What are Invokana and Farxiga?

Invokana (canagliflozin) and Farxiga (dapagliflozin) belong to the drug class sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. The FDA approved Invokana in March 2013 and Farxiga was approved in January 2014. They are both indicated for blood glucose (sugar) control in patients who have type 2 diabetes and should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise. These medications decrease blood glucose in people with diabetes by blocking the kidney from reabsorbing glucose and removing excess glucose through the urine. They do this by blocking the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2), which is an enzyme (protein) in the kidney that is responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the body. Lowering high blood glucose can help prevent nerve problems, blindness, and kidney damage in people with diabetes

Evidence from clinical studies has shown a reduction in body weight among diabetic patients. However, Invokana and Farxiga are not approved for the management of weight loss or obesity. It is important to understand the risks and benefits before considering their use in weight loss. 

How Does Invokana and Farxiga Cause Weight Loss?

Invokana and Farxiga increase urinary glucose excretion (UGE) by inhibiting SGLT2. This results in the removal of excess glucose calories every day, ultimately leading to weight loss. Subjects in an Invokana trial showed a UGE of 80 to 100 grams per day which is equivalent to 400 kilocalories (kcal) per day.

Next: Farxiga, Invokana Weight Management Studies In Diabetics And Non-diabetics