Do SGLT2 Inhibitors Have a Place in the Oncology Toolbox?

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, widely used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, have recently emerged as potential anticancer agents due to their effects on tumor metabolism and growth signaling pathways. This article presents a viewpoint on the growing body of preclinical evidence linking SGLT2 inhibition to antitumor activity, including reduced glucose uptake, AMPK activation, mTOR suppression, and cell cycle arrest. Agents such as canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and empagliflozin have demonstrated efficacy across various cancer models, though clinical validation remains limited. We propose that SGLT2 inhibitors may offer a promising therapeutic strategy in metabolically active tumors, especially when guided by molecular profiling. While further research is needed, these findings support reconsidering the oncologic relevance of this drug class within a personalized medicine framework.