Drug Description:
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is a film-coated tablet for people with diabetes mellitus type-2. It works by helping the kidney eliminate glucose from the bloodstream. It is classified as an SGLT-2 (sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2) inhibitor primarily used to control high blood sugar, adjunct to proper diet and exercise.
This medication is also used to reduce the risk of heart failure in adults with type-2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease or risk factors. It also helps in reducing the risk of worsening kidney disease or end-stage renal disease.
Directions
Read the prescription label and instruction sheet before starting this medication. Take this tablet as directed by your physician. Note that the doctor may change your Farxiga dosage depending on your condition. This medication is taken by mouth, usually in the morning, around the same time every day. Farxiga could be taken with or without food.
As Farxiga does not cure diabetes but only helps control your blood sugar level, you have to continue this medication even if you feel well. Do not discontinue taking this medication unless advised by your physician.
Lifestyle modification is also necessary for this drug to work. Farxiga is only a part of the complete treatment. Proper diet and regular exercise are also important.
Side effects
Common side effects of Farxiga are:
-stuffy or runny nose
-sore throat
-changes in urine
-yeast infections
Ketoacidosis or the increase of ketones in your blood or urine is one of the adverse effects that you should watch out for. Warning signs of ketoacidosis are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, and sweet-scented breath. This medication’s other serious side effects are hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), urinary tract infection, and necrotizing fasciitis.
Precautions
Before initiating the use of Farxiga, patients should be evaluated for risks of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This is a life-threatening condition that has been reported among patients with type-1 and type-1 diabetes mellitus on SGLT-2 inhibitors, like Farxiga.
It is also important to evaluate renal function beforehand. Those with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of mL/min/1.73 m2, on loop diuretics, or the elderly may be at risk for intravascular volume depletion, leading to acute kidney injury. Always monitor renal function and watch out for hypotension.
This medication could cause dehydration. It may cause you to feel dizzy and tired. Follow your physician’s instructions on how much fluid you should take every day.
Do not take this medication if you have a known allergy to dapagliflozin or any ingredients Farxiga may have. Signs of an allergic reaction include skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, and difficulty breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Farxiga work?
It works by blocking sugar and sodium reabsorption in the kidneys. It could excrete sugar through urination.
Farxiga vs Jardiance – Which is right for me?
Farxiga and Jardiance are both SGLT-2 inhibitors and have the same mechanism of action. However, Farxiga is approved to prevent heart failure, whereas Jardiance is approved to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.
What is the difference – Farxiga versus Invokana?
These medications could be used with other medications to control blood sugar levels among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus. Adverse effects of Farxiga include yeast infections and urinary tract infections. Conversely, Invonkanahas been associated with increased risk of leg ang food amputations.
Can patients with type-1 diabetes mellitus take Farxiga?
This drug is not recommended because of concerns over the prevalence of diabetic ketoacidosis among type-1 diabetics taking SGLT-2 inhibitors.
