If you have type 2 diabetes and take Invokana (canagliflozin) to help control your blood sugar, you could be at risk for kidney damage. Invokana hit the market in 2013 and in its first year the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) received at least 457 reports of serious adverse events including 54 reports of renal impairment or kidney failure. There is no way to know how many more cases of serious or life-threatening kidney problems were caused by Invokana use because so many adverse drug reactions are never reported to the FDA.
Side Effects Related to Renal Toxicity
According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) report QuarterWatch, during the first year that Invokana was sold there were reports of five types of adverse events related to renal toxicity:
- Kidney stones
- Dehydration and fluid imbalances
- Abnormal or other weight loss
- Urinary tract infections
- Renal impairment or kidney failure
Treating Kidney Failure
Kidney failure is a medical emergency and can be fatal if left untreated. Treatments for kidney failure include:
- Temporary hemodialysis to remove toxins from your blood
- IV fluids or diuretics to restore fluid balance
- Medications to control blood potassium
- Medications to restore blood calcium
If kidney function cannot be restored treatments include:
- Frequent dialysis treatment for life
- Kidney transplant
If you have suffered kidney failure as a result of taking Invokana you face significant financial and personal hardships and may be affected for the rest of your life. You may be able to recover substantial compensation for your injuries. Please, do not wait until it is too late to contact an experienced defective drug attorney.
Invokana Side Effects Resources:
