Invokana was designed to help patients with Type 2 diabetes control blood sugar levels; however, it’s been shown to contribute to or cause ketoacidosis. This can lead to other symptoms, including brain swelling, coma, or even death. So that leads to the question: is Invokana safe? Individuals taking Invokana could be at risk for harmful side effects and might be entitled compensation for injuries they or someone they know may have experienced.
What is Invokana used for?
Released in March 2013 by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Invokana is a medication taken orally that is prescribed to reduce blood sugar levels in those living with Type 2 diabetes. The drug was one of the first SGLT2 inhibitors approved by the FDA to help block the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys and to increase glucose secretion. Afterwards excess blood sugar would be expelled through urination.
Invokana side effects
The side effects of Invokana vary between patients; however, the FDA warns that taking it can put you at risk for developing a serious health condition known as ketoacidosis. This condition causes ketones to accumulate in the body and become toxic, which requires emergency treatment to avoid severe dehydration, brain swelling, coma, or even death.
Warning signs of ketoacidosis include:
- Abdominal pain
- Confusion
- Unexplained fatigue
- Dehydration
- Vomiting
Other significant risks include stroke, kidney problems, or heart attack. SGLT2 inhibitors that treat Type 2 diabetes have also been known to increase the risk of urinary tract infections and possibly trigger dangerous levels of blood acids.
In December 2015, the FDA required all SGLT2 inhibitor manufacturers to include label warnings outlining the risk of ketoacidosis and urinary tract infections. The FDA also ordered Johnson & Johnson to conduct a clinical trial in which they discovered Invokana carried an increased risk for cardiovascular problems, serious blood infections, and kidney injuries requiring hospitalization.
Hopefully this answers your question of, “Is Invokana safe?”
Invokana lawsuits
Lawsuits have already been filed on behalf of patients who developed ketoacidosis as a result of taking Invokana. Other cases have been made against similar SGLT2 inhibitor manufacturers as well. The attorneys handling these cases are arguing that Invokana’s manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, failed to warn customers about the risks taking the drug carried, including kidney failure, heart attacks, and ketoacidosis associated with the medication.
Other claims include:
- Negligence
- The Manufacture of a defective drug
- Misrepresenting the drug’s risks and benefits
You may be entitled to compensation if you or someone you know has suffered from kidney failure, coma, stroke, heart attack, cardiomyopathy, or diabetic ketoacidosis. All you need to do is find the right attorney to handle your case and claim.