The National Health Service (NHS) has issued an urgent warning to patients in the UK taking the medication **dapagliflozin**, commonly known by its brand name **Forxiga**. Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they notice any of three critical symptoms that could indicate serious complications associated with the drug.
Dapagliflozin is primarily prescribed for managing **type 2 diabetes**, but it is also used in the treatment of heart failure and chronic kidney disease. While exact figures for annual prescriptions in the UK are not available, it is one of the more expensive medications, with the NHS spending approximately **£300 million** annually on it in England. Dapagliflozin is also available in combination with other diabetes medications under brand names such as **Xigduo** (dapagliflozin with metformin) and **Qtern** (dapagliflozin with saxagliptin), according to multiple health reports.
The NHS emphasizes on its official website that, like all medications, dapagliflozin can lead to unwanted side effects. Patients experiencing any of the following symptoms should contact their General Practitioner or call 111 for guidance:
– A very dry or sticky mouth, extreme thirst, fatigue, minimal urination, and a rapid heartbeat, which may indicate dehydration.
– A high temperature or sensations of feeling hot, cold, or shivery; painful urination; back or side pain; or blood in urine, potentially signaling a **urinary tract infection (UTI)**.
– Severe pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the groin or perineal area, particularly if accompanied by a high temperature or a general feeling of unwellness, which may indicate a serious infection known as **Fournier’s gangrene**.
Although these severe side effects are classified as “rare,” occurring in fewer than one in 10,000 patients, the NHS notes that more common side effects can affect over one in 100 users. Typical mild side effects include:
– Thrush
– Back pain
– Increased urination
– Dizziness
– Mild skin rash
The NHS advises patients to consult with their doctor or pharmacist if these common side effects persist or worsen.
Patients taking dapagliflozin in conjunction with other diabetes medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas like **gliclazide**, may also experience dangerously low blood sugar levels. Additionally, some users may develop **diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)**, a serious condition that arises when the body has insufficient insulin, leading to harmful levels of ketones in the bloodstream. Symptoms of DKA include:
– Nausea or vomiting
– Intense thirst
– Confusion or unusual fatigue
– Abdominal pain
– Fruity-smelling breath
– Rapid or deep breathing
The NHS advises that these symptoms can develop within 24 hours but may appear more rapidly. Patients are encouraged to learn how to monitor their ketone and blood sugar levels and to understand what steps to take if they experience symptoms of DKA.
In cases of a serious allergic reaction, known as **anaphylaxis**, to dapagliflozin, patients should call emergency services immediately.
As the NHS continues to monitor the safety of dapagliflozin, it is crucial for patients to remain vigilant about their health and to seek medical advice when necessary. The call for immediate action underscores the importance of awareness regarding potential complications associated with this commonly prescribed medication.
