What is Forxiga?
Forxiga contains the active ingredient Dapagliflozin and is an SGLT2 inhibitor for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2. Like Empagliflozin (Jardiance), it causes the excretion of excess sugar over the urine.
Dapagliflozin was the first SGLT2 inhibitor on the European market. In addition to lowering blood sugar, Forxiga has proven advantages for heart and kidneys and is also permitted to treat heart failure and chronic kidney disease.
Forxiga is manufactured by AstraZeneca.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Dapagliflozin
Dapagliflozin inhibits the SGLT2 transporter in the kidney:
Active mechanism:
- Blocks the back-resorption of glucose in the kidney tube
- About 70 g of glucose are excreted daily over urine
- calorie deficit of about 280 kcal/day
Further effects:
- Blood pressure reduction (approx. 3-5 mmHg systolic)
- Weight reduction (about 2-3 kg in the first months)
- uric acid reduction
- cardio and nephroprotective effect
Study situation: DAPA-HF and DAPA-CKD studies have shown the benefits of Dapagliflozin in heart failure and chronic kidney disease.
Who is it suitable for?
Forxiga is suitable for:
- Adults with type 2 diabetes as a supplement to diet and exercise
- As monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetics
- Diabetes patients with heart failure or chronic kidney disease
- Patients who benefit from weight reduction
Not suitable:
- Diabetes type 1
- Heavy kidney failure (eGFR < 25 ml/min for diabetes)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Common genital infections
Available Dosages
Available strength:
- 10 mg film tablets
Dosing in diabetes type 2:
- 10 mg once a day
No dose adjustment required at:
- Easy to moderate kidney failure
- Liver insufficiency
How to Take
Intake:
- Once a day, at any time of day
- Independent meals
- Swallow tablet with water
Important notes:
- Drink enough (min. 1,5-2 liters daily)
- Good intimate hygiene (prevention of fungal infections)
- In case of acute illness, fever or surgery: inform doctor
- Regular check-ups (purity, blood sugar)
Contraindications
**Forxiga must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to Dapagliflozin
- Diabetes type 1
Preview at:
- Patients over 75 years (dehydration risk)
- Diuretics therapy
- Recurring urinary or genital infections
- Risk factors for diabetic ketoacidosis
Pregnant period: Contraindicated. Do not apply in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Genital fungal infections (Vulvovaginitis, Balanitis)
- urinary tract infections
- Multiplying water
- Back pain
- Squeeze
Occasionally:
- Dehydration
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Dyslipidemia (fat metabolic disorder)
Selten:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Fournier trenches (very rare)
** Genital fungal infections are the most common side effect and occur especially at the beginning of therapy. Good hygiene and possibly local treatment help.
Interactions
Diuretics: Increased liquid loss. Adjust dose if necessary.
Insulin and sulfonylureas: Hypoglycemia risk increases. Dose reduction may be necessary.
No clinically relevant CYP interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Forxiga right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.