Invokana (canagliflozin) works by targeting a specific mechanism in the body related to glucose (sugar) regulation. It belongs to a class of medications known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Here's how Invokana works:

1. Kidney Function: In the kidneys, there are small structures called nephrons that filter the blood to remove waste and excess substances, including glucose. Normally, glucose that is filtered out of the blood is reabsorbed back into the bloodstream through the walls of the renal tubules, which are part of the nephrons.
2. SGLT2 Inhibition: Invokana inhibits a specific protein called sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2), which is primarily located in the proximal renal tubules of the kidneys. SGLT2 is responsible for reabsorbing glucose from the filtered urine back into the bloodstream.
3. Increased Glucose Excretion: By blocking the action of SGLT2, Invokana prevents the reabsorption of glucose in the renal tubules. As a result, more glucose remains in the urine and is excreted from the body through urination.
4. Lowering Blood Sugar Levels: The increased excretion of glucose in the urine leads to a reduction in blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. This helps to improve glycemic control and lower elevated blood sugar levels.

Invokana is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is important for individuals taking Invokana to continue monitoring their blood sugar levels, follow their healthcare provider's recommendations for diet and exercise, and adhere to their prescribed medication regimen to effectively manage their diabetes. Additionally, healthcare providers will monitor patients for potential side effects and adjust treatment as needed.

Invokana is the brand name for the medication canagliflozin. It is an oral prescription medication used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Invokana belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by reducing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, thereby increasing the amount of glucose excreted in the urine. This helps lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Invokana is often used in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise regimen to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is important to use Invokana as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to follow their recommendations for managing diabetes effectively. Additionally, individuals taking Invokana should be aware of potential side effects and consult their healthcare provider for guidance on its use.

Unfortunately, it appears we'll have to wait quite a while. The final patent protecting Invokana is set to expire on May 11, 2031, which is almost a decade away. Regrettably, this means that Invokana is likely to remain expensive for the foreseeable future.

BRENZAVVY (bexagliflozin) is an FDA-approved prescription medicine taken once daily to help adults with type 2 diabetes improve glycemic (blood sugar) control in conjunction with diet and exercise. BRENZAVVY is not for people with type 1 diabetes.

We are able to provide this price because of our partnership with the manufacturer, TheracosBio, who manufactures BRENZAVVY.

Invokana is also available as combinations pills: Invokamet and Invokamet XR, which combine canagliflozin with metformin. Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes and is often recommended as a first-line treatment. Since SGLT2 inhibitors are often added to the diabetes treatment regimen, combining them into a single pill can be quite convenient. Instead of managing two separate pills, you can simplify your routine with a combination product, which many people find preferable.

"XR" in Invokamet XRstands for extended-release, meaning the medication is released more slowly into your body. This allows for less frequent dosing, as Invokamet XR is taken once a day compared to the standard Invokamet, which is taken twice a day.

However, there is a trade-off to this added convenience. While it's more user-friendly, it can make adjusting your doses a bit trickier. For instance, if you want to maintain your metformin dose but increase the canagliflozin, you may need to switch to a different combination pill that suits your needs, or possibly go back to taking the individual pills to achieve the desired dose. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs.

Invokana can cost over $1000 for a 90-day supply.

Invokana comes with several risks that you should be aware of prior to taking it. While rare, it is important to be aware of the following risks:

• Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia)
  When used in combination with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas, Invokana can sometimes lower blood sugar levels too much, causing hypoglycemia.
• High Potassium
  Abnormally high potassium levels in the body is a rare but serious side effects of Invokana. This is of greatest risk in individuals with poor kidney function, and therefore these individuals should have their potassium levels monitored if using Invokana.
• Kidney Injury
  Invokana has been associated with acute injury to the kidneys in certain situations, specifically when experiencing some kind of fluid disruption while taking the medication. This most often includes situations such as reduced intake of food or drink, or increased fluid loss, such as extreme diarrhea or vomiting. In this situation a healthcare provider may temporarily hold Invokana use and monitor your kidney function until the situation subsides.
• Ketoacidosis
  Ketoacidosis is a rare condition that occurs when your blood becomes too acidic because of a build-up of “ketones”. This happens when your body can’t use sugars for energy, and instead starts using up fat, which breaks down to ketones. This causes the blood to be very acidic and is dangerous if not treated quickly.
• Lower limb amputations
  There have been reports suggesting an increased risk of lower limb amputations (such as toes or part of the foot) in people taking Invokana. This risk is generally higher for those with a history of amputation, peripheral vascular disease, or neuropathy. It’s also important to monitor any changes while taking the medication, such as pain or sores on the lower limbs.

Many people with type 2 diabetes are interested in medications that can potentially help with weight loss. Some SGLT2 inhibitors are known to have this side effect, although it may not be as pronounced as with other medications. However, it's important to note that during clinical trials assessing the efficacy and safety of Invokana, it did not demonstrate any significant impact on weight.

Invokana is an SGLT2 inhibitor. As it is branded, there are not pharmaceutical alternatives to Invokana. However, if you cannot afford Invokana then you may be able to switch to a different SGLT2 inhibitor, such as BRENZEVVY. Please talk with your healthcare provider to learn more about your options.

The most frequently reported side effects of Invokana include:

• Genital fungal (yeast) infections: This risk is higher in women compared to men
• Urinary tract infections
• Increased urination (frequency and/or volume)

Invokana operates by helping the body eliminate excess sugar through urine. It prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar, allowing this sugar to be expelled from the body through urination. This action helps lower blood sugar levels and improve A1C, a test that measures average blood sugar levels in the past 3 months.

No. There are currently no generics for Invokana. However, there are several SGLT2 inhibitor options available, including BRENZAVVY. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if a different SGLT2 inhibitor may be right for you.