Where is Canagliflozin used?
Canagliflozin is indicated to control high blood sugar. This is used in people with type 2 diabetes accompanied by a proper diet and exercise program. Proper control of diabetes may also decrease the risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent:
- Blindness
- Kidney damage
- Loss of limbs
- Nerve problems
- Sexual function problems
This medicine is an inhibitor of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2). The transporter is responsible for reabsorbing the majority of glucose filtered by the kidney. Canagliflozin is supplied as film-coated tablets for oral use. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription.
How does Canagliflozin work?
This type of medication causes the body to pass out glucose from the blood. It is by the urine which means that calories in the glucose are excreted. This act helps support weight loss when the medication is used along with regular physical activity and a healthy diet.
Canagliflozin works by increasing the amount of glucose that gets passed out in the urine. The kidneys filter glucose out of the blood when blood passes through the kidneys. It also filters the SGLT proteins then helps reabsorb glucose back into the blood.
SGLT2 proteins are responsible for more of the glucose that is reabsorbed. By blocking the action of these proteins, less glucose is reabsorbed and so more glucose is excreted via the urine.
How is Canagliflozin taken?
This medicine is to be taken by mouth usually once a day. You may take it before breakfast or at the first main meal of the day. Take it with a full glass of water and at around the same time each day. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. The dosage is based on your condition and response to the drug.
This medication should be taken exactly as it is given by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less of it. If you missed a dose, call your doctor for instructions.
What are the possible side effects of Canagliflozin?
- Increased urination
- Thirst
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Skin sensitivity to sunlight
- Vaginal itching
- Hypersensitivity reactions like skin redness, swelling, or rash
What are the precautions in taking Canagliflozin?
- Before taking this prescription, tell your doctor about the medical history that you have. Tell also if you have any allergies or if you are taking other medications.
- You may experience blurred vision or drowsiness while having this drug. Do not use any machinery or perform any activity that needs your alertness. Do it if you already feeling well.
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding. This may not be recommended for them or they should not breastfeed when taking this medication.
- If you are pregnant, this should only be used when needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Do not take any doses without consulting the doctor first.
- Limit alcohol while taking this medicine. It may increase your risk of developing low blood sugar and a high ketone level.
