly from sitting or lying down. If you’re also taking blood pressure meds, your doctor might need to adjust the dose. And if the dizziness lasts more than a week or comes with confusion, fast heartbeat, or fainting — call your provider. It’s not always serious, but it can be a warning sign of something worse, like low blood volume or an electrolyte imbalance.

You’ll find posts here that dig into how these drugs interact with other meds, what to watch for when you’re on multiple treatments, and how to tell if your dizziness is just a nuisance or a red flag. Some articles talk about how SGLT2 inhibitors affect kidney function over time. Others explain why some people feel fine while others struggle. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there are clear steps you can take to stay safe and keep your treatment working.