Farxiga has become known as a potential weight-loss drug in recent years. This medication, which was first licensed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has drawn interest for its potential to help people lose extra weight. We will examine the science behind Farxiga as a weight reduction aid in today’s topic, “Farxiga for Weight Loss,” among other things.
Farxiga for Weight Loss
It works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, causing more glucose to be excreted in the urine. This distinctive method provides extra advantages for weight management in addition to aiding in blood sugar regulation.
What is Farxiga?
Dapagliflozin (trade name EU: Forxiga, U.S.: Farxiga) has been approved in Germany since November 2012 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults who can’t reduce their blood sugar levels enough through diet and exercise alone. Since March 2019, it has also been available for adults with type 1 diabetes who are overweight.
Dapagliflozin is a treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes who don’t tolerate the standard medication metformin. Dapagliflozin may also be used in addition to other blood-sugar-lowering drugs (including insulin) if they don’t provide adequate control of blood sugar levels.
People with type 1 diabetes may use dapagliflozin in addition to insulin if their BMI is above 27 kg/m² and if insulin alone can’t lower blood sugar levels enough.
Sources : NIH
Farxiga for Weight Loss – Mechanisms of Action
Dapagliflozin, commonly known as farxiga, is a member of the group of drugs known as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It was initially made to control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Farxiga principally encourages weight loss by making it easier for extra calories to be excreted through urine as glucose. The medicine causes the body to burn more fat for energy by blocking the reabsorption of glucose, which reduces overall body weight.
Additionally, it encourages a slight decrease in appetite, which helps create the calorie deficit needed for weight loss.
✓ In one study patients with type 2 diabetes that performed regular exercise, had normal renal function and were receiving metformin were more likely to have clinically meaningful weight loss after one year treatment with Farxiga (dapagliflozin).
✓ In another study with 50 T2DM patients (72% male) with a mean age of 56.1 years, mean BMI of 27.1 kg/m2 and mean HbA1c of 7.9%. HbA1c, body weight, and BMI were significantly decreased in both treatment groups, and the HbA1c decrease was not significantly different between groups.
Dapagliflozin treatment significantly decreased body weight and total fat mass without affecting skeletal muscle mass.
✓ One study also says that Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) resulted in induction of glycosuria up to 20 to 85 g/day, it has been calculated that its use induces a caloric deficit at 80 to 340 kcal/day.
This has been tested in patients with T2D in which it induces a weight loss of 2 to 3 kg and in combination with metformin even a weight loss up to 5.07 kg (-6.21 to 3.93 kg) without regain (at least for 2 years).
NOTE : It’s important to note that Farxiga is not specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other regulatory authorities for weight loss alone.
Side Effects of Farxiga
Although the drug Farxiga (dapagliflozin) can be useful for weight loss, it’s crucial to be aware of any possible negative effects.
Farxiga, like any medication, includes the potential for negative side effects, therefore it’s important to talk about these with a medical expert before beginning therapy. The following are a few of the side effects of Farxiga:
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs):
Farxiga acts by raising the excretion of glucose in the urine, which may foster the growth of bacteria. Urinary tract infections may become more likely as a result of this.
A burning feeling when urinating, frequent urination, cloudy or strongly smelling urine, and abdominal pain are all signs of a UTI. If you have these symptoms, it’s critical to get medical help.
2. Increased Urination:
Due to the way farxiga works, more urine is produced, which could lead to more frequent urination. This adverse effect typically gets better with time and can be controlled by drinking enough water.
3. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar):
In spite of the fact that Farxiga is not commonly linked to hypoglycemia, it can happen when used with other drugs that drop blood sugar, like insulin or sulfonylureas.
Farxiga users who also take these drugs should keep a close eye on their blood sugar levels and be aware of the symptoms and signs of hypoglycemia.
4. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance:
Farxiga can increase urine production, which can result in dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities such low sodium, potassium, or magnesium levels.
Maintaining a sufficient fluid intake is crucial, as is being aware of any indicators of dehydration, such as lightheadedness, a dry mouth, or decreased urine output. The need for regular electrolyte level monitoring may arise.
5. Genital Infections:
Some people using Farxiga may get urinary tract infections or genital yeast infections. Itching, burning, redness, or strange discharge are possible symptoms. It is crucial to see a doctor for the right kind of care if these symptoms appear.
NOTE : It is crucial to note that Farxiga is not recommended for individuals and should avoid using Farxiga:
- Type 1 diabetes patients.*
- Individuals with a history of diabetic Ketoacidosis.
- Pregnant women.
- Breastfeeding women.
It is crucial to go over potential side effects and individual risk factors with a healthcare provider as with any medicine. They can provide you tailored advice, keep track of your development, and resolve any issues that could come up throughout your therapy.
FAQ
Q: How does Farxiga help with weight loss?
A: Farxiga works by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, which causes a rise in the amount of glucose excreted in the urine. Some people may experience a small weight reduction as a result of this procedure, which also lowers blood sugar levels.
Q: Who can take Farxiga in terms of weight loss?
A: Adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m² or greater who also have at least one weight-related ailment, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol, are permitted to take Farxiga for weight loss
Q: Is Farxiga a stand-alone drug for weight loss?
A: Farxiga is not intended to be used alone to help people lose weight. It is primarily recommended for people with type 2 diabetes who also need assistance with weight management. However, it might be recommended off-label for weight loss in some people by medical practitioners.
Q: How effective is Farxiga for weight loss?
A: Clinical trials using the drug Farxiga showed only minor weight loss effects. Individual differences in weight loss can exist, although studies have demonstrated an average weight loss of about 2-3% in comparison to placebo.
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Conclusion
Farxiga, a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes, has demonstrated encouraging results in helping with weight loss. It is a member of the pharmacological class known as SGLT2 inhibitors and reduces calorie intake while raising urine glucose excretion.
While considering Farxiga for Weight Loss it’s important to note that, Farxiga is not specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other regulatory authorities for weight loss alone.
When combined with lifestyle modifications, the effect of weight loss is moderate but considerable. It enhances metabolic health and has positive effects on blood pressure and insulin sensitivity.
In light of probable side effects and drug interactions, farxiga should only be used under medical supervision. Although managing diabetes is its main goal, losing weight has the additional benefit of promoting general health and wellbeing.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!