Does Invokana Cause Ketoacidosis for Patients with Type-2 Diabetes? New Orleans Pharmacy Error Lawyer Investigates

Before entering the consumer market, pharmaceuticals must pass stringent tests to prove their safety and efficacy. Unfortunately, these evaluations do not always uncover every dangerous side effect – and patients suffer the consequen

ces.

More reports are surfacing about the adverse effects of Invokana, a medication that treats Type-2 diabetes by causing blood sugars to exit the body via the urine stream. According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, studies have linked Invokana to ketoacidosis, a condition that happens when cells do not have sufficient glucose.

According to the American Diabetes Association, the body compensates for this glucose deficiency by burning fat. The byproducts of this process are chemicals called ketones, which have been linked to increased acidity in the blood. This can cause hypersensitivity, kidney damage, UTIs, dehydration, cognitive problems, nausea and even coma.

People with Type-1 diabetes are more susceptible to ketoacidosis than patients with Type-2 diabetes. However, research has linked Invokana with higher rates of ketoacidosis among patients with Type-2 diabetes.

If you or a loved one suffered unexpected side effects when taking Invokana or another medication, contact the The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm. David A. Bowling is a pharmacy error lawyer in New Orleans who will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation.

Until then, read on to learn about the potential effects of Invokana:

What are the symptoms of ketoacidosis?

Ketoacidosis can lead to diabetic coma and even death, so if you notice the symptoms, it is imperative that you visit a doctor immediately. The easiest way to catch ketoacidosis early is to monitor your urine and blood. Home test kits are available for this.

Common symptoms of ketoacidosis include:

High ketone levels in urine;

Frequent urination;

High blood sugar;

Dry mouth;

Breathing difficulties;

Nausea;

And fatigue.

What treatments are available for ketoacidosis?

You should never attempt to self-medicate ketoacidosis. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention.

During the initial treatment, doctors will try to restore electrolytes and improve hydration. Insulin therapy may be necessary to lower your blood sugar.

Are there other factors that can also cause ketoacidosis?

If your body does not produce sufficient insulin, you are at risk of ketoacidosis. This is possible if you are ill or if there is not enough insulin for injections. Ketoacidosis can also happen when diabetics do not eat enough food.

How popular is Invokana?

For the pharmaceutical industry, Invokana has proven a massive income generator. It raked in $278 million during the first quarter of 2015 alone.

If you or a loved one contracted ketoacidosis while taking Invokana, contact the The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm. David A. Bowling is a New Orleans medical malpractice attorney who will represent your interests.

The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm is an AV-rated law Firm under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation.