Sodium-glucose transporters (SGLT) 2 inhibitors

Dapagliflozin Canagliflozin Empagliflozin Ertugliflozin

Suppress SGLT-2, reduce glucose absorption in renal tubules and ultimately reduce blood glucose levels

Uro-gential tract infection, abdominal pain, nausea

Studies suggest they reduce inflammatory response, macrophage IL-1β and TNF-α in patients

[54] [55]

Sulfonylureas

Glimepiride Gliclazide

Glyburide

Chlorpropamide

Tolazamide

Tolbutamide

Stimulate insulin from β-cells by closing of potassium channels and opening of calcium channels.

Weight gain, headache, hypoglycemia

No data currently available on their effect COVID-19 patients

[56]

Thiazolidinediones

(TZD)

Rosiglitazone Pioglitazone

activate the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) and stimulates the transcription of the genes involved in the management of high glucose levels

Edema, weight gain, hypoglycemia

Studies suggested that Pioglitazone reduces the inflammatory markers like TNF-α, IL-6, elevated C-reactive levels in COVID-19 patients. Also some data suggested that TZD pioglitazone increases ACE-2 levels

[57] [58] [59] [60]

Gestational Diabetes

Biguanides, Insulin, Sulfonylureas etc.

Metformin

Insulin, etc

Lowering glucose levels

Obesity

Upregulation of ACE-2 contributes to more sensitivity against SARS-CoV-2

[61]