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Fournier’s gangrene (infection) when taking SGLT-2 inhibitors

Fournier’s gangrene1 is a serious bacterial infection around the vagina, penis, testicles or bottom. It is very rare but needs urgent treatment from secondary care.2

The infection is also known as a ‘flesh-eating disease’ and can worsen quickly if not treated. It presents as swelling, pain, itching or tenderness in or around the vagina, penis, testicles or bottom with changes in colour such as redness or darkened areas. The patient will usually have a fever and be generally unwell.

SGLT-2 inhibitors such as empagliflozin are used for diabetes (funded), all heart failure ejection fractions, and kidney disease.

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