Invokana (canagliflozin) is used to treat type 2 diabetes and is part of the drug class referred to as SGLT2. SGLT2, or sodium/glucose cotransporter 2, is sodium-dependent glucose transport protein. It works by causing blood sugar to leave the body through urine. However, SGLT2 inhibitor medications, like Invokana, have been linked to a higher-than-normal development of ketoacidosis,a life threatening condition, in addition to an increased risk of amputation.
Invokana was developed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, and is now produced by Jansen Pharmaceuticals, a subdivision of Johnson & Johnson. The drug was FDA approved in March of 2013 for treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has not been approved for treatment of type 1.
However, since its arrival on the market, Invokana has been associated with cases of adverse events, specifically with the increased development of the condition, ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body produces too many acids called ketones (chemicals that break down fat). This occurs when your cells do not get enough glucose for energy, thus causing the body to begin to burn fat for energy, and produce ketones. Ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition that can lead to a coma or even death. The signs and symptoms of this condition develop rapidly, usually within 24 hours. The FDA has even warned in a Safety Communication in May of 2015 that SGLT2 inhibitors can cause diabetic ketoacidosis.
Warning symptoms of ketoacidosis include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Confusion, dizziness, or fainting
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
We may be able to help you if:
- You have taken Invokana to treat type 2 diabetes, and
- You developed ketoacidosis, or
- You suffered a leg, foot or toe amputation.
If you have been seriously affected by Invokana or someone you know has died in associated with treatment by Invokana, please contact us for a free confidential evaluation.