Dapagliflozin is a drug to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. This drug cannot cure type 2 diabetes. In order for treatment to be more effective, people with type 2 diabetes are advised to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Dapagliflozin works by reducing the absorption of sugar by the kidneys and excreting it in the urine. Sometimes, this drug is also used to reduce the risk of developing heart failure in type 2 diabetes patients who have heart problems. Dapagliflozin should only be used under a doctor's prescription.
Trademarks of dapagliflozin: Forxiga, Xigduo XR
What is Dapagliflozin
| group | Antidiabetic |
| Category | Prescription drugs |
| Benefit | Treating type 2 diabetes |
| Consumed by | Mature |
| Dapagliflozin for pregnant and lactating women | Category D:There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. It is not known whether Dapagliflozin is absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Film-coated tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Dapagliflozin
Dapagliflozin should not be taken carelessly. The following are things you need to pay attention to before taking dapagliflozin:
- Do not take dapagliflozin if you are allergic to this drug.
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, heart disease, hypotension, kidney disease, alcoholism, urinary tract infection, pancreatic disease, or dehydration.
- Tell your doctor if you have, are currently, or will have dialysis, pancreatic surgery, or a low-salt diet.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking dapagliflozin.
Dosage and Instructions for Use Dapagliflozin
The general dose of dapagliflozin given by doctors to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes is 5 mg once a day. However, the doctor can increase the dose to 10 mg according to the patient's condition.
Dapagliflozin can be given with other antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin. During treatment with dapagliflozin, patients will be asked to do an examination to monitor blood sugar levels and see the effectiveness of therapy.
How to Take Dapagliflozin Correctly
Follow your doctor's advice and always read the instructions on the medicine package before taking dapagliflozin.
Dapagliflozin can be taken before or after meals. Swallow dapagliflozin tablets whole with the help of water. It is recommended to take dapagliflozin at the same time every day.
If you forget to take dapagliflozin, take this medicine immediately if the interval between the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Dapagliflozin cannot cure type 2 diabetes. The use of dapagliflozin must be followed by the application of a healthy diet and regular exercise according to the patient's needs, in order to maximize treatment results.
Store dapagliflozin at room temperature, in a dry place, and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Dapagliflozin Interactions with Other Drugs
Taking dapagliflozin with gatifloxacin can affect blood sugar levels. Therefore, do not use these two drugs together. To prevent other interactions, tell your doctor if you are taking insulin, other antidiabetic drugs, supplements, or herbal products.
Side Effects and Dangers of Dapagliflozin
There are several side effects that can occur after taking dapagliflozin, including:
- Dizzy
- Muscle ache
- Dehydration
Check with your doctor if these side effects don't get better or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug which is characterized by swelling of the lips or eyelids, a rash appears, or difficulty breathing.
In addition, there are some serious side effects that can occur due to the use of dapagliflozin. See your doctor right away if you experience hypoglycemia or any of the following serious side effects:
- Throws up
- Fatigue
- Severe stomach ache
- Hard to breathe
- Decreased frequency of urination
- Fast heart rate
- Pale
- Depression
- Urinary tract infection
- Loss of consciousness or fainting
