Invokana is associated with metabolic acidosis, a life-threatening side effect involving too much acid in the body. A growing number of lawsuits have been filed against drug-makers for downplaying this risk.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Invokana induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with metabolic acidosis, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Invokana and Metabolic Acidosis
Invokana is a diabetes drug that works by forcing the kidneys to remove extra sugar from the body in urine. The most common side effects are mild dehydration and infections, but severe cases are risk-factors for ketoacidosis.
Other risk-factors for metabolic acidosis include:
- Illness or fever
- Surgery or severe injury
- Eating or drinking less than normal
- Pancreatitis
- Drinking alcohol frequently
- Missing a dose of insulin
Safety Warnings for Invokana and Metabolic Acidosis
In May 2015, the FDA issued a Safety Communication to warn about the risk of ketoacidosis from Invokana. There were 168 possible cases of metabolic acidosis in patients on Invokana in 2015, according to a report (PDF) by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP).
What is Metabolic Acidosis?
Metabolic acidosis occurs when blood and other body fluids are too acidic. It is a life-threatening condition that usually requires hospitalization. About 1-5% of cases are deadly.
Types of Metabolic Acidosis
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
- Hyperchloremic acidosis
- Lactic acidosis
What is Diabetic Ketoacidosis?
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a complication that occurs in people with type-1 and type-2 diabetes who do not have enough insulin. This forces the body to burn fat and muscles for energy, which release toxic acids called ketones that accumulate in the body.
Invokana and Lactic Acidosis
Many people take Invokana with metformin, or a combination product called Invokamet. Metformin has a “Black Box” warning about lactic acidosis. This occurs when oxygen levels in the body drop.
Symptoms of Metabolic Acidosis
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Fast, shallow breathing
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart-rate
- Fruity-smelling breath
Complications of Acidosis
Left untreated, metabolic acidosis can cause permanent health problems or even death. Some of the most severe complications include cerebral edema (swelling in the brain), blood clots, low blood pressure, kidney failure, and coma.
Diagnosis & Treatment
People with diabetes can test ketone levels at home using test strips. Ketoacidosis must be treated in a hospital. Doctors will use urine and blood tests to check blood pH and other vital signs. Treatment may involve intravenous (IV) insulin, fluids, electrolytes, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and other medications to balance acidity.
Do I have an Invokana Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Invokana induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with metabolic acidosis, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Defective Drug Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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