Do you also have Type 2 Diabetes? If so, your doctor may have prescribed you a medication called Dapagliflozin. Many people in our country use this medication to control their diabetes. So, today we will talk clearly about this medication, how it works inside our bodies, and what we need to be especially careful about.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine works through your kidneys. That is, it helps your kidneys to remove excess sugar (glucose) from your blood through your urine. This is how it works to lower blood sugar levels and control diabetes.
But that's not all. This medicine also helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and hospitalizations due to heart attacks in people with type 2 diabetes. That's why doctors often recommend it. Remember, it's also essential to follow a proper diet and exercise while taking this medicine.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking Dapagliflozin
Before starting this medication, it is very important to inform your doctor about your complete health condition. Because this medication may not be suitable for some people. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- If you already have kidney disease or are undergoing dialysis treatment .
- If you have previously had a serious condition called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) .
- If you have frequent urinary tract infections or genital yeast infections .
- If you have low blood pressure.
- If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
- If you are a mother who is breastfeeding .
- If you have previously had a condition such as pancreatitis.
- If you are following a low-salt diet .
- If your food intake has decreased due to surgery, illness, or other reason.
- If you are a frequent drinker .
- If you have an allergic reaction to dapagliflozin or any other medicine or food.
It is very important for your safety to give this information to the doctor. So tell him everything without hiding anything.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This is a tablet to take by mouth. Take it with a glass of water. It is best to take it at the same time every day as your doctor has told you. You can take it before or after food. Sometimes it is better to take it with food if you have an upset stomach. You should continue to take this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (e.g., it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose. If this happens, talk to your doctor.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not panic and call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital as soon as possible. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things we need to be careful about when taking this medicine
You should always pay attention to your health while using this medicine.
- Regular medical checkups: Go to clinics at the scheduled times as prescribed by your doctor and check your condition.
- HbA1C test: To see how well your diabetes is being controlled, your doctor will do a blood test called HbA1C . This measures how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months.
- Blood Sugar Testing: Learn how to test your blood sugar at home. Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
- If you have low blood sugar: If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar (sweating, shaking, extreme hunger, dizziness), keep something nearby, such as some sugar, a glucose tablet, or a piece of candy.
- Watch out for dehydration: This medicine can cause your body to lose water because it releases sugar in your urine. Tell your doctor if you have severe diarrhea, vomiting, or are sweating a lot. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Potentially serious side effects and risks
Although dapagliflozin is generally a safe medicine, it can sometimes cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking the medicine immediately and see your doctor or go to a hospital.
| Risk factor/side effect | Features to watch out for |
|---|---|
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, extreme fatigue, difficulty breathing, fruity breath odor. |
| Dehydration | Excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Burning sensation in the urethra, frequent urination, bloody or cloudy urine, pain in the lower back or groin. |
| Genital yeast infections | Redness, swelling, pain, itching, odor, and discharge of a thick substance. |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Fournier's Gangrene (a serious infection) | Redness, swelling, severe pain, or soreness in the area between the genitals and the anus. This is a very rare but serious condition. |
Take-Home Message
- Always take Dapagliflozin tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the right time.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- If you experience symptoms of DKA such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Be aware of the signs of dehydration.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share your medicine with others.
- If you have any questions or concerns, don't assume anything and talk to your doctor.
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