Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers

Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Vaccine Injuries

Invokana (generic name: canagliflozin) is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors. These medications cause the kidneys to excrete more glucose than urine to reduce blood sugar.

Doctors often prescribe Invokana to help manage adult levels of blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It may also reduce the risk of heart-related hospitalizations. However, despite its benefits, Invokana has come under scrutiny due to serious side effects—most notably, kidney injuries.

FDA Warnings: What You Need to Know

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple warnings about Invokana and other drugs in its class. In 2016, the FDA strengthened its stance after reviewing dozens of confirmed cases of kidney injury linked to this medication.

The FDA has received reports of acute kidney injury requiring hospitalization and dialysis in patients treated with canagliflozin. — U.S. Food & Drug Administration, Drug Safety Communication.

Between March 2013 and October 2015, the agency found 101 cases of acute renal damage that were confirmed among Invokana users. In some situations, patients required dialysis or suffered lasting kidney problems.

Between March 2013 and October 2015, the FDA identified 101 confirmable cases of acute kidney injury, some resulting in death or permanent impairment. — FDA.gov

Consequently, the FDA ordered changes to the medication’s warning labels. These updates highlight kidney risks and urge doctors to monitor patients closely.

Health Risks Linked to Invokana

Kidney problems are among the most serious risks tied to Invokana. The drug can affect how much water and salt the kidneys retain, which may cause reduced blood flow and dehydration—two primary triggers of acute kidney injury.

Other possible side effects include:

  • Kidney failure
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Increased risk of leg and foot amputations (added to label in 2017)

Invokana belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors, which work by helping kidneys remove glucose through the urine—this can increase dehydration and strain kidney function.

Common signs of kidney damage include swelling in the legs or feet, decreased urine output, fatigue, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Invokana or Invokamet, seek medical care right away.

Legal Action and Lawsuits: What Has Happened So Far

Patients across the country began filing lawsuits after learning about the risks linked to Invokana. These lawsuits claimed that the manufacturer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals (a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson), failed to warn doctors and users about the potential for kidney damage and other side effects.

The federal court system consolidated these cases into multidistrict litigation (MDL 2750), which was held in New Jersey. Many of the claims have since reached confidential settlements.

While past outcomes vary, these cases focused on:

  • Failure to warn
  • Defective design
  • Misrepresentation of safety data
  • Manufacturer negligence

Who Can File an Invokana Lawsuit?

You may be eligible to file a defective drug claim if:

  • You took Invokana, Invokamet, or other canagliflozin-based medications
  • You were diagnosed with acute kidney injury, kidney failure, or required dialysis
  • You experienced a related complication that required hospitalization

Oklahoma law generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a product liability lawsuit. — Statute of Limitations Reference, Title 12 OK Stat §12-95

Because time limits can vary, it’s essential to Consult a drug injury attorney right away.

Table: FDA Safety Warnings Timeline for Invokana

Date

FDA Action

Description

May 2015Initial WarningRisk of ketoacidosis issued
Dec 2015Label ChangeAcute kidney injury warning added
June 2016Drug Safety CommunicationStronger kidney warnings released
May 2017Black Box WarningRisk of lower limb amputation added
OngoingMonitoringContinued adverse event tracking by FDA

How Graves McLain Injury Lawyers Supports Drug Injury Victims

Graves McLain Injury Lawyers in Tulsa have experience handling defective drug claims, including those involving major pharmaceutical companies. When representing a drug injury

case, the firm may:

  • Collect and review your medical records
  • Consult medical experts
  • Investigate the drug’s approval, marketing, and adverse effects
  • Handle all filings and negotiations with manufacturers or insurers

If you’re unsure whether you have a claim, a knowledgeable lawyer may help you understand your rights and the next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Invokana, and why is it prescribed?

Invokana is a type 2 diabetes medication (SGLT2 inhibitor) used to control blood sugar. It also reduces the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure in some patients.

How does Invokana cause kidney injuries?

It reduces blood sugar by increasing glucose excretion through urine, which may also cause dehydration and stress in the kidneys, leading to acute injury.

What are the signs of kidney damage from Invokana?

Symptoms may include swelling in the legs, reduced urination, fatigue, or confusion. If these occur, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Has anyone won a lawsuit over Invokana’s injuries?

Several claims were consolidated in a federal MDL, leading to confidential settlements. The outcome of each case depends on individual facts and proof.

Am I eligible for compensation if I took Invokana and had kidney issues?

You may be eligible if you took Invokana and suffered kidney failure, hospitalization, or other serious health effects. A defective drug attorney can help review your case.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Oklahoma?

The general time limit is two years from the date you knew (or should’ve known) about the injury, although this may change according to specifics.

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Conclusion: What You Should Know Going Forward

Invokana, while effective for managing type 2 diabetes, has been connected to severe kidney damage and other health complications. The FDA has strengthened warnings and required label updates, and patients have pursued legal action due to the drug’s potential risks

If you or someone you love experienced health problems after taking Invokana, you may be entitled to seek legal guidance. Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is familiar with defective drug claims and can help you navigate this complex area of law.

When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.

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