Question 1

What is Invokana?

Accepted Answer

Invokana is a medication that contains the active ingredient canagliflozin. It works by blocking a specific protein in the kidneys that is responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the bloodstream.

By preventing this reabsorption, the medication allows the body to eliminate excess sugar through the urine. This process helps to lower the overall levels of glucose circulating in the blood.

Question 2

What is Invokana used for?

Accepted Answer

Invokana is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control), cardiovascular risk reduction in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease (major adverse cardiovascular events), and risk reduction in diabetic kidney disease: end-stage kidney disease, doubling of serum creatinine, cardiovascular death, and hospitalization for heart failure.

Question 3

How does Invokana work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Invokana belongs to a group of medications called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works differently than many other diabetes medications because it focuses on the kidneys rather than the pancreas or insulin sensitivity.

In a healthy body, the kidneys filter blood and then reabsorb sugar (glucose) back into the bloodstream so the body can use it for energy. Invokana blocks the specific protein (SGLT2) responsible for this reabsorption process.

When this protein is blocked, the kidneys do not return as much sugar to the blood. Instead, the excess sugar is passed out of the body through urination. This process helps to:

Lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Reduce the workload on the kidneys over time.

Lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in certain patients.

Because this medication causes sugar to be excreted in the urine, it is common for patients to notice an increase in the amount or frequency of urination while taking it.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Invokana?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Invokana is canagliflozin .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Invokana?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Invokana may include:

genital yeast infections

urinary tract infection

increased urination

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Invokana?

Accepted Answer

Invokana belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Invokana and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Invokana

Invokana comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day, specifically before the first meal of the day. It is helpful to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent routine.

When taking this medication, follow these general guidelines:

Swallow the tablet whole.

Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

Carefully follow the directions on your prescription label and ask your healthcare provider to explain any part you do not understand.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take extra medication or double your dose to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Invokana safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There is limited information regarding the use of Invokana in pregnant women. However, animal studies have shown that exposure to the medication during the periods corresponding to the second and third trimesters of human pregnancy may cause harm to the developing kidneys of the fetus. For this reason, Invokana is typically not recommended for use during the second and third trimesters.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of your treatment options with your healthcare provider. Controlling blood sugar is essential during pregnancy, as poorly controlled diabetes can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.

Breastfeeding

It is not known whether Invokana passes into human breast milk. Because animal studies have shown the drug is present in milk and because of the potential for serious adverse effects on a nursing infant's kidney development, breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking this medication. You should consult with your healthcare provider to decide whether to stop breastfeeding or stop taking the medication.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Invokana come in?

Accepted Answer

Invokana is available in the following form:

Oral tablet

This medication is taken by mouth, typically before the first meal of the day.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Invokana?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Invokana (canagliflozin) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013. It is currently approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control alongside diet and exercise. It is also indicated to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, in adults with type 2 diabetes and established heart disease.

Additionally, the FDA has approved Invokana to treat diabetic kidney disease and to reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in certain adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Safety Communications and Label Changes

The FDA has issued several important safety updates for Invokana since its initial release:

Amputation Risk: In 2017, the FDA required a Boxed Warning regarding an increased risk of leg and foot amputations. In 2020, the FDA removed this Boxed Warning after reviewing new data, though the risk is still monitored and listed in the drug's standard safety information.

Ketoacidosis and Infections: The FDA has issued warnings that Invokana may increase the risk of ketoacidosis (excess acid in the blood) and serious urinary tract infections. In 2018, a warning was added about a rare but serious infection called necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier’s gangrene).

Bone Health: The FDA updated the label to include information about an increased risk of bone fractures and potential decreases in bone mineral density.

Question 11

What should I know about Invokana and weight loss?

Accepted Answer

How Invokana Affects Weight

Invokana (canagliflozin) is an SGLT2 inhibitor prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. While it is not an FDA-approved weight-loss drug, many patients experience a reduction in body weight while taking it.

The medication works by blocking the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose. This causes the body to eliminate excess sugar through urination. Because sugar contains calories, this process results in a daily loss of calories. On average, people taking Invokana may lose between 200 and 300 calories per day through their urine.

Clinical observations regarding weight loss include:

Average Weight Reduction: Many individuals lose a modest amount of weight, typically around 2% to 3% of their starting body weight.

Fluid Loss: Some initial weight loss may be due to the medication's diuretic effect, which causes the body to lose water along with the sugar.

Lifestyle Factors: Weight loss is generally more significant when the medication is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity.

Because Invokana is not intended as a primary weight-loss treatment, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional for its approved indications, such as managing type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of cardiovascular or kidney issues.

Invokana

Medication Quick Facts

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