Why is this medication prescribed?

Dapagliflozin is primarily prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes. Specifically, it’s used to help lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes by increasing the removal of glucose through the urine. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. Dapagliflozin works independently of insulin by targeting the kidneys to reduce the reabsorption of glucose, thus allowing excess glucose to be excreted in the urine. By lowering blood sugar levels, dapagliflozin helps to reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and vision loss.

In addition to managing blood sugar levels, dapagliflozin may also offer other benefits, such as reducing body weight and blood pressure.

Ultimately, the goal of prescribing dapagliflozin, along with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, is to help patients with type 2 diabetes achieve better glycemic control and improve their overall health outcomes.

How should this medicine be used?

Dapagliflozin is typically taken orally, usually once daily, with or without food. The exact dosage and administration instructions can vary depending on individual factors such as kidney function, other medications being taken, and overall health. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s specific instructions for dosage and administration.

Here are some general guidelines for using dapagliflozin:

• Dosage: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage for you based on factors like your kidney function and other medical conditions. The typical starting dose for most adults is 5 mg once daily. However, some individuals may require a higher dose of 10 mg once daily.
• Timing: Take dapagliflozin at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. You can take it with or without food, but try to choose a time that works best for you and stick to it.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this can affect the way the medication is absorbed into your body.
• Regular Monitoring: While taking dapagliflozin, it’s essential to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your healthcare provider. This helps ensure that your diabetes is being effectively managed and allows for adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
• Other Medications: Dapagliflozin may be prescribed alone or in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin, insulin, or other oral antidiabetic drugs. If you are taking other medications, continue to take them as prescribed unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Hydration: Ensure you maintain adequate hydration while taking dapagliflozin, as it increases the amount of glucose excreted through urine, which can lead to increased urination and potential dehydration.
• Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to dapagliflozin and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about how to use dapagliflozin properly or if you experience any side effects while taking the medication.

Other uses for this medicine

• Heart Failure: Studies have shown that SGLT2 inhibitors like dapagliflozin may help reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in patients with or without diabetes. These medications can help improve heart function and reduce fluid retention.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Dapagliflozin has shown promise in reducing the risk of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease, regardless of whether they have diabetes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for dapagliflozin, here are some important considerations:

• Kidney Function: Dapagliflozin is primarily excreted through the kidneys, so it’s important to monitor kidney function regularly, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney problems or those at risk of developing kidney issues.
• Dehydration: Dapagliflozin increases the amount of glucose excreted in urine, which can lead to increased urination and potential dehydration. It’s important to maintain adequate hydration while taking dapagliflozin, especially during hot weather or when exercising.
• Genital Yeast Infections: Dapagliflozin may increase the risk of genital yeast infections, particularly in women. Patients should be advised to practice good hygiene and report any symptoms of genital infection to their healthcare provider.
• Hypotension: Dapagliflozin may cause a decrease in blood pressure, especially in patients taking antihypertensive medications or those with a history of hypotension. Monitoring of blood pressure is recommended, especially when starting dapagliflozin therapy or increasing the dosage.
• Hypoglycemia: While dapagliflozin lowers blood sugar levels, it is less likely to cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) compared to some other diabetes medications. However, hypoglycemia can still occur, especially when dapagliflozin is used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs or insulin.
• Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Although rare, dapagliflozin may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, particularly in patients with type 1 diabetes or those with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Symptoms of DKA include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and confusion. Prompt medical attention is necessary if these symptoms occur.

As always, it’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions about dapagliflozin with your healthcare provider before starting or making changes to your medication regimen. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current health status.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Monitor Carbohydrate Intake: While dapagliflozin helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing glucose excretion through the urine, maintaining a balanced diet low in refined carbohydrates can help optimize blood sugar control.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water, especially since dapagliflozin increases urine output.
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of dehydration and may affect blood sugar levels. Limit alcohol intake and drink responsibly.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember: If it’s within 12 hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as possible. Then continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Skip the missed dose if it’s closer to the next dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consult your healthcare provider if you’re unsure: If you’re unsure about what to do, or if you’ve missed multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dapagliflozin, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of dapagliflozin may include:

• Genital Yeast Infections: Increased risk of genital yeast infections, particularly in women. Symptoms may include vaginal itching, discharge, or discomfort.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Some individuals may experience an increased risk of urinary tract infections, including symptoms such as painful urination, frequent urination, or lower abdominal pain.
• Increased Urination: Dapagliflozin works by increasing glucose excretion through the urine, which can lead to increased urination, especially in the initial stages of treatment.
• Dehydration: Increased urine output can lead to dehydration, particularly in hot weather or during vigorous exercise. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, and weakness.
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Dapagliflozin may cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): While less common than with some other diabetes medications, hypoglycemia can still occur when using dapagliflozin, especially in combination with other antidiabetic drugs or insulin.
• Increased Cholesterol Levels: Some individuals may experience an increase in cholesterol levels while taking dapagliflozin.
• Ketoacidosis: In rare cases, dapagliflozin may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), particularly in individuals with type 1 diabetes or poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.
• Bone Fractures: There have been reports of an increased risk of bone fractures in individuals taking dapagliflozin, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
• Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, some people may experience allergic reactions to dapagliflozin, characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to report any side effects you experience while taking dapagliflozin to your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary or recommend strategies to manage side effects effectively. Additionally, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Danyelza:

• Storage: Store dapagliflozin tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired dapagliflozin tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose, contact your local poison control center (in the United States, you can call 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, before starting dapagliflozin.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to dapagliflozin therapy and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Be aware of signs and symptoms of potential side effects, such as genital yeast infections, urinary tract infections, dehydration, hypotension, or allergic reactions, and report them to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Continue to monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor while taking dapagliflozin, and follow any dietary or lifestyle recommendations provided to help manage your diabetes effectively.
• Carry identification or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating that you have diabetes and are taking dapagliflozin in case of emergencies.

As always, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of dapagliflozin, and do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns about your medication regimen.