The FDA has approved a new drug called Invokana (canagliflozin) for adults with type 2 diabetes. This medicine helps control blood sugar when used with diet and exercise. It also lowers the risk of serious heart problems like heart attack and stroke in people who already have heart disease. For those with kidney disease from diabetes, Invokana can slow kidney damage and reduce the chance of needing dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Invokana works by helping the kidneys remove extra sugar from the blood through urine. It is a pill taken once a day. The approval is based on large studies showing that the drug not only improves blood sugar but also protects the heart and kidneys. This makes it a versatile option for many patients with type 2 diabetes.
However, Invokana is not for everyone. It is not recommended for people with type 1 diabetes or for those with severe kidney disease (eGFR less than 30). In such cases, it may not work well or could be harmful. As with any new medication, patients should talk to their doctor to see if Invokana is right for them. Side effects can include urinary tract infections, dehydration, and a rare but serious condition called ketoacidosis.