Invokana (Canagliflozin)

Description

Indications

Canagliflozin is a medication that, when combined with a proper diet and exercise routine, helps manage high blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This medication aids in preventing complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve issues, limb loss, and sexual dysfunction that may arise from high blood sugar levels.

Canagliflozin is also used by individuals with type 2 diabetes who also have heart disease to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke-related death. People with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease also take canagliflozin to reduce the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure. Canagliflozin functions by increasing the elimination of sugar by the kidneys.

Uses and Dosage

Canagliflozin is administered orally in the form of tablets. It is typically taken once a day, either before breakfast or the first main meal of the day. Take canagliflozin at the same time each day. Take canagliflozin precisely as directed by your physician and avoid taking more or less of it or taking it more frequently than prescribed.

Your doctor may initiate your treatment with a low dose of canagliflozin and gradually increase it.

Canagliflozin helps regulate type 2 diabetes but does not offer a cure. Continue taking canagliflozin, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking canagliflozin without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• constipation
• headache
• nausea
• thirst

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bone breaks or fracture
• dizziness
• fainting or lightheadedness when standing
• hives
• rash
• redness or rash of the penis or foreskin
• signs of dehydration
• signs of kidney problems
• signs of vaginal yeast infection
• skin rash or hives
• skin ulcers or sores
• symptoms of low blood sugar
• symptoms of peripheral ischemia
• symptoms of a urinary tract infection

Caution

Before taking canagliflozin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, including allergies to the drug or its inactive ingredients, as they can cause allergic reactions or other complications.

Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially if you have a history of kidney disease, dehydration, alcohol abuse, low blood pressure, heart failure, mineral imbalances (such as high potassium levels), or yeast infections in the genital area.

You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to excessively low or high blood sugar levels. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in any activity that requires focus or clear vision until you are confident that you can safely perform such activities.

While taking this medication, limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar and high ketone levels.

Stressful situations, such as illness, fever, surgery, or injury, can make it more challenging to manage blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor, as this may necessitate adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar or ketone testing.

Older adults may be more susceptible to the drug’s adverse effects, such as dizziness/fainting (usually when standing), dehydration, or bone loss.

During pregnancy, use this medication only if necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Pregnancy can exacerbate or induce diabetes, so speak with your doctor about a plan for managing your blood sugar during pregnancy. Your diabetes treatment may need to be modified during pregnancy, including diet and medications such as insulin.

It is unknown whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Invokana is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Invokana tablet:
  • 100mg
  • 300mg

FAQ

How much sugar does Invokana remove?

Invokana works with your kidneys to stop some excess sugar from being absorbed back into your body, and to help you lose approximately 100 grams of sugar a day through the process of urination.

How long does it take for Invokana to work?

Although steady state levels are reached in 4 to 5 days, clinical effectiveness with Invokana will vary from person to person and may take longer due to your unique factors such as age, weight, amount of body fluid, additional medications you take, kidney or liver function, or your other medical conditions.

Resources

1. https://www.invokana.com/about-invokana/how-does-invokana-work#:~:text=INVOKANA%C2%AE%20works%20with%20your,through%20the%20process%20of%20urination
2. https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/long-invokana-work-3541902/#:~:text=Although%20steady%20state%20levels%20are,or%20your%20other%20medical%20conditions
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/invokana#adverseeffects
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-163874/invokana-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a613033.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/invokana.html