Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is a prescription medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and heart failure. Similar to other diabetes drugs like Ozempic and metformin, Farxiga has been found to induce weight loss in some individuals.
But how much weight can you realistically lose with Farxiga? And is it a suitable option for weight management? Keep reading as we delve into whether Farxiga is effective for weight loss, along with its risks and benefits.
What is Farxiga?
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is an FDA-approved medication that, when used alongside diet and exercise, helps manage type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels. It is also approved to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure. Due to its potential for promoting weight loss in people with diabetes, Farxiga may be prescribed off-label for weight management.
Farxiga is a brand-name drug with no generic version currently available. It comes in oral tablet form, available in two dosages: 5 milligrams (mg) and 10 mg, taken daily with or without food. Typically, the 5 mg dosage is prescribed for type 2 diabetes, while the 10 mg dosage is used for treating CKD and heart failure. Depending on the condition being treated, healthcare providers may recommend combining Farxiga with other medications and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
Dapagliflozin, the active ingredient in Farxiga, is also available in combination medications for diabetes treatment, such as Qtern (dapagliflozin/saxagliptin) and Xigduo XR (dapagliflozin/metformin).
Does Farxiga Cause Weight Loss?
Yes, Farxiga can lead to weight loss, typically between 4–7 pounds. In a study involving individuals with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, participants lost an average of 6 pounds over one year. Some individuals may experience weight loss of 5% or more while taking Farxiga.
Although Farxiga does promote weight loss, its effects are generally less pronounced compared to other weight loss medications and some diabetes drugs like Ozempic. Nonetheless, the weight loss achieved with Farxiga can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Research also suggests that combining Farxiga with other diabetes medications can enhance weight loss. For example:
With glimepiride: Farxiga leads to a weight loss of 3–5 pounds.
With metformin: Farxiga results in a weight loss of 7–10 pounds. One study found that participants continued to see improvements in their body weight, physical health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life at six months, one year, and two years after starting treatment.
How Much Weight Loss Does Farxiga Cause?
In clinical studies, Farxiga resulted in nearly 5 pounds of weight loss after 24 weeks (around 6 months) when used with metformin. Real-world data suggests that weight loss might be higher, approximately 10 pounds over 6 months, when Farxiga is combined with other diabetes medications like metformin.
However, these figures are averages. Some individuals may lose more or less weight while taking Farxiga, and it's possible that some may not experience any weight changes at all. Weight fluctuations depend on various factors, including diet, exercise, and other medications.
How Does Farxiga Cause Weight Loss?
Farxiga aids weight loss by reducing body fat, including abdominal fat around the waist. Clinical studies show that fat loss accounts for about two-thirds of the total weight loss seen in participants taking Farxiga. The medication may also enhance metabolism and improve the body's ability to process and burn fat, further supporting weight loss.
Farxiga is part of the sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors class. These drugs treat type 2 diabetes by limiting the amount of sugar absorbed by the kidneys and increasing the sugar excreted through urine. This process lowers blood glucose levels, which benefits people with type 2 diabetes and those seeking weight loss. Farxiga removes about 75 grams of glucose from the bloodstream daily, equating to around 300 calories.
While Farxiga mainly targets fat loss, it can also lead to muscle loss, similar to other weight loss methods. To avoid muscle loss while taking Farxiga, consult your healthcare provider about increasing protein intake and incorporating strength training into your routine. Building and maintaining muscle mass can boost metabolism, leading to more sustained weight loss, and improve muscle function, strength, mobility, and overall quality of life for those with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other health conditions.
How Soon Will Weight Loss Start?
Weight loss can begin as early as 3 days after starting Farxiga, primarily due to fluid loss. Significant fat loss, however, typically becomes noticeable within the first 6 months.
How Fast Can I Lose Weight with Farxiga?
The rate of weight loss varies for each individual, making it difficult to predict exactly how fast you will lose weight. However, research provides some insights:
2013 Study: A review of several clinical trials found that SGLT2 inhibitors, including Farxiga, resulted in an average weight loss of about 4 pounds.
2014 Study on Farxiga and Metformin: Participants who took Farxiga and metformin for six months experienced more weight loss compared to those on a placebo. The study monitored progress for 18 months and found ongoing weight loss and improved quality of life at 24 weeks (six months), 50 weeks (one year), and 102 weeks (almost two years).
2014 Study on Farxiga and Other Diabetes Medications: Over a 48-week period (11 months), people taking Farxiga with other diabetes medications like Amaryl (glimepiride) lost an average of 4 pounds, depending on the Farxiga dose.
2019 Review of Studies: This review found that people taking metformin plus Farxiga for six months lost about 5 pounds and reduced their waist measurements and fat mass. Initial weight loss was faster, likely due to fluid loss, followed by a more gradual decline. These losses were maintained over 102 weeks (almost two years). Additionally, people with heart failure taking Farxiga, with or without other medications, lost about 6 pounds.
2019 Review of SGLT2 Inhibitors: This review indicated that people generally lose about 5 to 7 pounds when taking an SGLT2 inhibitor. One study noted that participants lost about 10 pounds after six months before weight loss plateaued.
Summary
While initial weight loss with Farxiga may occur rapidly due to fluid loss, more significant fat loss tends to happen over a longer period, typically becoming evident within the first 6 months of treatment.
How Long Does Farxiga Take to Work?
Weight loss typically begins shortly after starting Farxiga, with most people noticing a reduction in body weight within the first 2–4 weeks, much of which can be attributed to water loss. Some individuals may observe this water weight drop as early as the third day. Due to Farxiga’s fluid-reducing effects, it’s crucial to maintain adequate hydration to prevent dehydration.
Following the initial water weight loss, Farxiga continues to promote weight loss at a slower rate, primarily affecting body fat and lean muscle mass. One study found that participants lost nearly 6 pounds within 12 weeks of starting Farxiga, with about 4.5 pounds of that coming from body fat.
Although the rate of weight loss may decrease, it remains stable even six months after beginning treatment, according to research. This is significant because weight loss from lifestyle changes alone often plateaus around the six-month mark, and in some cases, weight gain may occur. Farxiga can help patients maintain weight loss beyond this period.
When combined with other medications like metformin, Farxiga can accelerate weight loss. Clinical trials showed that individuals taking Farxiga and metformin lost nearly 6 pounds within three months, over 9 pounds within six months, and up to 10 pounds total over time.
Farxiga's Effects on Other Conditions
Type 2 Diabetes: Farxiga starts lowering blood sugar levels within hours of the first dose. While this has an immediate impact on diabetes management, it may take months for changes to reflect in HbA1c levels, which represent average blood sugar over the previous three months.
Heart Failure: Improvements in symptoms, reduced hospitalizations, and enhanced well-being were reported within two weeks of starting Farxiga, with benefits sustained at 1- and 2-year follow-ups.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Benefits for CKD patients can take longer to manifest. In a study involving individuals with CKD and/or diabetes, Farxiga significantly lowered the risk of reduced kidney function, end-stage kidney disease, and kidney or cardiovascular-related mortality. These improvements were noticeable within the first year and continued to progress over the next 2.4 years.
Is Farxiga Safe?
Yes, Farxiga is considered safe, but like all prescription medications, it can cause side effects, some of which may be serious. Certain individuals, including older adults, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with kidney issues, may have a higher risk of experiencing these side effects.
Common Side Effects of Farxiga
The most common side effects include:
- Genital infections
- Cold-like symptoms
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Back pain
- Increased urination
- Nausea
- Flu
- High cholesterol
- Constipation
- Discomfort while urinating
- Pain in arms or legs
UTIs and genital tract infections are more prevalent with SGLT2 inhibitors like Farxiga. Women are more than twice as likely to develop a genital infection compared to men, especially if they have a history of such infections.
Dehydration
Farxiga can cause increased urination, leading to dehydration. Older adults, those on low-salt diets, individuals taking diuretics, or those with kidney problems are more prone to dehydration while on Farxiga. Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, faintness, lightheadedness, or weakness, particularly when standing. It's important to stay well-hydrated while taking this medication. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on fluid intake.
Serious Side Effects of Farxiga
Serious side effects include:
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening diabetes complication)
- Volume depletion (low sodium and water levels)
- Urosepsis (a blood infection from the urinary tract)
- Pyelonephritis (a serious kidney infection)
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Fournier’s gangrene (a severe infection of the genital area)
- Allergic reactions
If you experience symptoms such as frequent, urgent, burning, or painful urination; discolored or foul-smelling urine; fever; nausea or vomiting; dry mouth or skin; decreased urine output; or unusual pain or swelling, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Who Should Avoid Farxiga?
Farxiga is not recommended for certain groups, including children and individuals who:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have type 1 diabetes
- Have polycystic kidney disease
- Have recently received immunosuppressive therapy for kidney disease
- Have an estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) below 45%
- Are allergic to dapagliflozin or any inactive ingredients in Farxiga
- Precautions Before Taking Farxiga
Before starting Farxiga, inform your healthcare provider about your medical history and all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Also, disclose if you:
- Frequently consume alcohol
- Are on a special diet
- Plan to undergo surgery
Your healthcare provider might adjust your treatment plan or recommend an alternative medication based on your health history and goals.
Farxiga can be effective for managing type 2 diabetes, kidney disease, and heart failure, and it may aid in weight loss, typically up to 7 pounds or more. To determine if Farxiga is right for you, consult with your healthcare provider.
Does Farxiga Help Burn Fat?
Yes, Farxiga can help burn fat by altering your metabolism and promoting the conversion of stored fat into energy. It also aids the liver in breaking down fats, leading to a reduction in body fat. However, weight loss can also result in the loss of lean body mass (muscle), which increases the risk of certain health complications, like injury. For tips on maintaining muscle while losing weight, you can refer to resources on keeping muscles and bones strong during weight loss.
How Rapid is Weight Loss with Farxiga?
Weight loss with Farxiga can begin as soon as 3 days after starting the medication, though initial weight loss is often due to fluid loss ("water weight"). Fat loss typically starts around 6 weeks into treatment and can continue for about 6 months.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends a weight loss of at least 5% for most people with Type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese. In one study, up to one-third of participants taking Farxiga with metformin achieved this goal after a year. Even a modest weight loss of 3% can improve blood glucose levels and reduce heart disease risk.
Does Farxiga Cause Weight Gain?
Generally, Farxiga does not cause weight gain for most people. However, a study of over 600 participants found that some experienced weight gain while taking Farxiga. This was a short-term study, and not all participants were overweight initially. Most participants lost weight, indicating that further research is needed to understand who might be at higher risk for weight gain with Farxiga.
Weight gain can result from various factors, including genetics, diet, exercise habits, and other medications like insulin. If you notice weight gain while taking Farxiga, consult your diabetes care team to determine the cause and find ways to manage your weight.
Tips on How to Save on Farxiga
There are several ways to save on Farxiga, which is available as a brand-name medication and an authorized generic. GoodRx can help you navigate patient assistance programs and copay savings cards:
- Copay Savings Card: If you have commercial insurance, you may be eligible to pay as little as $0 a month for brand-name Farxiga using a manufacturer's savings card.
- Patient Assistance Programs: If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may qualify for a patient assistance program that offers Farxiga at no cost.
The Bottom Line
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and certain types of heart failure. In clinical trials, Farxiga resulted in an average weight loss of 5 pounds, though real-world data suggests that more significant weight loss is possible.
Some people may start losing weight within the first few days of taking Farxiga, with continued weight loss over the first 6 months. Farxiga typically does not cause weight gain, but other factors such as genetics and concurrent medications can influence weight changes.
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