Among the leading causes of death in the United States, diabetes ranks 7th. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, occurring when the body does not use insulin properly. Left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to nerve damage, blindness, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and other health issues.
Numerous prescription medications can help to control type 2 diabetes. Invokana is one of these drugs. When used in combination with diet and exercise, Invokana helps patients lower their blood sugar and improve glycemic control by causing the kidneys to remove the sugar through the urine.
However, some patients prescribed Invokana experienced potentially deadly side effects ranging from kidney damage to myocardial infarction (heart attack) and ketoacidosis, leading to the Invokana lawsuit. If you or a loved one suffered side effects or even death after use of Invokana, or similar medications such as Invokamet, Farxiga, Xigduo, Jardiance, and Glyxambi, these questions and answers may be helpful to you.
What is the Invokana lawsuit about?
The Invokana lawsuit alleges that the manufacturer failed to warn patients and the medical community of the increased risks of kidney failure, myocardial infarction (heart attacks), other cardiovascular issues and ketoacidosis. Also alleged is that if the manufacturer had properly warned of the risks, patients would have been prescribed an alternative diabetes medication, and physicians would have provided more frequent health monitoring to watch for signs and symptoms related to these risks.
What are the side effects of Invokana?
The most serious side effects, problems and risks are:
- myocardial infarction (heart attack): a blockage in the arteries prevents blood from reaching the heart, starving it of oxygen and nutrients.
- kidney damage: poorly functioning kidneys allow waste products, fluids, and electrolytes to build up, causing weakness, shortness of breath, lethargy, confusion, abnormal heart rhythms and sudden death.
- ketoacidosis: when the body can’t produce enough insulin, it breaks down fat for energy. This creates a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream called ketones. Excess ketones result in ketoacidosis.
Can pregnant women be harmed by Invokana?
It is unknown whether Invokana can harm the fetus or a breastfed infant. Ask your doctor if you plan to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Has Invokana been recalled?
As of this time, no recall of Invokana related to kidney failure, myocardial infarction or ketoacidosis has been made. Legally, investigation into the harmful side effects of Invokana is still in the early stages, so it could be years before a recall occurs, if at all. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued two safety announcements warning patients to stop taking Invokana and seek immediate medical help for symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tiredness, or breathing difficulties.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by taking Invokana, consult today with a reputable attorney.
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