Description
Generic Name: canagliflozin
Drug Class: sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor
Indications
Invokana is an oral prescription drug used to improve glycemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This is prescribed together with proper diet and exercise. It is not indicated for type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis.
Dosage Forms
This is available in the forms of Invokana 100mg and 300 mg tablets.
Mechanism of Action
SGLT2 inhibitors work by reducing glucose reabsorption in the proximal renal tubules. This lowers the renal threshold for glucose, allowing for increased excretion of glucose in the urine. Additionally, it decreases sodium reabsorption and speeds up sodium transfer to the distal tubule.
How to Take Invokana
Before you start using Invokana, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. If you do not understand the use or directions of any medication, you should not take it. If you need further medical advice or additional information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Invokana is only meant to be taken by mouth. This is usually prescribed once a day. You must take it prior to your first meal of the day. Swallow the tablet and drink fluids right after. Make a dosing schedule. Do not increase or decrease your dosage. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
This diabetes medication is only an adjunct to proper diet and regular exercise. It may not work as well if lifestyle changes are not applied. Always eat a healthy balanced meal and do exercise regularly.
Invokana Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Dry mouth
-Frequent urination
-Constipation
Severe Side Effects:
-Fever
-Urgent urination
-Painful urination
-Changes in urine output
-Swelling of the legs and feet
-Muscle weakness
-Irregular heartbeat
-Unusual tiredness
-Vomiting
-Stomach pain
-Trouble breathing
-Yeast infection in the vagina or penis
-Fournier’s gangrene
-High blood sugar
-Low blood sugar
-Bone loss
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Invokana.
If you experience severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and call your doctor or any health care professional.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to canagliflozin or any inactive ingredients the capsule may contain. Make sure you watch out for signs of serious allergic reactions, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives/itchiness, and skin rashes. When this occurs, stop taking this oral medication and seek emergency medical attention right away.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of low blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, mineral imbalance, dehydration, yeast infection, and alcohol abuse. Due to possible drug interactions, you should also mention all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
When blood sugar levels are too high or too low, dizziness, drowsiness, and blurry vision are common symptoms. Practice safety caution when doing tasks that need alertness and clear vision.
Restrict your intake of alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can trigger certain adverse effects. It can also increase the risk of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia and high ketone level.
Pregnant and breastfeeding moms must take this oral drug only if extremely necessary. It is necessary to talk to your doctor about all the possible risks. Additionally, pregnancy can cause or worsen diabetes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Invokana used for?
This is used to control high blood sugar levels caused by type 2 diabetes mellitus. It helps prevent complications like kidney damage, nerve problems, sexual dysfunction, and blindness.
Is Invokana better than Farxiga?
Farxiga versus Invokana – These oral diabetes medications are both SGLT2 inhibitors. However, Farxiga is also used to prevent cardiovascular deaths and hospitalization among diabetic patients with cardiovascular diseases.
What is the difference between Invokana & Jardiance?
Invokana vs Jardiance – These antihyperglycemic agents belong to the same drug classification. Both are also being prescribed only once a day.
Who should not take Invokana?
This is not indicated for patients with diabetic ketoacidosis and type 1 diabetes. This is also contraindicated for those with heart failure, kidney disease, and mineral imbalance.
Can Invokana help you lose weight?
Some patients report weight loss while on this medication, especially if taken with metformin. Even so, there is no direct link between Invokana & weight loss.
How much Invokana can you take?
The starting dose of this oral drug is 100 mg. The maximum dose would be 300 mg a day.
Can you buy Invokana over the counter?
This product is a prescription medication for diabetes. You need to present a valid prescription when purchasing this product from any pharmacy.
How much does Invokana cost?
You may check the list of Farxiga prices on this page by clicking here. To get the best deals, purchase it from Pharmapassport.