What is Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is an oral anti-diabetic medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by preventing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to increased excretion of glucose and water in the urine, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Canagliflozin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, both alone and in combination with other medications, to improve glycemic control and prevent complications associated with high blood sugar.
What is Canagliflozin used for?
Canagliflozin, sold under the brand name Invokana among others, is an antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of medications known as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.
The primary mechanism of action of canagliflozin involves inhibiting the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys, which plays a key role in glucose reabsorption from the urine back into the bloodstream. By blocking this transport system, canagliflozin reduces glucose reabsorption and allows glucose to be excreted in the urine instead of being reabsorbed by the body. This results in lower blood sugar levels. Canagliflozin is typically administered orally once daily.
In addition to its antidiabetic effects, canagliflozin has also been found to have a range of beneficial cardiovascular effects when used in patients with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, it has been shown to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by approximately 14% compared to placebo. Canagliflozin is generally well-tolerated but may cause side effects like urinary tract infections and increased urination frequency.
Canagliflozin side effects
- Kidney stones
- Increased risk of amputations (especially for people with a history of amputation, peripheral artery disease, or foot ulcers)
- Increased blood sugar levels during illness (e.g., infections)
- Increased risk of bladder cancer
- Changes in body fat distribution, including weight gain around the midsection, particularly noticeable in women
- Vaginal yeast infections
- Stomach discomfort and pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing quickly
- Urinary tract infections
- Increased risk of bone fractures
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