Can I take Farxiga at night?

In this article:

• Understanding Farxiga administration
• Can you take Farxiga at night?
• How to switch from morning to nighttime dosing
• Considerations when taking Farxiga at nighttime

In this article

• Understanding Farxiga administration
• Can you take Farxiga at night?
• How to switch from morning to nighttime dosing
• Considerations when taking Farxiga at nighttime

Farxiga (dapagliflozin) is a medication prescribed to manage Type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure. The active ingredient, dapagliflozin, is part of a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose transport protein 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, also called gliflozins. These medications control blood sugar levels by preventing your kidneys from reabsorbing glucose. Instead, your body gets rid of the glucose through urine, helping to lower your blood sugar levels.

If you’re taking Farxiga or thinking about adding it to your treatment plan, you might be wondering when is the best time of day to take it and whether it will interfere with sleep if you take it at nighttime. This article will discuss whether taking Farxiga at night is recommended and what factors to consider when choosing the best time to take your medication.

Understanding Farxiga administration

Farxiga is available as a tablet and can be taken by mouth. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the specific dose of Farxiga based on your unique health needs, including the condition being treated and how your body responds to the medication.

Can you take Farxiga at night?

The manufacturer of Farxiga does not specify an exact time of day for taking the medication. You could take it in the morning, in the afternoon, or even at night. However, most healthcare providers recommend taking Farxiga in the morning. This recommendation is not based on an absolute requirement but on practical considerations that can help you manage your treatment more effectively.

Why timing matters

Several factors can influence whether your healthcare provider advises you to take Farxiga in the morning or at nighttime, as they want to ensure it works effectively and fits into your daily routine:

• Routine and convenience: Taking your medication at the same time every day helps you develop a routine, making it less likely that you’ll forget a dose. For many people, the morning is the most convenient time because it’s easier to incorporate medication into their daily routine, such as during breakfast. But if your mornings are hectic or you need help remembering medications, you may want to consider taking Farxiga at night. Weighing the pros and cons with your healthcare provider is crucial.
• Side effects: One side effect of Farxiga is that it can make you go to the bathroom more often, especially during the hours right after you take the medicine. This happens because the medication works by helping your kidneys remove excess glucose from your blood, which is then expelled through urine. If you take Farxiga at night, you might wake up more often to go to the bathroom, disrupting your sleep. Disrupted sleep can lead to fatigue, decreased concentration, and other daily issues, impacting overall well-being.
• Blood sugar management: Consistent timing helps maintain stable blood glucose levels throughout the day.  

How to switch from morning to nighttime dosing

If you’re considering switching the time you take Farxiga from morning to nighttime, it’s essential to do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice, support, and guidance based on your health condition, treatment goals, and any potential risks associated with changing the timing of your medication. They may also make the following recommendations:

1. Adjust gradually. Your healthcare provider might suggest gradually shifting the time you take your medication. For example, if you currently take Farxiga at 8 a.m., they may recommend moving the time to 12 p.m., then to 4 p.m., and finally to 8 p.m. over several days or weeks. Shifting gradually helps your body adjust to the new schedule, reducing the risk of abrupt fluctuations in your blood sugar levels.
2. Monitor blood sugar levels. During the transition, it’s essential to monitor your blood sugar levels closely. This will help you and your provider determine whether the new dosing schedule effectively controls your blood sugar or if any adjustments need to be made.
3. Be consistent. Once you’ve switched to taking Farxiga at night, it’s crucial to stick to this schedule consistently. Taking your medication at the same time each day helps maintain stable levels of the drug in your system, which is essential for managing your condition effectively.
4. Follow up with your healthcare provider. After making any changes to your medication routine, let your healthcare provider know how it is going and whether you’ve experienced any adverse effects. They can monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and provide ongoing support.

Considerations when taking Farxiga at nighttime

When adjusting the time you take Farxiga, there are several factors to keep in mind:

• Potential side effects: Increased urination is a common side effect of Farxiga. If you experience significant disruptions to your sleep due to nighttime urination, report this to your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust your treatment plan or provide strategies to manage this side effect.
• Timing of meals: Farxiga can be taken with or without food. However, if you are changing when you take the medication, consider whether your food intake or meal timing might affect how you feel or how the medication works. For instance, some people prefer to take it with a light snack before bed to avoid stomach discomfort.
• Interactions with other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medications and natural supplements. Farxiga can interact with other drugs and supplements, and changing the time you take it might affect these interactions. Your provider can help you understand how to manage these interactions and ensure your medications work effectively together.
• Consistency: Consistency in taking Farxiga simultaneously daily, whether in the morning or at nighttime, is crucial for maintaining effective blood sugar control and overall treatment success.

Although the manufacturer does not specify the best time to take Farxiga, some healthcare providers recommend taking it in the morning. You can take Farxiga at nighttime, though, under the guidance of your healthcare provider. If you prefer to take Farxiga at nighttime instead of in the morning, talk with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s suitable for your treatment plan. They can guide you through the adjustment process and help manage potential issues, such as interactions with other medications and supplements. 

Using a SingleCare prescription discount card may also help reduce the cost of Farxiga, making it more affordable for those who need it. The card provides access to Farxiga coupons you can use at pharmacies across the country, reducing the cost by about $400.  

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