How do these medications lead to DKA? The SGLT2 inhibitor improves insulin secretion, but patients then have less absolute insulin in the circulation. They then produce free fatty acids and ketones. Because of the mode and mechanism of action, ketones are generated just by giving the drug to these patients.
In most cases, this is good for patients. However, if they run out of insulin, they may then develop ketoacidosis. In those cases, you must make sure that you are giving your patients enough insulin if they are on an SGLT2 inhibitor plus insulin.