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Antidiabetic / SGLT2 inhibitor (gliflozin)

Canagliflozin: uses, side effects & precautions

Also known as Invokana, Vokanamet (with metformin).

Ces informations sont fournies à titre indicatif uniquement et ne constituent pas un avis médical. Consultez toujours un professionnel de santé qualifié pour toute préoccupation médicale personnelle. En cas d'urgence, appelez votre numéro d'urgence local.

What it is used for

  • Type 2 diabetes (to lower blood sugar)
  • Reducing kidney and cardiovascular risk in selected patients (on a doctor's advice)

How it works

Canagliflozin lowers blood sugar by causing the kidneys to remove extra sugar in the urine. It also has kidney- and heart-protective effects shown in studies for certain patients.

How it is taken

Available as tablets taken by mouth, usually once a day before the first meal, and in combination with metformin. Take it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist, or the label directs, and stay well hydrated.

No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.

Common side effects

  • Genital yeast infections (thrush)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Increased urination and thirst
  • Dizziness from mild dehydration
  • Constipation

Serious effects — get help

  • Diabetic ketoacidosis, possible even with near-normal blood sugar — seek emergency care for nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fast breathing, or confusion
  • Rare serious genital infection (Fournier's gangrene) — emergency care needed
  • Lower-limb amputations have been linked to this drug in some studies — report foot sores, ulcers, or infections promptly
  • Severe dehydration or low blood pressure

If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.

Interactions to watch

  • Diuretics (added dehydration risk)
  • Insulin and sulfonylureas (added low-blood-sugar risk)
  • Some medicines affecting liver enzymes may change its effect
  • Alcohol (raises dehydration and ketoacidosis risk)

Who should take care

  • Check your feet regularly and report any sores, blisters, or infections quickly
  • Stay well hydrated and be cautious during illness or hot weather
  • May need pausing for serious illness, surgery, or fasting
  • Generally avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless advised
  • Watch for ketoacidosis symptoms even with normal-looking blood sugar

Frequently asked questions

Why should I check my feet on this medicine?
Some studies linked canagliflozin to a higher risk of lower-limb amputation. Inspect your feet regularly and report sores, ulcers, or infections to your doctor promptly.
When should I take it?
It is usually taken before the first meal of the day. Follow your exact label and pharmacist instructions.
Does it cause low blood sugar?
On its own it rarely does; the risk rises when combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea.
What are the urgent warning signs?
Symptoms of ketoacidosis (nausea, stomach pain, fast breathing) or a severe, painful genital/perineal infection need emergency care.
Is Canagliflozin safe to take?
For most people it is safe when taken exactly as a doctor or pharmacist advises and as printed on the label. Tell your clinician about your other medicines and health conditions, and seek urgent care for any serious reaction.

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