Canagliflozin
Information about Canagliflozin
Canagliflozin uses
Canagliflozin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults.
How canagliflozin works
Canagliflozin is an anti-diabetic medication. It works by removing excess sugar from your body through urine.
Common side effects of canagliflozin
Urinary tract infection, Increased thirst, Nausea, Constipation, Genital fungal infection, Polyuria, Rash, Upper respiratory tract infection, Dehydration, Dizziness, Fainting, Anaphylactic reaction, Diabetic ketoacidosis, Fournier's gangrene, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
Available Medicine for Canagliflozin
Expert advice for Canagliflozin
- Canagliflozin is used alone or together with other diabetes medicines to control blood sugar and avoid long-term complications.
- It may cause your body to lose too much fluid (dehydration) or you may urinate more often. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- It may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) when used with other antidiabetic medicines, alcohol or if you delay or miss a meal.
- Always carry some sugary food or fruit juice with you in case you experience hypoglycemia symptoms such as cold sweats, cool pale skin, tremor and anxiety.
- It can cause genital fungal and/or urinary tract infections (UTIs) in both females and males, so practice good hygiene.
- Monitor your blood sugar regularly while taking this medicine.
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience constant dizziness, joint pain, cold-like symptoms or unexplained nausea/vomiting.
Frequently asked questions for Canagliflozin
Canagliflozin
Q. What is Canagliflozin used for?
Canagliflozin is used in adults with type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels. It works best when used along with diet and exercise. It is also used in adults having diabetes and cardiovascular disease together. Its use in such patients helps reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke or death due to these cardiovascular events.
Q. Is Canagliflozin the same as metformin?
No, Canagliflozin is not the same as metformin. Canagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor whereas metformin is a biguanide. Canagliflozin lowers blood sugar by causing the kidneys to get rid of more glucose in the urine. On the other hand, metformin works by reducing the amount of sugar which your liver releases into your blood.
Q. How do you take Canagliflozin?
Take Canagliflozin exactly as advised by your doctor. You should swallow the tablet whole with water. You can take your tablet with or without food. It is best to take it before the first meal of the day, preferably at the same time each day. This will help you remember to take it.