Farxiga

The active ingredient in Farxiga is dapagliflozin. Farxiga is classified as an SGLT2 inhibitor, which means it functions by influencing the kidneys. The kidneys usually filter glucose out of the blood and then reabsorb it. Farxiga works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose back into the blood by blocking a protein called SGLT2 that's responsible for this reabsorption. This blockage leads to more glucose being removed from the body through urine, ultimately reducing the overall blood sugar levels.

Farxiga also reduces the amount of sodium reabsorbed by the kidneys. By preventing sodium reabsorption, the heart fills with blood and pumps it throughout the body more easily. This can improve blood flow through the kidneys and lower the stress on these organs to help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-approved product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Farxiga. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Farxiga:

• Farxiga is typically taken by mouth once a day, with or without food. Try to take Farxiga at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medicine in your body. This helps you get the most effective control of your blood sugar levels.
• The recommended starting dose for Farxiga is 5 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum dose of 10 mg daily. In people with type 2 diabetes, Farxiga is commonly used together with metformin.
• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Don't double your dose to catch up.
• It's important to follow the prescribed dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and not exceed the recommended dose. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your individual needs.

The most common side effects of Farxiga seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Frequent urination
• Yeast infections
• Increased thirst
• Urinary tract infections
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Nausea or upset stomach

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Farxiga. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Ketoacidosis
• Ketoacidosis is a condition where the body produces high levels of ketones, which are acidic byproducts of fat metabolism.
• Symptoms may include nausea, unusual tiredness, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, fruity-scented breath, and trouble breathing.
• If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
• Genital yeast infections
• Farxiga may increase the risk of developing genital yeast infections, particularly in women.
• Symptoms may include itching, redness, swelling, abnormal discharge, and discomfort in the genital area.
• It is important to promptly consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Symptoms may include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, cloudy or bloody urine, and lower abdominal pain. If you experience these symptoms while taking Farxiga, it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider.
• Dehydration
• Farxiga works by increasing the amount of blood glucose excreted through urine, which can lead to increased urination. This, in turn, can potentially result in dehydration.
• Life-threatening allergic reactions
• If you have a known allergy to dapagliflozin or any other ingredients in Farxiga, you should avoid taking this medication.
• Get medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction:
• Swelling in your face, throat, or tongue
• Fast heartbeat
• Extreme drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Sweating
• Increased risk of having pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

Contact your healthcare professional for medical advice about any possible adverse effects you experience while taking Farxiga. You can report your adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before starting Farxiga, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Kidney problems like polycystic kidney disease, chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage kidney disease, or if you are on dialysis. Your doctor should monitor your renal function while on this medication.
• Farxiga is contraindicated for patients who are on dialysis.
• A risk of dehydration.
• This is particularly important in elderly patients or those with kidney issues.
• A condition in which you take insulin or an insulin secretagogue.
• A dose adjustment may be necessary for better glycemic control to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Genital fungal infections.
• It is important that they are treated.
• There is a risk noted by the FDA of a potential link between Farxiga and a rare but serious infection of the genital area called Fournier's gangrene.
• Any issues with LDL-C (cholesterol) levels.
• They most likely will need to be observed and managed following standard care protocols.
• Active bladder cancer or have a history of bladder cancer.
• Farxiga should not be given to patients with active bladder cancer.
• An estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 45 mL/min/1.73m2.
• Farxiga is not recommended for patients who fit this profile.

The listed contraindication with Farxiga includes hypersensitivity to dapagliflozin or any other ingredient in Farxiga.

Farxiga can start lowering blood sugar within a few days, though it may take 4–8 weeks to achieve its full effect. For heart failure and kidney disease, improvements may take several weeks to months. Regular monitoring will help assess the medication’s effectiveness for each condition.

When Farxiga is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Diuretics
• This could potentially increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure.
• Farxiga can be used in combination with diabetes medications such as sulfonylureas like glipizide. However, using Farxiga and these drugs together may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Drugs affecting kidney function
• Farxiga may interact with drugs like NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, or ARBs, which potentially could cause kidney injury or worsening kidney function.

It's essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions.

Farxiga is available as an oral tablet in two primary dosages: 5 mg and 10 mg.

Farxiga should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture. It's advisable to keep it in its original container, out of reach of children and pets.

Avoid storing Farxiga in the bathroom or near a heat source as this could impact its effectiveness. Remember to discard any outdated or unused medication properly. Always refer to the medication's packaging or consult with your pharmacist for more specific storage instructions.

Farxiga is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

Yes, there is a generic version available of Farxiga in the United States.

To stop taking Farxiga, consult your healthcare provider, as they can guide you based on your specific health needs. Stopping suddenly may cause a rebound in blood sugar levels if you're using it for diabetes, or potential complications if treating heart failure or kidney disease. Your doctor may suggest a gradual taper or an alternative treatment to manage your condition safely.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you. It is not recommended that Farxiga is taken if you are pregnant, especially during the second and third trimesters due to the potential risk to the fetus.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you. It is not known if Farxiga is found in breast milk. The manufacturer does not recommend taking Farxiga if you are breastfeeding.