The FDA has recently issued a public statement warning consumers of the potential dangers of using Invokana and other drugs that are members of the SGLT2 inhibitors class of medications. The Drug Safety Communication, as it’s called, states that people should be aware of symptoms of a condition known as ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis basically means that a person has too much acid in his or her blood, and it’s extremely dangerous. Many people who suffer from ketoacidosis require hospitalization for treatment, and it has proven to be fatal if it is not detected promptly.
What Are SGLT2 Inhibitors?
SGLT2 inhibitors are medications that are used to treat the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes. These medications are prescribed along with a program of exercise and a healthy diet. When working properly, this protocol will generally lower a person’s blood sugar levels. SGLT2 inhibitors work by prompting the kidneys to remove these high levels of blood sugar from the body through the urine. A healthy diet and exercise help to keep blood sugar levels low.
While Invokana is one of the leading medications of this type, there are other brand names that are members of this class. Examples include:
- Invokamet
- Farxiga
- Xigduo XR
- Jardiance
- Glyxambi
There have already been Invokana lawsuits that have been filed in the United States by injured consumers.
What Are the Alleged Invokana/SGLT2 Side Effects?
The FDA warning, a link to which can be found here, focuses on ketoacidosis. Symptoms of ketoacidosis include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Frequent urination
- Extreme, persistent thirst
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth and skin
What’s perhaps most dangerous with regards to ketoacidosis is the possibility that these symptoms will not be recognized and that the condition will not be treated quickly. If ketoacidosis is not diagnosed quickly and it’s allowed to persist, it could lead to permanent forms of damage or even be fatal for some patients.
In addition to ketoacidosis, there are other alleged Invokana/SGLT2 side effects, including:
- Kidney failure
- Kidney damage
- Urinary tract infections
- Dehydration
- Heart attacks
The FDA has received several reports of problems regarding the use of Invokana and other SGLT2 inhibitors in recent years, prompting the release of its public communication.
What Should I Do If I’m Using Invokana or Another SGLT2 Inhibitor?
If you have been prescribed one of these medications, you need to monitor yourself closely. This should be done with the help of your doctor, who can work with you to identify potential problems. If you begin to not feel well for any reason, seek an immediate medical evaluation. The earlier a problem is detected, the better your overall outcome could be.
If you or someone you love has been harmed as a result of using any of these medications, you also need to take steps to protect your legal rights. You can do so by contacting the Invokana side effects lawyers at Parilman & Associates today to schedule a free initial consultation. You can either email the firm or call 800-800-DRUG.
