Brenzavvy (Bexagliflozin) is a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels through the elimination of excess glucose in the urine.
While Brenzavvy can be an effective treatment option for many people, it’s important to be aware of the side effects of this medication.
Understanding these side effects can help you make an informed decision about whether Brenzavvy is the right medication for you and allow you to take steps to minimize your risk of experiencing adverse reactions.
| You may also like to read: |
Bexagliflozin Side effects:
Brenzavvy is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, which helps the body eliminate excess glucose through the urine. This mechanism of action can cause some common side effects, including:
Side Effect | Frequency | Description |
| Dehydration | Common | Brenzavvy works by increasing the amount of glucose excreted in the urine, which can also lead to increased urination and fluid loss. This can result in dehydration. |
| Low blood pressure | Common | Brenzavvy can cause a drop in blood pressure as a result of fluid loss via the renal tubules. Patients can develop blackouts, lightheadedness, and fainting episodes. This is more likely to occur in people with pre-existing low blood pressure or who are taking other medications that lower blood pressure. |
| Genital yeast infections | Common | Brenzavvy can increase the risk of developing yeast infections in the genital area, which can cause symptoms like itching, burning, redness, and discharge. Women are more likely to experience this side effect than men. |
| Urinary tract infections | Common | Brenzavvy can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections. Patients may develop symptoms of increased frequency of urination, hesitancy, urgency, painful urination, and the urge to urinate even when the bladder is empty. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis | Uncommon | In rare cases, Brenzavvy can cause a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. DKA in such patients can occur despite the blood glucose being normal. This is because of the relative insulin deficiency. Symptoms of DKA may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and rapid breathing. This side effect is more likely to occur in people who are on insulin, those with type 1 diabetes, or who have a history of diabetic ketoacidosis. |
| Kidney problems | Uncommon | Brenzavvy can affect kidney function and may increase the risk of kidney failure. Symptoms can include decreased urine output, swelling in the legs or feet, fatigue, and nausea. This side effect is more likely to occur in people with pre-existing kidney disease or who are taking other medications that affect kidney function. |
| You may also like to read: |
Less common Bexagliflozin Side effects:
While less common, there are some more serious side effects associated with Brenzavvy. These include:
Side Effect | Frequency | Description |
| Hypersensitivity reactions | Less common | In rare cases, Brenzavvy can cause an allergic reaction, which can include symptoms like skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness. |
| Increased cholesterol levels | Less common | Brenzavvy can increase the levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in the blood. |
| Bladder cancer | Rare | Brenzavvy has been associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer in some studies. However, the overall risk is still considered to be very low. Patients should be asked to report symptoms of blood in urine, frequent and painful urination, and weight loss. |
| Bone fractures | Rare | Brenzavvy may increase the risk of bone fractures, particularly in people who have a history of fractures or who are at risk of osteoporosis. This side effect is thought to occur due to the drug’s effect on bone metabolism. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. |
| Increased risk of amputations | Rare | In rare cases, Brenzavvy may increase the risk of amputations, particularly of the lower limbs. This side effect is more likely to occur in people with pre-existing peripheral artery disease or who have a history of foot ulcers or amputations. Patients should be asked to report symptoms of pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area. |
| You may also like to read: |
Risk factors for Bexagliflozin Side effects:
While anyone can potentially experience side effects while taking Brenzavvy, certain factors can increase your risk.
These include:
- Age:
Older adults may be at higher risk of experiencing side effects due to age-related changes in kidney function.
- Existing medical conditions:
People with a history of kidney disease, heart disease, or low blood pressure may be at increased risk of experiencing side effects while taking Brenzavvy.
- Other medications:
Brenzavvy may interact with other medications, such as diuretics or blood pressure medications, which can increase the risk of side effects.
| You may also like to read: |
Steps to reduce your risk of Bexagliflozin Side Effects:
While taking Brenzavvy, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk of experiencing side effects. These include:
- Stay hydrated:
Since Brenzavvy can cause dehydration, it’s important to drink lots of fluids, especially water, while taking the medication.
- Practice good hygiene:
To reduce the risk of urinary tract infections or genital yeast infections, it’s important to practice good hygiene, such as washing the genital area regularly and urinating after sexual activity.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels:
Regular monitoring of your blood sugar levels can help you catch any potential problems early and adjust your medication or dosage as needed.
- Be aware of the signs of potential side effects:
Knowing the symptoms of potential side effects, such as low blood pressure, kidney problems, or diabetic ketoacidosis, can help you seek medical attention promptly if needed.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions:
Always take Brenzavvy as prescribed by your healthcare provider and do not adjust your dosage or stop taking the medication without first consulting with them.
By following these steps, you can help reduce your risk of experiencing side effects while taking Brenzavvy and ensure that the medication is effectively managing your type 2 diabetes.
| You may also like to read: |
Conclusion:
Brenzavvy is a novel SGLT-2 inhibitor. It is effective in lowering blood glucose. However, one should know of its side effects.
These can include dehydration, low blood pressure, genital yeast infections, urinary tract infections, diabetic ketoacidosis, and kidney problems.