What are the precautions for taking dapagliflozin tablets?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, dapagliflozin tablets are used as a glucose-lowering and cardiovascular protective agent. Key considerations include monitoring blood glucose levels, preventing urinary and genital infections, paying attention to changes in blood volume, regular kidney function assessments, and avoiding drug interactions. Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can enhance treatment efficacy and reduce medication-related risks.

Under normal circumstances, dapagliflozin tablets are used as a glucose-lowering and cardiovascular protective agent. Key considerations include monitoring blood glucose levels, preventing urogenital infections, paying attention to blood volume changes, regular kidney function monitoring, and avoiding drug interactions. Specific details are as follows:

1. Monitor blood glucose levels: During the initial treatment phase and when adjusting dosage, fasting and postprandial blood glucose should be regularly monitored to avoid hypoglycemia caused by the drug's effects. The risk of hypoglycemia increases when dapagliflozin is used in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogues; therefore, dosage adjustments should be made under medical supervision based on blood glucose readings.

2. Prevent urogenital infections: Dapagliflozin works by increasing urinary glucose excretion, which may alter the internal environment of the urogenital tract and increase the risk of bacterial growth. Good personal hygiene should be maintained during treatment, including frequent changing of clothes. If symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, or itching occur, prompt medical attention is required.

3. Monitor blood volume status: Some patients may experience reduced blood volume after taking the medication, manifesting as dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, or thirst. Elderly patients or those using diuretics are at higher risk. Adequate fluid intake should be maintained during treatment, and excessive water restriction or intense physical activity that could lead to dehydration should be avoided.

4. Regular kidney function monitoring: The drug is primarily excreted through the kidneys. Long-term use requires periodic assessment of renal function indicators, such as glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Dosage regimens should be adjusted if kidney function declines, and the drug may need to be discontinued in cases of severe renal impairment to prevent further burden on the kidneys.

5. Avoid drug interactions: Dapagliflozin may interact with certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and lithium, potentially affecting efficacy or increasing the risk of adverse reactions. Patients should inform their doctor about all medications currently being used and must not self-administer additional drugs without medical advice.

Medication should be taken strictly according to medical instructions—do not adjust the dose or discontinue treatment without authorization. Maintain a regular diet and engage in moderate exercise, adopting a healthy lifestyle to enhance therapeutic outcomes and reduce medication-related risks.

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