Type 2 Diabetes Research Study
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio / Texas Diabetes Institute are conducting a study on SGLT2 inhibitors for people with type 2 diabetes or elevated blood sugar to better understand how these medications affect ketone production and metabolic health.
Fast Facts
30-75 year olds using diet and/or anti-diabetic pills to manage type 2 diabetes
Not using TZDs, DPP-4 inhibitors, or injectables to treat diabetes
Compensation
provided
Conducted in
San Antonio, TX
Study Background
This study aims to better understand how certain diabetes medications influence the body’s production of sugar and ketones.
SGLT2 inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, are commonly used to help lower blood sugar levels by allowing the body to remove excess glucose through urine. In addition to improving blood sugar control, these medications have been shown to provide important benefits for heart and kidney health, even in individuals without diabetes. However, they may also affect how the liver produces glucose and how the body generates ketones, which are an alternative energy source.
In some cases, increased ketone production can lead to a serious condition called ketoacidosis, where ketone levels become dangerously high. This study is designed to better understand these metabolic changes so researchers can improve treatment strategies and reduce risks for people with type 2 diabetes. The findings may help make these medications safer and more effective for a wider range of patients.
Study Background
This study aims to better understand how certain diabetes medications influence the body’s production of sugar and ketones.
SGLT2 inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, are commonly used to help lower blood sugar levels by allowing the body to remove excess glucose through urine. In addition to improving blood sugar control, these medications have been shown to provide important benefits for heart and kidney health, even in individuals without diabetes. However, they may also affect how the liver produces glucose and how the body generates ketones, which are an alternative energy source.
In some cases, increased ketone production can lead to a serious condition called ketoacidosis, where ketone levels become dangerously high. This study is designed to better understand these metabolic changes so researchers can improve treatment strategies and reduce risks for people with type 2 diabetes. The findings may help make these medications safer and more effective for a wider range of patients.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to understand how SGLT2 inhibitors affect sugar and ketone production in the body, and to help prevent complications like ketoacidosis in people with type 2 diabetes.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Using diet and/or anti-diabetic pills to manage type 2 diabetes
- Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or have elevated blood glucose levels
- Ages 30-75
- BMI between 21–45
Exclusion Criteria:
- Using injectables (e.g., insulin, Semaglutide, Tirzepatide) to treat diabetes
- Using DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., sitagliptin) to treat diabetes
- Using TZDs (e.g., Actos) to treat diabetes
- Serious eye or kidney issues as a result of diabetes
- Heavily exercising
If you choose to participate:
- You will complete a screening visit to determine eligibility
- You will attend approximately 2 to 10 total visits over up to 3 months
- Several visits will be shorter check-ins, while 4 visits will last about 8–9 hours
- During longer visits, you will receive controlled substance infusions and monitoring
- Study staff will closely monitor your health, including blood sugar and ketone levels
- A phone interview will be conducted before enrollment to confirm eligibility
Participants will receive approximately $1,600–$1,700 for completing the study.
You will also receive:
- A voucher during your screening visit
- Free meals from the Texas Diabetes Institute cafeteria after each long visit
- Transportation assistance via Lyft, if needed
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.