A new study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism has found that sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are associated with a reduced incidence of atrial fibrillation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The findings add to the growing body of evidence highlighting the cardiovascular benefits of this class of glucose-lowering medications.
The study, published online on June 3, 2025, analyzed real-world data from patients with T2DM who were newly prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors. Researchers, including Mark Luedde and colleagues, compared the rate of new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) in these patients with that of matched controls not using the medication. The results revealed a significantly lower incidence of AF among SGLT2 inhibitor users.
Atrial fibrillation, a common cardiac arrhythmia associated with increased risk of stroke, heart failure, and mortality, is a growing concern in patients with diabetes. The study’s findings suggest that in addition to improving blood sugar control and reducing hospitalizations for heart failure, SGLT2 inhibitors may offer protective benefits against developing AF.
The authors referenced previous meta-analyses supporting this association, including data showing that the risk of atrial fibrillation was 21% lower in patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors compared to those on placebo or other treatments. Although the exact mechanism behind this effect is not yet fully understood, researchers believe it may be related to reductions in blood pressure, weight, and left atrial volume, as well as potential anti-inflammatory effects.
These results could have important implications for clinical decision-making. Physicians managing patients with T2DM—especially those at increased cardiovascular risk—may consider the added benefit of reduced arrhythmia risk when prescribing SGLT2 inhibitors. As cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in people with diabetes, such findings may influence future treatment guidelines and patient care strategies.
This new evidence reinforces the expanding role of SGLT2 inhibitors beyond glucose control, highlighting their potential as a cornerstone therapy in managing the broader health risks associated with type 2 diabetes.
