Johnson & Johnson is facing an increasing multidistrict litigation (MDL), consisting of similar claims alleging similar Invokana effects on kidneys.

One of the most recent claims comes from a New York man, alleging serious Invokana effects on kidneys including renal failure. Similar to other plaintiffs in this growing MDL, the claimant had been prescribed the medication to treat type-2 diabetes and was not aware of any risks associated with Invokana,  including effects on kidneys.

Invokana is primarily prescribed to treat type-2 diabetes, and is meant to help manage blood sugar levels when combined with diet and exercise.

Plaintiff Calixto D. had reportedly began taking Invokana in August 2014, after reviewing different diabetic treatment options with his physician. At all times relevant, Calixto had followed all prescription instructions and medical advice when taking Invokana.

Even with this diligence, Calixto soon developed alleged Invokana effects on kidneys and has had to contend with the long term health complications. According to his Invokana lawsuit, Calixto reportedly developed chronic kidney disease and ischemic stroke due to the type-2 diabetes medication.

Calixto has had to contend with his compounded condition, and has since filed legal action alleging Johnson & Johnson and Janssen either knew or should have known about the potential Invokana effects on kidneys.

Overview of Invokana Effects on Kidneys

Invokana (canagliflozin) was approved by the FDA to treat type-2 diabetes, and was one of the first sodium-glucose contransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors released on the market. These medications are designed to help lower blood sugar levels in adult patients, by signaling the kidneys to expel excess sugar through urination.

This prevents blood sugar levels from getting too high, preventing diabetic attacks or insulin shortages. However SGLT2 inhibitors have been linked to serious kidney complications, due to the drugs directly interacting with the kidneys.

The injuries associated with these medications can include chronic kidney damage, kidney or renal failure, and diabetic ketoacidosis. Each of these injuries can be linked to kidney filtration inefficiencies, along with potential insulin shortage.

Kidneys are the organs responsible for filtering toxins out of the body, while insulin is responsible for metabolizing sugar and energy. Given the popularity of SGLT2 inhibitors, the alleged Invokana effects on kidneys is very concerning to the public.

In May 2015, the FDA gave an official warning about Invokana diabetic ketoacidosis, an injury commonly linked to kidney problems. The agency stated that it had received reports of 20 cases of diabetic ketoacidosis, which allegedly were caused by SGLT2 inhibitors.

Each of these patients required hospitalization for their injuries, with the most severe cases linked to kidney failure. Even though these are very serious side effects, Johnson & Johnson allegedly failed to disclose information regarding potential Invokana effects on kidneys to patients.

Calixto is filing the Invokana lawsuit in MDL No. 2750, where it will stand alongside other claims alleging similar Invokana effects on kidneys. Calixto states he never would have opted for the medication if he had known the risks associated with Invokana.

This Invokana Lawsuit is Case No. 3:17-cv-05434-BRM-LHG, in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.