One of the reported adverse side effects of Invokana is decreased kidney function. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) noted in their QuarterWatch report for the second quarter of 2014 that Invokana was the subject of 457 adverse event reports of adverse events. Most of these reports were directly or indirectly related to the renal toxicity of Invokana. The FDA states in their initial review that Invokana’s long-term effects on the kidneys are unknown.
Kidneys are about the size of your fist and located in the back of the abdominal region. They work to filter your blood, remove waste, and control the balance of electrolytes and fluid. Kidneys create urine which then passes through to your bladder. In healthy individuals, the protein, SGLT-2, absorbs glucose from the urine back into the bloodstream as the blood is filtered in the kidneys.
Invokana, an SGLT-2 inhibitor, works to lower blood sugar levels of those with Type 2 Diabetes by causing some of the glucose to be flushed out of the body through the urine.
Renal impairment has been reported to the Food and Drug Administration as a potential adverse effect, especially among those who already suffer from impaired kidney function. While taking Invokana it is recommended for patients to have their renal function monitored. Urine tests will show more glucose than usual while using Invokana.
In an analysis of patients with moderate renal impairment there was an “8.9% [occurrence] of adverse reactions among those who took 100 mg of Invokana, and 9.3% with Invokana 300 mg.”
Symptoms of Decreased Kidney Function
Because symptoms of decreased kidney function are often not present initially, once they appear, damage to the kidneys has likely already occurred. If you are suffering from any of the following symptoms while taking Invokana you need to alert your doctor immediately:
- Changes in urine
- Muscle cramps and twitches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness and fatigue
- Trouble sleeping
- Hiccups
- Loss of appetite
- Chest pain
- High blood pressure
- Swelling in lower extremities
- Itching
Decreased kidney function can also lead to pregnancy complications, weak bones, decreased immunity, and damage to your nervous system.
Always check with your healthcare provider before taking Invokana. Make sure they are aware of any kidney problems or family history.
If you start to notice possible decreased kidney function and you have taken the Type 2 Diabetes drug medication, Invokana, the first thing you should do is seek help from the appropriote medical professionals. After seeking medical help, contact an experienced national Invokana lawsuit attorney for a legal consultation free of charge. An experienced Invokana lawyer will be able to properly file a Invokana lawsuit on your behalf and effectively seek and recover the proper compensation you are deserving of.