Canagliflozin and Metformin

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Canagliflozin/metformin treats Type 2 Diabetes. Can cause nausea. Take with food to help with nausea.

Canagliflozin and Metformin Overview

Reviewed: January 23, 2015
Updated: 

Canagliflozin/metformin is a prescription medication used to treat Type 2 Diabetes.

It is a single product containing 2 different medications: canagliflozin and metformin. Canagliflozin belongs to a group of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. SGLT2 inhibitors work by allowing the kidneys to get rid of more sugar by dumping it in the urine. Metformin belongs to a group of drugs called biguanides. Biguanides work by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. Together, these medications work to lower blood sugars. 

This medication comes in a tablet form and is usually taken twice a day with food. Common side effects of canagliflozin/metformin include diarrhea, bloating, frequent urination, and thirst.

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Canagliflozin and Metformin Drug Class

Canagliflozin and Metformin is part of the drug class:

Canagliflozin and Metformin FDA Warning

WARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS

  • Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious complication that can occur due to metformin accumulation. The risk increases with conditions such as renal impairment, sepsis, dehydration, excess alcohol intake, hepatic impairment, and acute congestive heart failure.
  • The onset is often subtle, accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, increasing somnolence, and nonspecific abdominal distress.
  • Laboratory abnormalities include low pH, increased anion gap, and elevated blood lactate.
  • If lactic acidosis is suspected, canagliflozin/metformin should be discontinued and the patient hospitalized immediately