Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Invokamet (canagliflozin/metformin) and Glucovance (glyburide/metformin) are both combination medications used to manage Type 2 diabetes, but they have some key differences. Invokamet combines an SGLT2 inhibitor (canagliflozin) with metformin, while Glucovance combines a sulfonylurea (glyburide) with metformin. Invokamet works by helping your kidneys remove excess sugar through urine and reducing sugar production in the liver, whereas Glucovance stimulates your pancreas to release more insulin and also reduces sugar production in the liver. Invokamet is available in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, but Glucovance is only available in immediate-release form. Invokamet can cause urinary tract infections and genital infections, while Glucovance has a higher risk of causing low blood sugar. Additionally, Invokamet is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas Glucovance is available as a lower-cost generic. Both medications should be taken with meals to reduce side effects like stomach upset and low blood sugar and kidney function needs to be monitored.
Invokamet (canagliflozin / metformin)
Glyburide/metformin
Invokamet (canagliflozin / metformin)
Glyburide/metformin
Summary of Invokamet vs. Glucovance
Summary for SGLT2 inhibitor / Biguanide
Prescription only
Invokamet (canagliflozin / metformin) is a combination medication used along with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It's available as immediate-release tablets that are taken twice daily, as well as extended-release tablets that are taken once daily. This medication raises the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and genital infections.
Summary for Sulfonylurea / Biguanide
Prescription only
Glyburide/metformin is used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It works best when taken with a healthy diet and regular exercise. This medication combines a sulfonylurea (glyburide) and a biguanide (metformin). You take it by mouth, typically once or twice daily with meals. Since glyburide/metformin can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it's important to carry fast-acting sugars like gummy candy or fruit juice to quickly raise your blood sugar if needed. Other common side effects include diarrhea, headache, and nausea. Brand name Glucovance has been discontinued.
Indications of Invokamet vs. Glucovance
Indications for
•Type 2 diabetes
•To lower the risk of major heart events (e.g., heart attack, stroke) in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease
•To lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure, death due to heart problems, and worsening of kidney problems in certain adults with Type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease
•Available as an extended-release tablet that lasts throughout the day (Invokamet XR)
•Can lower A1C (a blood test that measures your average sugar level over time) by up to 1.8% in people who aren't already taking either Invokana (canagliflozin) or metformin
•Dose can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you