The cost of canagliflozin varies based on factors such as dosage, insurance coverage, and pharmacy. Without insurance, a 30-day supply of canagliflozin can range from approximately $200 to over $500 [1].
How much does canagliflozin typically cost?
For a 30-day supply of canagliflozin, patients can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to over $500 if they do not have insurance coverage. The price can fluctuate depending on the specific dosage and the pharmacy where it is purchased [1].
Are there ways to lower the cost of canagliflozin?
Individuals seeking to reduce the expense of canagliflozin may find savings through manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs. Additionally, comparing prices at different pharmacies can sometimes yield a lower out-of-pocket cost [1].
What is the brand name for canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is sold under the brand name Invokana [2].
When does the patent for canagliflozin expire?
Information regarding the specific patent expiry dates for canagliflozin is available through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com, which tracks patent information for pharmaceutical products [3]. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed insights into patent landscapes that influence drug pricing and market exclusivity [3].
Who manufactures canagliflozin?
Canagliflozin is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson [4].
How does canagliflozin work?
Canagliflozin belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works by blocking the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, leading to increased glucose excretion in the urine and a subsequent reduction in blood glucose levels [5].
What conditions is canagliflozin used to treat?
Canagliflozin is prescribed to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is also used to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease, and to reduce the risk of end-stage kidney disease, doubling of serum creatinine, cardiovascular death, and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy with albuminuria [6].
What are the potential side effects of canagliflozin?
Common side effects of canagliflozin include yeast infections of the penis or vagina, and urinary tract infections. More serious, though less common, side effects can include ketoacidosis, severe dehydration, and amputation of the leg or foot [7].
What is the difference between canagliflozin and other diabetes medications?
Canagliflozin, as an SGLT2 inhibitor, offers a different mechanism of action compared to other classes of diabetes medications such as metformin (a biguanide) or sulfonylureas. While metformin primarily reduces glucose production by the liver, and sulfonylureas stimulate insulin release, SGLT2 inhibitors promote glucose excretion through the kidneys [8]. This distinct mechanism can provide additional benefits, such as cardiovascular and kidney protection, which are not as prominent with other drug classes [6].
Are there generic versions of canagliflozin available?
As of recent information, the availability of generic versions of canagliflozin depends on patent expiry and regulatory approvals. Information on generic availability can be accessed through pharmaceutical databases and resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [3].
What is the recommended dosage for canagliflozin?
The recommended starting dosage for canagliflozin is typically 100 mg once daily. Depending on individual response and tolerability, the dosage may be increased to 300 mg once daily [9].
Can canagliflozin be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Canagliflozin is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus and infant. Patients should discuss alternative treatment options with their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding [10].
How does insurance coverage affect the price of canagliflozin?
Insurance coverage significantly impacts the out-of-pocket cost of canagliflozin. With insurance, co-pays can range from a few dollars to much higher amounts, depending on the specific plan's formulary and deductible [1].
What are the risks associated with taking canagliflozin?
Potential risks associated with canagliflozin include an increased risk of leg and foot amputations, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), acute kidney injury, and genital yeast infections. Patients should be aware of these risks and discuss them thoroughly with their healthcare provider [7].
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Sources:
[1] GoodRx. (n.d.). Canagliflozin Prices, Coupons, and Patient Assistance Programs. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/canagliflozin
[2] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Canagliflozin. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a614051.html
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Canagliflozin Patent Information. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] Janssen Pharmaceuticals. (n.d.). Invokana Product Information. Retrieved from https://www.janssen.com/invokana
[5] Davies, M. J., & Bailey, C. J. (2014). Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism, 16(9), 801-808.
[6] Invokana Prescribing Information. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.invokana.com/
[7] U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2020, April 15). FDA Drug Safety Communication - FDA requests withdrawal of Invokamet and Invokamet XR (canagliflozin/metformin hydrochloride) from the market. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-drug-safety-communication-fda-requests-withdrawal-invokamet-and-invokamet-xr-canagliflozinmetformin-hydrochloride
[8] American Diabetes Association. (2020). Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2020. Diabetes Care, 43(Supplement_1), S1-S212.
[9] Drugs.com. (n.d.). *Canagliflozin Dosage*. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/dosage/canagliflozin.html
[10] Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). *Canagliflozin (Oral Route) Proper Use*. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/canagliflozin-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20062402