The Link Between Invokana and Ketoacidosis
Invokana is a popular drug that is often prescribed to individuals suffering from type-2 diabetes. Renowned for its ability to lower blood sugar and marketed heavily by its maker, Janssen, the drug has recently come under fire for its ability to cause a condition known as ketoacidosis in patients. If you or a loved one was prescribed Invokana and experienced ketoacidosis, please contact the law office of Farah & Farah in Jacksonville, Florida to better understand your rights.
Insulin Production and Type-2 Diabetes
Type-2 diabetes occurs when the body no longer produces enough of the hormone insulin, which is responsible for moving sugar into the cells. Also known as adult-onset diabetes, the condition greatly impacts the body’s ability to metabolize glucose (sugar). The bodies of type-2 diabetes patients often experience difficulty maintaining healthy levels of sugar. Risk factors for type-2 diabetes include obesity, poor diet, and a lack of exercise. The condition can sometimes be managed with a proper diet and exercise routine, but if these measures fail to control blood sugar levels, a drug such as Invokana may be prescribed by a physician.
Known Side Effects
Invokana, also known as Canaglifozin, belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose co-transporters 2 (SGLT2), which are used to lower blood sugar levels. The drug is effective in many patients, but it does have several severe side effects such as:
• Ketoacidosis
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• Kidney Problems
• Hypoglycemia
All of these side effects can be deadly if they are not promptly and properly treated by a medical professional. In order to reduce a patient’s risk of encountering such side effects, it is recommended that patients start at a dose of 100mg, and slowly increase the dosage over time if needed.
Official Invokana Studies
According to a research article posted by the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, drugs such as Invokana have the potential to increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis in patients. This condition occurs when the body ceases to use sugar as fuel and utilizes stored fat instead. Ketoacidosis derives its name from the fact that chemicals, called ketones, build up in the body when this occurs. If the condition is not treated immediately, the patient can suffer from:
• Cardiac arrest (heart attack)
• Kidney failure
• Fluid accumulation in the brain
Contact Our Office
If you or a loved one believes that you have been negatively impacted by Invokana, the legal professionals at Farah & Farah are ready and willing to assist you. Our main office is located in Jacksonville, Florida. Call us at (904) 549-6434.
