What Is Invokana?
Invokana is a prescription drug that contains only one active ingredient: canagliflozin. Belonging to a group of medications called sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors, it can be taken to help reduce blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes. Currently, Invokana is only available as a brand-name medication. You cannot purchase it in the generic form. The drug comes as a tablet that can be taken orally. There are two strength options available: 100 milligrams and 300 milligrams. [1]
How Invokana Works
In people with type 2 diabetes, the body does not react to insulin, which moves sugar into the cells from the blood for energy. This increases the levels of blood sugar over time and eventually leads to many health problems. Invokana is a type of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2. It works by preventing the absorption of sugar into the body and instead making sugar leave the body through urination. As a result, the drug may help reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Invokana typically begins to work immediately after you take in. However, it is most effective around 1 to 2 hours after this point. [2]
