Invokana
Invokana, when paired with diet and exercise, is used to improve glycemic control and low blood sugar in adults suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Invokana was the first in a new class of drugs that works by inhibiting sodium glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2), one of the key transport proteins in the kidney filtration system. Invokana made it where excess sugar was excreted in the urine, instead of returning to the bloodstream.
Since its release to the market in 2013, Invokana has been linked to a number of serious side effects including kidney failure, myocardial infarction (heart attacks), other cardiovascular issues and ketoacidosis. It has been alleged that manufacturers failed to warn patients and physicians of the increased risks connected to Invokana.
The following prescription medications are being investigated for the increased risk of serious side effects: Invokana, Invokamet, Farxiga, Xigduo XR, Jardiance, and Glyxambi.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis is one of the severe side effects associated with Invokana. Ketoacidosis occurs when the body does not have enough insulin to use sugar in the bloodstream as a fuel source, and begins to break down fat and muscle cells. This releases ketones into the body, which can cause build up in the blood and urine. Diabetic Ketoacidosis can cause blood clots, heart attack, death of intestinal tissue due to low blood pressure, kidney failure, coma and death.
From 2013 to 2014, the FDA observed 20 cases of diabetic ketoacidosis, ketoacidosis, or ketosis in patients treated with Invokana and other similar drugs. All patients required emergency room visits or hospitalization to treat ketoacidosis.
According to Forbes Magazine, Invokana trials also indicated that the drug raised cholesterol levels and elevated the risk of heart attack within in the first 30 days of taking the drug.
In May of 2015, the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) published a report on the adverse events reported to the FDA that were related to Invokana. In its first year, Invokana was linked to 457 adverse events, including kidney failure or impairment, kidney stones, fluid and electrolyte issues, dehydration, urinary tract infections, weight loss and hypersensitivity reactions. Although Invokana has been tested in more than 10,000 patients, the ISMP warned that the studies were not long enough to determine whether it actually had any measurable clinical benefit on the long-term complications of diabetes.
The FDA warned in May of 2015 that SGLT2 Inhibitors such as Invokana may result in serious side effects. The FDA stated that the association was continuing to investigate the issues surrounding the drugs to determine whether further warnings or changes need to be made.
Health Canada also announced that they would be investigating Invokana and similar drugs due to “international reports of ketoacidosis with the use of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with Type 2 diabetes.”
If you or a loved one has suffered illness or injury after taking Invokana or other SGLT2 inhibitors, the attorneys associated with Jacoby & Meyers can help you receive compensation for your damages. Our lawyers can review the facts of your case to determine whether you have a valid claim.
Please contact the experienced Mass Tort and Product Liability Litigation network of attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers for a free case evaluation.