Recently touted as the latest greatest drug for those suffering from Type 2 Diabetes, Invokana and similar SGLT2 inhibitors aren’t without serious side effects. In fact, reports of ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition, prompted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue a warning about Invokana and Invokamet earlier this year. According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), adverse effects associated with Invokana were higher than 92 percent of all the drugs they monitored in their May 6, 2015 edition of Quarter Watch.
How Does Invokana Work?
Invokana triggers the kidneys to release excess blood glucose through the urine. Unfortunately, this puts patients at an increased risk for ketoacidosis. By eliminating so much glucose in the urine, a variety of adverse events can be kick started in the body. From severe dehydration and fluid imbalances all the way to kidney and cardiovascular damage.
What Dangers Are Associated With Invokana?
• Ketoacidosis
• Kidney failure
• Kidney impairment
• Kidney stones
• Severe dehydration or fluid imbalance
• Urinary tract infections
• Dizziness
• Low blood pressure
• Increased likelihood of falls
• Cardiovascular damage
• Abnormal weight loss
Higher Risks For Older Patients
Older patients or patients with even moderately reduced kidney function may be at an even higher risk for ketoacidosis while on Invokana. If you’re also on other medications including diuretics like Lasix, you could be at an even greater risk still. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms of ketoacidosis while taking Invokana or similar SGLT2 inhibitors, seek immediate medical attention.
Signs and Symptoms of Ketoacidosis
• Difficulty breathing
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unusual fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Confusion
In a Drug Alert entitled “Could New Diabetes Rx be The Worst One so Far?” The Health and Sciences Institute points out that in spite of warnings about the potential dangers of this drug prior to approval, the FDA has allowed drug manufacturer Janssen to sell Invokana, but they’re “required” to lookout for reports of adverse events and submit a final report in 2023, effectively meaning that Type 2 diabetes sufferers will be put at risk for the foreseeable future with little to no repercussions for the drug manufacturer or the FDA.
If you have suffered from the dangerous side effects of Invokana or similar drugs, contact Alexander Law Group, LLP at 888.777.1776 today.
