Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Forxiga (Dapagliflozin).
Cholesterol: Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may cause increases in the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in your blood. If you have High Cholesterol, discuss with your doctor how Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Dizziness: Some people taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may experience decreases in blood pressure. This occurs because the medication causes an increased amount of fluid, along with the glucose, to be removed from the body through the kidneys. These blood pressure drops could lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and falls. This may occur when you shift your body position, such as rising from a sitting or lying position. If you experience this problem, try getting up more slowly. If it persists or if you faint, contact your doctor. Seniors and other individuals who are at risk of experiencing Low Blood Pressure (e.g., dehydration, taking medications for high blood pressure) should discuss with their doctor how Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Driving and using machines: Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially hazardous tasks until you have determined how Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) affects you.
Glucose control: When Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) is taken along with other medications for diabetes, glucose levels may drop too far, causing confusion, cold sweats, cool and pale skin, headache, fast heartbeat, or weakness. Your doctor may suggest decreasing the dose of your other medications when you first start taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin). If you take other medications for diabetes or medications that can decrease blood glucose levels, discuss with your doctor how Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Ketoacidosis: There have been reports that diabetic ketoacidosis has been experienced by people taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) and other similar medications. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that occurs when the body does not have enough insulin to use the glucose in the blood. As a result, the body starts to break down fat for energy. This can cause ketones to build up in the blood, making it more acidic. This is a warning sign that your diabetes is out of control.
If you experience high blood glucose levels, thirst, very Dry Mouth or frequent urination, you may be experiencing early signs of ketoacidosis. Contact your doctor as soon as possible for advice on how to manage this condition.
Kidney function: The effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) depends on kidney function because it increases the amount of glucose eliminated through the kidneys. Over time, Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may cause kidney problems. If you experience signs of kidney problems, such as puffy hands, face, or feet; high blood pressure; unusual muscle cramping; or darkened urine, Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may be affecting how well your kidneys are working. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Liver function: If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) is not recommended for people with severely decreased liver function.
Yeast infections: There is an increased risk of developing genital or vaginal yeast infections when taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) as a result of increased glucose in the urine. This is more likely to occur for uncircumcised males and for people who have a history of yeast infections.
Pregnancy: Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin), it may affect your baby. Breast-feeding is not recommended when you are taking Forxiga (Dapagliflozin).
Children: The safety and effectiveness of Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) have not been established for children less than 18 years of age.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to experience side effects with Forxiga (Dapagliflozin) and may require lower doses.
