Description
Farxiga is a medication prescribed to lower blood sugar in people with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Farxiga is not approved to treat Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. It should be used in combination with diet and lifestyle modifications.
Farxiga may also be prescribed for people with heart failure to reduce the risk of heart failure hospitalizations.
Farxiga causes the kidneys to excrete more glucose into the urine. This action causes a blood sugar lowering effect for people with diabetes.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C21H25ClO6 |
License |
US FDA, EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
78% |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Dapagliflozin |
Elimination half-life |
~12.9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
5mg, 10mg |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Forxiga, Farxiga, Edistride |
Protein binding |
~91% |
PubChem CID |
9887712 |
MedlinePlus |
a614015 |
ChEBI |
85078 |
ATC code |
A10BK01 |
DrugBank |
DB06292 |
KEGG |
D08897 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth (tablets)
|
Directions
Farxiga is available in two different strengths: 5 mg tablets and 10 mg tablets.
The usual dosage is 5-10 mg by mouth once daily. Farxiga can be taken with or without food. It can be taken with or without a meal.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Farxiga generic is Dapagliflozin.
Interactions
Farxiga works by lowering blood sugar levels, and other agents that lower the blood sugar increase the risk for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Some of these agents include:
- Alpha-lipoic acid
- Citalopram
- Direct Acting Antiviral agents
- Escitalopram
- Fluoxetine
- Glimepiride
- Glipizide
- Glyburide
- Guanethidine
- Insulin
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
- Paroxetine
- Quinolones
- Salicylates
- Sertraline
Cautions
Farxiga should not be used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is a medical emergency.
Farxiga should not be used in severe renal impairment or patients on dialysis.
Use caution if you are taking diuretics or have low blood pressure.
A rare but serious side effect of Farxiga is Fournier's gangrene, which is a serious and life-threatening infection that affects the genitals and perineal region.
Side Effects
Common Farxiga side effects may include:
- Back pain
- Dyslipidemia
- Female genital mycotic infections (yeast infection)
- Hypovolemia
- Low blood pressure
- Nasopharyngitis
- Nausea
- Urinary tract infection
References
- Farxiga [package insert]. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca; 2020.
Frequently Asked Questions about Farxiga
What is Farxiga?
Farxiga is a brand name medication that contains the active ingredient dapagliflozin. It is used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes.
How does Farxiga work?
Farxiga belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream, thereby lowering blood sugar levels.
What is Farxiga used for?
Farxiga is primarily used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, either as a monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications.
Can Farxiga be used in type 1 diabetes?
No, Farxiga is not approved for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. It is only indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes.
What are the common side effects of Farxiga?
Common side effects of Farxiga may include urinary tract infections, genital yeast infections, increased urination, and dehydration. Be sure to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider.
How should I take Farxiga?
Farxiga is usually taken by mouth, once a day, with or without food. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate dose for you. It's important to follow their instructions carefully.
Can Farxiga be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Farxiga should not be used during pregnancy. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Is Farxiga safe for people with kidney problems?
Farxiga can be used in people with certain types of kidney disease, but the dose may need to be adjusted. Your healthcare provider will determine if it's safe for you.
How long does it take for Farxiga to start working?
Farxiga may start to lower blood sugar levels within a few days of starting treatment, but it can take a few weeks to see the full effects. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is important.
Can Farxiga be taken with other diabetes medications?
Yes, Farxiga can be used in combination with other diabetes medications, but the specific regimen will depend on your individual needs and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13170