Indications
Invokamet is a prescription medication used to control high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is a combination of canagliflozin and metformin, which work together to lower blood sugar levels in the body through different mechanisms. While canagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor that aids in the removal of excess glucose from the body through urine, metformin is a biguanide that reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity.
Invokamet helps prevent complications such as stroke, heart attack, kidney damage, blindness, loss of limbs, and nerve problems by controlling high blood sugar levels. However, Invokamet is not intended for people with diabetic ketoacidosis or type 1 diabetes mellitus.
Uses and Dosage
Your doctor may prescribe Invokamet in tablet form, instructing you to take it by mouth twice a day with meals. The tablet regularly at the same times each day and drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise advised. The dosage will depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.
To minimize risks of side effects, your doctor may start with a low dose and gradually increase it. You should inform your doctor about all medications you use, including prescription, nonprescription, and herbal products. Check your blood sugar levels regularly and keep track of the results to share them with your doctor. If your blood sugar levels are consistently high or low, your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise plan or diet for optimal management of your condition.
For individuals who are not currently taking either canagliflozin or metformin, the recommended dosing for Invokamet is 50mg of canagliflozin and 500mg of metformin taken orally twice a day with meals as the starting dose.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Invokamet (Canagliflozin/Metformin Hcl):
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Frequent urination
- Gas
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Stomach upset
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Invokamet (Canagliflozin/Metformin Hcl):
- Bloody urine
- Bone loss or bone fractures
- Changes in urine output
- Dehydration
- Painful urination
- Signs of high potassium level in the blood (slow or irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness)
- Signs of yeast infection in the vagina or in the penis (redness, burning, itching, unusual discharge)
- Swelling of the legs and feet
- Symptoms of high blood sugar or hyperglycemia (fruity breath odor, rapid breathing, confusion, flushing, rapid breathing, drowsiness, frequent urination)
- Symptoms of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia (palpitations, sweating, shaking, tingling sensation, blurred vision, dizziness)
Form and Strength
Invokamet (Canagliflozin/Metformin Hcl) is available in the following forms and strength:
Invokamet: Tablet
- 50/500 mg
- 50/1000 mg
- 150/500 mg
- 150/1000 mg
Caution
- Invokamet should not be taken with any other medication that contains metformin. It may be taken with other diabetes medications, but you should talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.
- Invokamet contains metformin, which can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious condition that can cause death. Lactic acidosis occurs when there is too much lactic acid in the body, and symptoms may include muscle pain, weakness, and difficulty breathing.
- Invokamet can increase the risk of kidney problems, especially in patients with existing kidney disease. Symptoms of kidney problems may include swelling in the feet and ankles, changes in urinary frequency or color, and difficulty breathing.
- Invokamet can cause dehydration, especially in patients who do not drink enough fluids. Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, dizziness, and headache.
- Invokamet can cause low blood sugar, especially when taken with other diabetes medications that can also lower blood sugar.
- Canagliflozin may increase your risk of lower leg amputation, especially if you have had a prior amputation, a foot ulcer, heart disease, circulation problems, or nerve damage.
- Invokamet should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. You should talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Invokamet cause weight loss?
Yes, weight loss is a possible side effect of Invokamet.
How should Invokamet be taken?
Invokamet should be taken with meals. The dosage is determined by your doctor and based on your individual medical condition and response to treatment.
Can Invokamet cause low blood sugar?
Yes, Invokamet can cause low blood sugar, especially when taken with other diabetes medications that can also lower blood sugar. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and blurred vision.
How long does it take for Invokamet to work?
The time it takes for Invokamet to lower blood sugar varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the individual's medical condition, dosage, and diet and exercise habits.
Can Invokamet cause dehydration?
Yes, Invokamet can cause dehydration, and drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/invokamet.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/204353s010lbl.pdf
- https://www.invokana.com/about-invokamet-invokamet-xr
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6868666b-c25e-40d1-9d1f-306bbe9390c1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-166783/invokamet-oral/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/invokamet/what-is
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