Invokana Side Effects

Invokana (canagliflozin), manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, is used to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. The drug was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2013. Invokana belongs to a class of medicines known as sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2). SGLT2 is a transporter responsible for reabsorbing the majority of glucose filtered by the kidneys. The drug works by causing blood sugar to leave the body through urine. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney and nerve damage, blindness, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Invokana has been effective in lowering blood glucose levels in comparison to DPP-4 inhibitors. Drug side effects include the following:

  • Urinary tract infection
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Ketoacidosis
  • Kidney complications
  • Dehydration

Though the drug has helped several patients control their type 2 diabetes, Invokana has caused a condition known as ketoacidosis resulting in kidney damage and failure. If you have suffered medical complications from Invokana side effects, such as an acute kidney injury, contact your doctor immediately. An acute kidney injury is a serious condition which results in the impairment of the kidneys. It causes dangerous levels of waste to build up in the body. Symptoms include decreased urine or swelling in the legs and feet. Your doctor can review your condition and prescribe an alternative type 2 diabetes medication. Do not stop taking the medication without first obtaining medical advice.

Invokana Diabetic Ketoacidosis Side Effect

In 2015, the FDA issued a warning to patients taking Invokana highlighting the potential of developing an increased risk of suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious condition in which the body produces high levels of acid in the blood resulting in ketones. Common symptoms of DKA include the following:

  • Severe thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • High blood glucose
  • Confusion
  • Urinary tract infection

DKA is diagnosed by blood or urine laboratory tests. Most patients have to be hospitalized to treat a DKA condition. Treatment involves receiving insulin and fluids intravenously. The risk of DKA is higher in patients who frequently miss insulin doses. If left untreated, DKA can lead to the loss of consciousness and eventually be fatal. From 2013 to 2015, the FDA received over 100 reports regarding patients developing acute kidney injury while taking Invokana.

Invokana lawsuits against the manufacturer allege the company failed to warn patients and physicians of the increased risk of developing kidney failure after taking Invokana. Patients argue that had they been adequately warned about developing kidney complications, doctors would have prescribed an alternative type 2 diabetes medication. Patients claim that they would have also monitored their health closer for potential signs of DKA, renal impairment, and heart issues.

If you have suffered kidney complications after taking Invokana, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our Invokana injury lawyers for a consultation. Depending on the nature of your injury, you may receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our law office is currently reviewing individual claims for Invokana injuries.