Invokana (canagliflozin) is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor prescribed to lower blood sugar levels in adult patients with type 2 diabetes. This type of drug works differently from other treatments for hyperglycemia because it does not directly stimulate insulin release but instead reduces blood sugar absorption in the kidneys, reducing blood glucose levels.
Invokana lowers the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with cardiovascular disease as well as type 2 diabetes. It can reduce the risk of end-stage kidney disease, hospitalization for heart failure, or worsening of kidney function in adults with type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) who have protein in the urine.
Dosage
The prescribing doctor sets the dose and regime. The recommended dosage of Invokana is one tablet (100 mg) orally daily, taken before the day’s first meal. For additional glycemic control, the dosage may be increased to the maximum recommended dosage of 300 mg once each day.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.Â
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Invokana do not experience any negative side effects. Doctors prescribe Invokana because they assess that the benefits that such treatment yields outweighs any likely unwanted effects.
Some of the side effects that have been reported include:
- Urinary tract infections
- Increased urination
- Increased thirst
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Female genital fungal infections (vulvovaginitis, or vulvitis)
- Male genital yeast infections (Candida balanitis).
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Invokana is prescribed to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes who have an established cardiovascular disease (heart failure or high blood pressure). It can also reduce the risk of end-stage kidney disease and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy with the presence of albumin in the urine.
SGLT2 inhibitors reduced HbA1c levels and weight effectively in patients when combined with a program of diet and exercise.