Canagliflozin
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DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
YES
Teratogenicity
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor
Canagliflozin
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Canagliflozin is used to treat type 2 diabetes, a condition where your body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar. It is also used to reduce the risk of serious problems like heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes who also have related health issues.
Canagliflozin works by helping the body get rid of extra sugar through urine, thus lowering blood sugar levels.
The recommended starting dose is 100 mg once daily, taken before the first meal of the day. For patients needing additional control of blood sugar, the dose may be increased to 300 mg daily.
The most common side effects of Canagliflozin are vaginal and penile yeast infections. Serious but rare side effects include severe bacterial infections, serious urinary tract infections, bone fractures, and serious allergic reactions.
Avoid Canagliflozin if you have type 1 diabetes, severe kidney disease, or a history of severe allergic reactions to it. It's also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks.
Indications and Purpose
What is Canagliflozin used for?
Canagliflozin is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by helping the body get rid of extra sugar through urine, thus lowering blood sugar levels. Importantly, it's also used to reduce the chances of serious problems like stroke, heart attack, or death in people with type 2 diabetes who also have heart or blood vessel disease. It can also help prevent kidney problems and heart failure in those with type 2 diabetes and severe kidney disease. **Medical Term Explanations:** * **Type 2 diabetes:** A condition where the body doesn't use insulin properly (insulin is a hormone that helps sugar enter cells) or doesn't make enough insulin. This leads to high blood sugar. * **Glucose:** Sugar. * **End-stage kidney disease:** Severe kidney damage requiring dialysis or a transplant. * **Cardiovascular:** Relating to the heart and blood vessels. Canagliflozin is *not* for people with type 1 diabetes.
How does Canagliflozin work?
Canagliflozin helps lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by removing sugar from the body through urine. This medication is often used alongside diet, exercise, and other diabetes medicines. Importantly, it can also reduce the chances of serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes who also have related health issues. However, it's not used for type 1 diabetes. Remember, "glucose" is simply blood sugar. "Excretion" means removal from the body. This medication should only be used under the guidance of a doctor.
Is Canagliflozin effective?
Yes, studies have shown that Canagliflozin effectively lowers blood sugar levels, reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications, and slows the progression of kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. Its effectiveness improves when used alongside lifestyle changes.
How does one know if Canagliflozin is working?
Canagliflozin's effectiveness is checked using blood and urine tests. These tests measure kidney function and blood sugar levels. One important blood sugar test is HbA1c (a measure of average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months). You'll also check your blood sugar at home regularly. Your doctor will order these tests before you start taking canagliflozin and while you're on it. This helps them see how well the medicine is working for you and if any adjustments are needed.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Canagliflozin?
The recommended starting dose is 100 mg once daily, taken before the first meal of the day. For patients needing additional glycemic control, the dose may be increased to 300 mg daily. For those with renal impairment, lower doses or adjustments may be required.
How do I take Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin should be taken by mouth once a day, preferably before the first meal. Take it at the same time daily for best results. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and do not change the dose without consulting them. Staying hydrated is important while taking this medication.
For how long do I take Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is usually taken long-term as part of diabetes management. You should continue taking it as prescribed, even if you feel well, as it helps prevent complications. Regular follow-ups with your doctor will determine the duration based on your response and health condition.
How long does it take for Canagliflozin to start working?
Canagliflozin starts working within a few hours of taking the first dose by increasing glucose excretion in urine. However, significant reductions in blood sugar levels or improvements in related health outcomes may take several weeks of consistent use.
How should I store Canagliflozin?
Store Canagliflozin tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container and out of reach of children. Do not use expired medication.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Canagliflozin?
Avoid this medicine if you have type 1 diabetes, severe kidney disease, or a history of severe allergic reactions to Canagliflozin. It’s also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks.
Can I take Canagliflozin with other prescription drugs?
Certain drugs, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, may increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with Canagliflozin. Medications like diuretics can raise the risk of dehydration. Inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking.
Can I take Canagliflozin with vitamins or supplements?
While Canagliflozin does not directly interact with most vitamins, consult your doctor before combining it with supplements. Some herbal products or diuretics may increase the risk of side effects like dehydration.
Can Canagliflozin be taken safely while pregnant?
Canagliflozin is not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing kidneys of the fetus. Consult your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while on this medication.
Can Canagliflozin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
No, Canagliflozin is not recommended during breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and affect the baby’s kidney development. Your doctor will suggest alternative treatments.
Is Canagliflozin safe for the elderly?
Yes, but elderly patients may be at higher risk for side effects like dehydration, low blood pressure, or falls. Close monitoring is recommended for individuals aged 65 and above, especially those with kidney impairment.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Canagliflozin?
Exercise is safe and encouraged for patients taking Canagliflozin as part of a diabetes management plan. However, intense workouts may increase the risk of dehydration or low blood sugar, especially if combined with other medications. Stay hydrated, monitor your blood sugar levels, and consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Canagliflozin?
Alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and dehydration when combined with Canagliflozin. It is best to limit alcohol intake and drink in moderation. Always eat a meal with alcohol to reduce the risk of side effects, and consult your doctor if you plan to drink.
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