Canagliflozin
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Canagliflozin
Summary
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
How does Canagliflozin work?
Canagliflozin works by inhibiting the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys. This reduces the reabsorption of glucose from the renal tubules, leading to increased glucose excretion in the urine. As a result, blood sugar levels are lowered, helping to manage type 2 diabetes effectively.
Is Canagliflozin effective?
Canagliflozin has been shown to effectively lower blood sugar levels in adults and children aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes when used alongside diet and exercise. It also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in improving glycemic control and reducing the risk of end-stage kidney disease and hospitalization for heart failure in patients with diabetic nephropathy.
What is Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and kidney disease progression. It works by inhibiting the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys, which increases glucose excretion in the urine, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. It is taken orally, usually once a day before the first meal.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is used as a long-term treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it helps control blood sugar levels over time. The duration of use is typically determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual health needs and response to the medication.
How do I dispose of Canagliflozin?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin should be taken orally once a day before the first meal of the day. It can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is important to follow a healthy diet and exercise plan as recommended by your healthcare provider to manage your diabetes effectively.
How long does it take for Canagliflozin to start working?
Canagliflozin begins to work within the first day of dosing, with plasma glucose levels declining in a dose-dependent fashion. However, the full therapeutic effect on blood sugar levels may take a few weeks to be fully realized. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed and to monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
How should I store Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin should be stored in its original container, tightly closed, and kept out of reach of children. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. It is important to keep all medications out of sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
What is the usual dose of Canagliflozin?
For adults, the usual starting dose of Canagliflozin is 100 mg taken orally once daily before the first meal of the day. The dose may be increased to a maximum of 300 mg once daily for additional glycemic control. For pediatric patients aged 10 years and older, the recommended starting dose is also 100 mg once daily, with the possibility of increasing to 300 mg based on clinical response and tolerability.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Canagliflozin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Canagliflozin is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. There is no information on its presence in human milk, but it is present in the milk of lactating rats. Due to the potential risk to the developing human kidney, women are advised not to breastfeed while taking Canagliflozin. It is important to discuss alternative treatments with a healthcare provider.
Can Canagliflozin be taken safely while pregnant?
Canagliflozin is not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential adverse renal effects on the developing fetus. Limited data in pregnant women are insufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider.
Can I take Canagliflozin with other prescription drugs?
Canagliflozin may interact with certain medications, including insulin or insulin secretagogues, which can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. It may also interact with UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) enzyme inducers, such as rifampin, phenytoin, and phenobarbital, which can reduce its effectiveness. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.
Does Canagliflozin have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Canagliflozin can cause side effects like urinary tract infections, yeast infections, increased urination, and thirst. Rare but serious effects include ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous buildup of acids in the blood, and severe allergic reactions. If you experience any new or severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Always talk to your doctor before stopping any medication.
Does Canagliflozin have any safety warnings?
Canagliflozin has safety warnings, including the risk of ketoacidosis, which is a serious condition where acids build up in the blood. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections and dehydration. Monitor for signs like frequent urination, thirst, or dizziness. There's also a risk of bone fractures. If you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Is Canagliflozin addictive?
Canagliflozin is not addictive and has no known potential for dependence. It does not cause physical or psychological dependence, so there are no specific behaviors or warning signs to watch for. You can take this medicine as prescribed without worrying about addiction.
Is Canagliflozin safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients taking Canagliflozin may have a higher risk of experiencing side effects related to reduced intravascular volume, such as hypotension and dehydration. They may also have a smaller reduction in HbA1c compared to younger patients. It is important for elderly patients to monitor their blood pressure and fluid intake closely and to consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing these risks.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Canagliflozin?
Drinking alcohol can affect blood sugar levels, which may interfere with the effectiveness of Canagliflozin. Alcohol may cause a change in blood sugar, and it is advised to consult with a doctor about the safe use of alcoholic beverages while taking Canagliflozin. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels closely if consuming alcohol.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin does not specifically limit the ability to exercise. However, it may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up too quickly from a lying position. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to get up slowly and rest your feet on the floor before standing. Consult your doctor if these symptoms persist, as they may affect your ability to exercise safely.
Is it safe to stop Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is used for managing chronic conditions like diabetes, which require long-term treatment. Stopping it suddenly can lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of complications. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but stopping without medical advice can be risky. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.
What are the most common side effects of Canagliflozin?
A side effect is an unwanted effect of a medicine. Common side effects of Canagliflozin include urinary tract infections, yeast infections, increased urination, thirst, and constipation. These effects may be coincidental or temporary when starting a new medicine. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication, as they can help determine if the side effects are related to the medicine or another cause.
Who should avoid taking Canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin has several important warnings and contraindications. It can increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, lower limb amputations, and serious urinary tract infections. It is not recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes or severe kidney problems. Patients should be aware of the risk of dehydration, hypoglycemia when used with insulin, and potential genital infections. It is important to monitor for symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if any concerning signs occur.
Forms / Brands
