A new class of drug for the management of type 2 diabetes: sodium glucose co-transporter inhibitors: 'glucuretics'.

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a common, chronic disease with a prevalence that is increasing at epidemic proportions. Management involves advice on lifestyle changes, oral anti-hyperglycaemic agents and/or insulin. The kidneys play a major role in the regulation of glucose, re-absorbing 99% of the plasma glucose filtered through the renal glomeruli tubules.