Studies have shown that patients on Invokana may be more likely to have an amputation. But these consumers may not have been sufficiently warned of the risk factors for amputation when deciding to take the drug.

In 2014, a study found that 29 million individuals in America have diabetes; another 86 million, a third of the country’s population, have pre-diabetes. To manage the condition, some individuals turn to lifestyle changes including diet and exercise. However, some individuals are also prescribed medication to manage the condition.

Invokana (canagliflozin) is one such medication used in the treatment of type-2 diabetes. The drug works by eliminating blood glucose through the kidneys opposed to other diabetes medications which process glucose out of the body through the liver. However, this new mechanism for eliminating glucose may increase risk factors for amputation in patients.

Invokana Risk Factors

When the kidneys are overworked by processing glucose, patients can reportedly develop a decreased blood volume. When blood volume is decreased, circulatory problems and a decreased ability to fight infection can develop, both of which are risk factors for amputation.

If a patient on Invokana experiences these risk factors for amputation and later develops a diabetic ulcer, they will likely have a harder time healing the wound. If the would cannot heal, it may become infected leading to amputation.

One study has provided evidence to support this theory, finding that patients on Invokana were subject to risk factors for amputation and twice as likely as other patients to experience an amputation of the toes, foot, or lower leg. The results of the study prompted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to require a black box warning for amputation to be added to the drug’s labeling.

Other problems associated with the drug include ketoacidosis and severe infections of the urinary tract. Both conditions can lead to serious damage to the kidneys and require prompt medical attention.

Doctors have taken these risks into account, with some opting to not prescribe the drug to their patients. One doctor, Dr. Steven Nissen, says that he is the amputation risk makes him uncomfortable about prescribing Invokana. Dr. Nissen, who is the Chairman of Cardiovascular Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, has determined through his own calculations that one out of every 69 patients that take Invokana for five years will experience risk factors for amputation.

Amid the news that Invokana may increase amputation risk, some consumers have decided to take legal action against Janssen Pharmaceuticals, the drug’s manufacturer. These consumers have filed lawsuits alleging that Janssen failed to sufficiently test their product before releasing it to the public. Other consumers claim that the company knew or should have known about the risk factors for amputation associated with their product but chose to portray Invokana as safe and effective.

If you or a loved one were prescribed Invokana, experienced risk factors for amputation and later had to have an amputation, you may qualify to take legal action against Janssen. Invokana lawsuits may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, permanent disability, pain and suffering, and more.