Indications
Farxiga (active ingredient: dapagliflozin) is a prescription medication indicated for the following uses:
- Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM): Farxiga is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
- Reduction of Cardiovascular Death and Hospitalization for Heart Failure in Patients with Heart Failure (HF) and Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF): It is indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure (NYHA class II-IV) and reduced ejection fraction.
Farxiga belongs to the drug class known as sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, which work by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to increased glucose excretion in the urine and consequently lowering blood sugar levels.
Uses and Dosage
Dapagliflozin should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. It is important to take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it, so it is recommended to take it at the same time each day.
The recommended starting dose for improving glycemic control is 5 mg of Dapagliflozin taken orally once daily, which can be increased to 10 mg for additional glycemic control. For other indications, the recommended dose is 10 mg of Dapagliflozin taken orally once daily. It is important to take Farxiga as prescribed by your doctor, and to follow all instructions for taking the medication.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Dapagliflozin
- Genital yeast infection
- Respiratory infections, such as the common cold or the flu
- Urinary tract infection
- Increased urination
- Back pain
- Nausea
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Constipation
Serious Side Effects, Including:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea/vomiting
- Signs of a urinary tract infection (such as burning/painful/frequent/urgent urination, pink/bloody urine)
- Signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine, swelling legs/feet)
- Painful urination or pink/bloody urine that are usually signs of a urinary tract infection
- Yeast infection in the vagina or the penis
Form and Strength
Farxiga and its affordable generic alternative Dapagliflozin are available in the following forms and strengths:
Farxiga Film Coated Tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Dapagliflozin Film Coated Tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Cautions
- Farxiga should not be used by pregnant women and can cause harm to the fetus. It’s also not recommended for use by patients with type 1 diabetes.
- During pregnancy, Farxiga should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing your blood sugar while pregnant. Your doctor may change your diabetes treatment during your pregnancy (such as diet and medications including insulin).
- Older adults should be monitored closely when taking Farxiga, as they may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication. Common side effects that elderly adults may experience include dizziness or fainting (especially when standing), dehydration, and kidney disease.
- It is important to note that Farxiga is not intended for use in patients with type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, or chronic kidney disease (CKD) in association with polycystic kidney disease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How quickly does dapagliflozin work?
Dapagliflozin starts to work after about 2 hours to reduce your blood glucose levels, but it may take up to a week for it to take full effect. You may not have had any symptoms of diabetes, so you will not necessarily feel any different when you take dapagliflozin.
What happens when you stop Farxiga?
Farxiga is not habit-forming and can be stopped without fear of withdrawal syndrome.
How many Farxiga can you take in a day?
To improve glycemic control, the recommended starting dose is 5 mg orally once daily. Dose can be increased to 10 mg orally once daily for additional glycemic control.
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