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Canagliflozin: uses, side effects & brands
Canagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor that lowers sugar and protects the kidneys. It belongs to the Oral diabetes medicine (extra) group. More tablets that control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by different routes.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Oral diabetes medicine (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Type 2 diabetes
- Reducing heart attack and stroke risk in diabetes with heart disease
- Slowing kidney disease in diabetes
- Reducing heart-failure hospital admissions
Common brand names
- India: Invokana, Sugaflow
- Worldwide: Invokana
Common side effects
- Genital yeast infections
- Urinary infections
- Passing more urine and thirst
- Dizziness on standing
Before taking it — precautions
- Pause it during severe illness, vomiting, before surgery, or with very low-carbohydrate diets, as advised (ketoacidosis risk)
- Check your feet regularly and report sores or infections
- Tell your doctor if you take water tablets or may become dehydrated
When to see a doctor urgently
- Nausea, vomiting, belly pain, fast breathing or unusual tiredness, even with normal sugar (urgent)
- Pain, swelling or redness in the genital area with fever (urgent)
- Foot sores, ulcers or infection
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of canagliflozin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it cause sugar in the urine?
It works by making the kidneys pass extra sugar out in the urine, which lowers blood sugar.
How can I prevent genital infections?
Good daily hygiene and drinking enough water help. See your doctor if itching or discharge occurs.
Does it protect the kidneys?
Yes, in people with diabetes and kidney disease it slows kidney damage.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.