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    Invokana (canagliflozin) belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, which are designed to help treat type 2 diabetes. These drugs work by preventing the buildup of glucose in the kidneys.

    Unfortunately, their effectiveness comes at a steep price for many patients with type 2 diabetes who rely on them to manage their disease.

    What is Invokana?

    Approved by the FDA in March 2013, Invokana is an oral medication prescribed to adults with type 2 diabetes to enhance glycemic control and reduce blood sugar levels. Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a Johnson & Johnson company) manufactures the prescription drug.

    Drugs in the SGLT-2 inhibitor class were developed to lower blood sugar levels by promoting the removal of excess sugar through urination. SGLT-2 inhibitors are commonly used to treat adults with Type 2 diabetes.

    SGLT-2 is a protein in humans that facilitates glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. SGLT-2 inhibitors block the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, increasing glucose excretion through urine, and in turn, lowering blood glucose levels.

    Between Invokana’s release in March 2013 and October 2015, the FDA received more than 100 confirmed cases of acute kidney injury in people who took the drug. These confirmed cases led to the FDA strengthening its warning about the risk of acute kidney injury in people who take Invokana in June 2016.

    In addition to kidney injury and failure, Invokana is also linked to many other health problems, including:

    • Ketoacidosis
    • Loss of bone density
    • Amputations
    • Fournier’s gangrene
    • Bladder cancer
    • Renal cancer

    Invokana’s Link to Ketoacidosis

    In May and December 2015, the FDA issued two drug safety alerts regarding Invokana, highlighting concerns about diabetic ketoacidosis and bone health issues.

    Diabetic ketoacidosis is a severe condition characterized by high blood acidity levels. The cases associated with Invokana were so severe that hospitalization was required.

    This condition poses a significant risk to organ function, as shifts in blood acidity can lead to severe organ damage. Treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis can also result in additional complications such as:

    • Abdominal pain
    • Brain swelling
    • Low blood glucose
    • Low blood potassium

    Invokana’s Link to Fournier’s Gangrene

    In August 2018, the FDA released a warning that linked Invokana with Fournier’s gangrene. Also known as necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum, this condition is a serious infection that develops and spreads on and around the genitals through minor cuts or breaks in the skin.

    As the bacteria multiply and spread, they can destroy the tissue they infect, including muscles, nerves, fat, and blood vessels. The initial symptoms of Fournier’s gangrene include:

    • Swelling, redness, or soreness of and around the genital area
    • High fever
    • Tiredness and malaise

    Because the condition can be fatal, people who develop Fournier’s gangrene need immediate medical treatment, including broad-spectrum antibiotics and even the surgical removal of affected skin and tissue.

    Almost everyone who develops Fournier’s gangrene requires hospitalization due to the risk of complications, and many have died due to the condition.

    Invokana’s Link to Bladder and Renal Cancers

    The kidneys and bladder are part of the body’s urinary system (also known as the renal system). Invokana’s potentially dangerous effects on the kidneys can also cause damage to the bladder and the renal system.

    Over time, that damage can result in both bladder and renal cancer. While no official warnings have been issued, recent research suggests a link between Invokana and these potentially deadly cancers.

    Symptoms of bladder cancer include:

    • Blood in urine
    • Frequent/painful urination
    • Pelvic pain

    Symptoms of renal cancer include:

    • Blood in urine
    • Lower back pain on one side of the body
    • Weight loss
    • Swelling in the abdomen
    • Abdominal pain

    Call Our Experienced Dangerous Drug Injury Attorneys

    Joye Law Firm has been in business for more than 50 years and has the commitment and resources to help investigate complex product liability cases. We are experienced at taking on large corporations and holding them accountable for the harm caused by their products, and we have frequently partnered with other leading law firms on these cases when appropriate.

    We can help review your medical diagnosis about vision damage and medical records regarding the use of Elmiron® and discuss your legal options.

    With these types of cases, you would not be expected to pay any upfront costs. You would only owe a legal fee if your attorneys obtain money for you through a negotiated settlement or a court award. Any legal fees would be paid by a portion of the compensation secured. Even if more than one law firm works on your case, you would only pay one legal fee.

    If you’re thinking about pursuing an Elmiron® lawsuit, the attorneys at Joye Law Firm are here to help you. If you have suffered vision loss after taking the medication, don’t suffer alone. We do not charge for an initial consultation with an attorney to understand your legal options. So, let us help you get peace of mind today.

    Call us at (888) 324-3100 for a no-obligation case review or contact us online.

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