If you have type 2 diabetes, your doctor might suggest Invokana (canagliflozin) as a treatment option for you.

Invokana is a prescription medication that’s used in adults with type 2 diabetes to:

Invokana belongs to a group of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. The drug comes as a tablet that you take by mouth.

This article describes the dosages of Invokana, including its strengths and how to take the drug. To learn more about Invokana, including details about its uses, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers Invokana’s standard dosages, which are provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But when using Invokana, always take the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

Below is information about Invokana’s recommended dosage. Your doctor may change your dosage depending on your situation.

What is Invokana’s form?

Invokana comes as a tablet that’s taken by mouth.

What strengths does Invokana come in?

Invokana is available in two strengths:

  • 100 milligrams (mg)
  • 300 mg

What are the standard dosages of Invokana?

Invokana is dosed based on how well your kidneys are working. This is determined by a blood test.

Typically, your doctor will start you taking a low dosage. Then, they’ll adjust your dosage over time to reach the right amount for you.

There’s no well-established maximum dose of Invokana for its approved uses. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for all uses

Invokana’s recommended dosage is the same for each of its approved uses. The starting dose is 100 mg once per day, taken before your first meal.

If the starting dosage isn’t effective enough, your doctor might increase your dosage to 300 mg per day. Your dosage can be increased as long as your kidney function is at a certain level, and you aren’t having bothersome or severe side effects.

Is Invokana taken long term?

Yes, Invokana is typically taken as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Invokana is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.

Dosage adjustments

Your doctor might adjust your Invokana starting dosage depending on:

  • Your kidney function. Your doctor likely won’t increase your dosage above 100 mg per day if you have kidney problems. And Invokana may not be prescribed for you if your kidney function is below a certain level.
  • Whether you’re taking certain other medications that can affect how Invokana works in your body. Examples include rifampin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and ritonavir.

Before you start Invokana, make sure to tell your doctor about your health history and all the medications you’re taking.

The dosage of Invokana you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:

  • the type and severity of the condition you’re taking Invokana to treat
  • your age
  • how you respond to Invokana (such as any side effects you have)
  • other conditions you may have

Your doctor may also adjust your dosage if you’re taking certain other drugs or if you have kidney problems. See “Dosage adjustments” just above under “What is Invokana’s dosage?” for details.

Invokana is a tablet that you take by mouth once per day. You should take it at about the same time each day.

It’s recommended that you take Invokana before your first meal. But the drug can be taken with or without food.

For information on Invokana expiration, storage, and disposal, see this article.

If you miss a dose of Invokana, take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at your usual time.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Invokana on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

Do not take more Invokana than your doctor prescribes. Taking more than this can lead to serious side effects.

What to do in case you take too much Invokana

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Invokana. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

The sections above describe the standard dosages provided by the drug manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Invokana for you, they will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Invokana without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Invokana exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

  • How will my Invokana dosage be adjusted if I have kidney problems?
  • Will my other medications affect my dosage of Invokana?
  • What side effects are possible with Invokana?

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Q:

I’m over 65 years old. Will I respond differently to Invokana than a younger person?

Anonymous

A:

Possibly. In studies, people ages 65 years and older were more likely to have certain side effects of Invokana than younger people. These included low blood pressure, dizziness, shortness of breath, and dehydration (low fluid level).

The risk of these side effects was higher in people taking a 300-milligram dose of Invokana and in people ages 75 years and older.

Also, Invokana was less effective at lowering A1C levels in people ages 65 years and older. A1C is a measure of blood sugar levels over the past 3 months.

Your doctor may adjust your Invokana dosage depending on your age or on side effects you have. If you have questions about this, your doctor can give you more information.

Dena Westphalen, PharmDAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.