Dapagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor that causes the kidneys to excrete excess glucose, lowering blood sugar and blood pressure. Its healthspan relevance stems from robust clinical trial data showing profound protection against heart failure and chronic kidney disease progression, even in non-diabetic individuals. This suggests it addresses fundamental aging pathways related to metabolic stress and inflammation beyond simple glucose control.
Verdict
A powerful tool for cardiorenal protection, especially with metabolic dysfunction.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
High Value
RISK LEVEL
Moderate
EVIDENCE GRADE
A
MONTHLY COST
$10 - $600
Protocol
- Take one 5mg or 10mg tablet orally once daily, typically in the morning.
Flags
- Increased risk of genital yeast infections and urinary tract infections is common.
- Rare but serious risk of euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), even with normal blood sugar.
- May cause dehydration and hypotension; adequate fluid intake is important.
- Not recommended for individuals with severe kidney impairment (low eGFR).
- Potential for Fournier's gangrene, a rare but serious genital infection.