Farxiga and Heart Failure: What You Need to Know
What is Farxiga?
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, which work by causing the kidneys to remove more glucose (sugar) from the blood. This can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
How is Farxiga used to treat heart failure?
Farxiga has been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and death from cardiovascular causes in people with type 2 diabetes and a history of heart failure. It is not approved to treat heart failure in people without diabetes.
How does Farxiga work to improve heart failure outcomes?
The exact mechanisms by which Farxiga improves heart failure outcomes are not fully understood. However, it is thought that the medication may work by:
* Reducing the amount of fluid in the body
* Improving blood vessel function
* Reducing inflammation
* Protecting the heart from damage
What are the benefits of Farxiga for people with heart failure?
Farxiga has been shown to provide a number of benefits for people with heart failure, including:
* Reduced risk of hospitalization for heart failure
* Reduced risk of death from cardiovascular causes
* Improved quality of life
* Reduced symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath and fatigue
What are the risks of Farxiga?
The most common side effects of Farxiga include:
* Urinary tract infections
* Genital yeast infections
* Increased urination
* Thirst
* Nausea
* Constipation
* Diarrhea
* Headache
* Dizziness
Farxiga can also cause more serious side effects, such as:
* Kidney problems
* Liver problems
* Ketoacidosis (a serious condition that can occur when the blood sugar level is too high)
* Dehydration
* Electrolyte imbalances
Who should not take Farxiga?
Farxiga should not be taken by people with the following conditions:
* Severe kidney disease
* End-stage renal disease (ESRD)
* Diabetic ketoacidosis
* History of hypersensitivity to Farxiga or any of its ingredients
How is Farxiga taken?
Farxiga is taken orally once daily. The usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 10 mg once daily if needed.
What should I tell my doctor before starting Farxiga?
Before starting Farxiga, be sure to tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and any other medications you are taking, including:
* Insulin
* Other diabetes medications
* Heart failure medications
* Kidney disease medications
* Liver disease medications
How should I store Farxiga?
Farxiga should be stored at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). It should be kept in its original container and protected from light and moisture.
Farxiga is a prescription medication that can only be obtained from your doctor. Be sure to follow all of your doctor's instructions for taking this medication.