Invokana (Canagliflozin) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Invokana (canagliflozin) Indications

Invokana, generic name canagliflozin, is an oral medication prescribed for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This medication is an adjunct to a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Invokana lowers the risk of worsening kidney function, end-stage kidney disease, hospitalization due to heart failure, and cardiovascular death in patients with T2DM.

Invokana is classified as a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor. It works primarily by reducing the renal threshold for glucose and increasing the excretion of glucose through the urine. It also lowers the reabsorption of glucose while expediting the transport of sodium to the distal tubule.

Invokana (canagliflozin) Uses and Dosage

Always read the patient information leaflet before using Invokana.

Ivokana is administered by mouth with a full glass of water once daily before breakfast or the first meal of the day. Do not break, divide, chew, or crush Ivokana tablets. It is important to use Invokana precisely as prescribed.

Invokana (canagliflozin) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of taking Invokana are:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Thirst
• Constipation
• Tiredness

These side effects, should they occur, are manageable. If they worsen, then tell your doctor immediately.

Serious Side Effects

Although rare, using Invokana may cause serious side effects. These may include:

• Changes in the amount of urine
• Swelling of the legs and feet
• Muscle weakness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Fever
• Pain when urinating
• Unusual tiredness
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Trouble breathing
• Severe abdominal pain
• Yeast infection
• Low blood sugar
• High blood sugar
• Dehydration
• Bone loss

These severe adverse reactions must be reported right away.

Allergic Reactions

Avoid taking Invokana if you are allergic to canagliflozin or any ingredients included in this product. Seek emergency intervention if an allergy develops while using this prescription medication. Signs of an allergy include:

• Hives
• Swelling of the face, mouth, and neck
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Itching
• Rashes
• Wheezing
• Difficulty in breathing
• Severe dizziness

Invokana (canagliflozin) Cautions

Taking Invokana may be contraindicated for those people who have the following medical conditions:

• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease
• Mineral imbalances
• Yeast infections
• Alcohol use/abuse

Pregnancy can make diabetes symptoms more severe. Talk to your doctor regarding the possible changes in your diabetes treatment if you become pregnant. It is unknown if Invokana is safe during pregnancy.

It is still unknown whether the active component of Invokana can pass into breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or intending to breastfeed, please discuss with your doctor and learn all the possible risks.

Invokana (canagliflozin) Forms and Strengths

Invokana is available as:

• Invokana, tablets
  • 100 mg
  • 300 mg

FAQ

Is metformin and Invokana the same?

These medications are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, they are not similar because they have different mechanisms of action.

Does Invokana cause weight gain?

Invokana is more likely to cause weight loss. If sudden or unusual weight gain occurs, you should consult your doctor right away.

How quickly does Invokana work?

Invokana may start to work within one to two weeks and reduces the levels of glucose in the blood.

Does Invokana protect kidneys?

Invokana mainly inhibits the renal absorption of glucose. It is also known to actively reduce the risk of kidney failure.

Resources

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/204042s026lbl.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-163874/invokana-oral/details

https://www.invokana.com/

https://www.rxlist.com/invokana-side-effects-drug-center.htm

https://reference.medscape.com/drug/invokana-canagliflozin-999811