What is Dapagliflozin?
Dapagliflozin is an oral anti-diabetic medication belonging to the class of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, allowing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine, thereby reducing blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Dapagliflozin is typically used as a monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin, for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes.
What is Dapagliflozin used for?
Dapagliflozin, also known as Farxiga, is an oral antidiabetic medication that belongs to the class of medications known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It was first approved by the US FDA in 2014 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and later expanded to include its use in adults with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
Dapagliflozin works by inhibiting the SGLT2 transporter in the kidneys, which plays a key role in glucose reabsorption. By blocking this transporter, dapagliflozin increases urinary excretion of glucose, thereby lowering blood glucose levels. This mechanism of action makes it distinct from other classes of antidiabetic medications, such as metformin and sulfonylureas, which work through different pathways to lower blood sugar.
The use of dapagliflozin has been extensively studied in clinical trials, demonstrating its efficacy and safety in patients with type 2 diabetes. Its ability to improve glycemic control has been demonstrated across a range of patient populations, including those who have not responded adequately to other treatments. Additionally, research has shown that dapagliflozin may offer cardiovascular benefits beyond its glucose-lowering effects, further expanding its therapeutic potential.
As a medication, dapagliflozin is available in oral tablet form and typically administered once daily. Its dosing regimen varies depending on the specific indication and individual patient factors, as determined by healthcare providers. Overall, dapagliflozin has emerged as a valuable addition to the armamentarium of antidiabetic medications, offering patients with type 2 diabetes an effective and well-tolerated treatment option.
In terms of side effects and precautions, dapagliflozin may increase the risk of urinary tract infections, increased urination, and dehydration. It is also contraindicated in certain patient populations, such as those with significant kidney impairment or severe kidney disease.
Dapagliflozin side effects
• Increased risk of urinary tract infections • Fungal infections (such as vulvovaginal candidiasis) • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used with other diabetes medications • Kidney problems or worsening kidney disease • Bone fractures, especially in women after menopause • Increased risk of heart failure, but the incidence is very low and generally outweighed by benefits for patients with established heart failure
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.