Treatment for Type 2 diabetes includes the use of medications belonging to the category of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor. These drugs are typically taken as part of a combination, though it may also be taken as monotherapy. A positive outcome of the medication is possible weight loss, though this depends on various factors, and weight loss may be moderate. Following sub sections offer answers to the question – does Farxiga cause weight loss? This includes the possible effects, drug interactions and overview of medications that help achieve weight loss.
What is Farxiga?
A branded formulation of the drug dapagliflozin, Farxiga is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose by the kidneys, causing more glucose to be eliminated in the urine. This leads to a reduction in the amount of glucose in the blood, which helps to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. The drug is not a cure for diabetes, and is typically used in conjunction with other diabetes medications as recommended by a healthcare provider.
Mechanism of action of Farxiga
The drug, taken orally, works by inhibiting the action of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2), which is responsible for reabsorbing glucose in the kidneys. By blocking SGLT2, Farxiga causes a decrease in the amount of glucose in the blood, controlling blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the medication also has a positive impact on various metabolic factors – blood pressure, weight, and insulin sensitivity. However, the exact mechanism of action for these effects has not yet been fully established.
Off label uses of Farxiga
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, it is however, used “off-label” for other conditions that have not been officially approved by the FDA. Farxiga is known to have a positive impact on heart function and is being evaluated for potential use in treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The medication is known to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease and improve kidney function, and is also being evaluated for the condition. The impact of Farxiga on obesity and weight management is probably one of the more known outcomes and off label uses. The safety and effectiveness of Farxiga for off label have not been fully established and conclusive studies are required.
What are the side effects of Farxiga?
All medications come with the possibility of undesirable outcomes and Farxiga is no exception. Some of the common side effects of Farxiga include the following. The drug can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections, with symptoms such as pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. Other effects include the risk of developing yeast infections, with symptoms such as itching, burning, or redness in the genital area. Farxiga is also known to cause dehydration by promoting the elimination of glucose and water in the urine, with symptoms such as dry mouth, dark yellow urine, and increased thirst. Other undesirable outcomes include low blood pressure, resulting in dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up suddenly. Additionally, there are other side effects of Farxiga, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain that are not commonly experienced.
Possible drug interactions of Farxiga
The medication may also interact with other medications, affecting the desired outcomes. When Farxiga is taken with other drugs, it is also possible that some of the side effects may be aggravated. Drugs that may cause possible interactions with Farxiga include diuretics due to the increased risk of dehydration, which can lead to low blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances. Rifampin, an antibiotic is also not to be taken together, as this can decrease the effectiveness of Farxiga. Certain medications for diabetes, such as Nateglinide can increase the risk of low blood sugar when taken with Farxiga.
Other possible drug interactions include anticonvulsant medications, that can decrease the efficacy of Farxiga. Another possible interaction is with Digoxin, as Farxiga may cause an increase in the concentration of digoxin in the blood, resulting in an increase in the risk of toxic effects. Patients are to intimate treating specialists of all medications, supplements and herbal products in use, to eliminate the possibility of undesirable interactions.
Does Farxiga cause weight loss?
With the basic information behind it is now time to answer the above question. Yes, Farxiga can result in possible weight loss as a side effect. However, the actual weight loss may be moderate, and extent of weight loss may vary from person to person. It also depends on other factors, such as diet, and lifestyle of the patient. This is due to the mechanism of action, of the medication in reducing the amount of glucose absorbed by the kidneys – which can lead to weight loss.
Can medications help reduce weight?
It is necessary to understand the context and the possibility of weight loss through medications. Certain medications can help reduce weight, but are almost always, part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Medications used for weight loss, include appetite suppressants, that work by reducing hunger and decreasing food intake. Similarly, Lipase inhibitors work by blocking the absorption of fat in the small intestine, leading to a reduction in calorie absorption. Other medications include GLP-1 receptor agonists that work by increasing feelings of fullness and decreasing food intake. They also improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
A note of caution – weight loss medications are not recommended for everyone and may not be suitable for long-term use. Individuals are not to blindly resort to use of the medicine, without medical evaluation and recommendations. A large number of individuals are known to attempt use of medications merely because of effectiveness in others. It is also necessary to bear in mind that weight loss medications can cause side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. Prior to commencing any weight loss medications, medical history and existing health issues are to be evaluated to identify the best line of treatment.
Education: Master’s in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Michigan. Experience: Over 8 years of experience writing for health and wellness websites, including WebMD and Healthline, specializing in women’s health and nutrition.
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