Dapagliflozin (10 mg tablets)

Dapagliflozin is an oral prescription medication in the SGLT2 (sodium-glucose co-transporter 2) inhibitor class. It works in the kidneys by blocking glucose reabsorption, causing the kidneys to excrete excess glucose in the urine, thereby lowering blood sugar.

Uses (Indications):

Dapagliflozin is approved for adults to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (as an adjunct to diet and exercise). It is not used for type 1 diabetes. In addition to blood sugar control, dapagliflozin has cardiovascular and renal benefits. It is indicated to reduce the risk of heart failure hospitalization in adults with type 2 diabetes and existing cardiovascular disease or risk factors. It is also approved for patients with heart failure (with or without diabetes) to lower the risk of death and hospitalization due to heart failure, and for patients with chronic kidney disease to slow the progression of kidney damage and reduce cardiovascular risk. These indications reflect recent clinical trial findings and regulatory approvals. (For example, the official label states: “Dapagliflozin tablets is a ... inhibitor indicated to reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus…” and as “an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.”

Dosage and administration:

The usual dose is 10 mg once daily by mouth. The tablet may be taken with or without food, typically at the same time each day. It is important to follow the prescribing doctor’s instructions. Do not take more or less than directed. The dose should not exceed 10 mg daily. The patient information states: “Take dapagliflozin exactly as directed. Take dapagliflozin at around the same time every day”. The medication comes in 5 mg and 10 mg tablets, but 10 mg is a common dosage for adults. (Any changes in dose – for example, if kidney function declines – should be managed by a healthcare provider.)

Common Side Effects:

As with other SGLT2 inhibitors, dapagliflozin can cause increased urination and related infections. The most frequently reported adverse effects (≥5% of patients) are genital yeast infections (especially in women) and urinary tract infections (UTIs), as well as nasopharyngitis or common cold symptoms. Patients may notice a stronger urge to urinate or more frequent urination (including overnight urination) due to the increased glucose and fluid excretion. Other relatively common side effects include:

• Urinary symptoms: painful or frequent urination, burning on urination (signs of UTI).
• Genital symptoms: itching, discharge, redness or swelling of the genitals, which may indicate a yeast infection (vaginal or penile).
• Dehydration signs: dry mouth, increased thirst, dry skin, reduced sweating (especially if fluid intake is low).
• General: sore throat, nasal congestion (runny/stuffy nose), headache, back or limb pain, constipation.

Serious side effects and warnings:

Although many “side effects” are mild or moderate, certain conditions require prompt medical attention. The official prescribing information highlights several serious risks. These include:

• Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): Although rare in type 2 diabetes, dapagliflozin can precipitate DKA (a dangerous buildup of acids called ketones) even if blood sugar is not extremely high. Patients are advised to report symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or rapid breathing immediately, as the label instructs monitoring ketones and discontinuing the drug if DKA is suspected.
• Volume depletion and hypotension: Because the drug causes osmotic diuresis (fluid loss with glucose), patients (especially the elderly or those on diuretics or on a low-salt diet) can become dehydrated or have low blood pressure. Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness can occur, particularly when standing. Providers should assess and correct fluid status before starting therapy and monitor for signs of dehydration during therapy.
• Severe urinary infections: Dapagliflozin can lead to serious urinary tract infections, such as pyelonephritis and urosepsis. Patients should be watched for fever, painful urination, or back/side pain. Prompt antibiotic treatment may be needed if a UTI develops.
• Fournier’s gangrene: A rare but life-threatening infection of the genital/perineal area (necrotizing fasciitis) has been reported with SGLT2 inhibitors. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, or tenderness in the genital area. This requires immediate medical care.
• Hypersensitivity: Any history of a serious allergic reaction to dapagliflozin or its ingredients (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) is a contraindication. If an allergic reaction occurs, the drug should be stopped.

Contraindications and precautions: Before taking dapagliflozin, patients should inform their doctor of all medical conditions. Key precautions include:

• Kidney function: Dapagliflozin is not recommended for glycemic control if kidney function is seriously reduced (eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m²). (Poor kidney function reduces the drug’s effectiveness and may increase side effects.)
• Type 1 diabetes: It is not indicated for people with type 1 diabetes (it has not been shown to be safe/effective in T1DM).
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: This medicine is generally avoided in pregnant or nursing women. Patients are told not to breastfeed while taking dapagliflozin and to inform their doctor if they become pregnant. The risks/benefits must be clearly weighed by a healthcare provider.
• Other medications and conditions: Tell your doctor about other drugs you take (especially diuretics, blood pressure medicines, insulin or sulfonylureas). Dapagliflozin can increase the risk of low blood pressure or dehydration if combined with diuretics. If used with insulin or insulin secretagogues (sulfonylureas), the insulin dose may need to be lowered to avoid hypoglycemia. Also inform your doctor of any bladder infection or recurrent UTI history.
• Liver disease / dehydration risk: Severe liver impairment or conditions that predispose to dehydration should be managed cautiously.

Administrative notes: Dapagliflozin is taken once daily, typically as a 10 mg tablet. According to patient literature, “Take dapagliflozin at around the same time every day”. If a dose is missed, one should follow the doctor’s or pharmacist’s guidance (usually, do not double the next dose). It is usually supplied as oral film-coated tablets (10 mg strength, often in bottles of 30). Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and children.

Disclaimer and advice: This summary is for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice. Dapagliflozin is a prescription drug – use it only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Always read the official patient leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist with questions. Report any unusual symptoms to a doctor promptly. (The prescribing information and MedlinePlus resources were used to compile this overview.