Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Invokana (canagliflozin) and Glyburide (Glynase) are both medications used to manage Type 2 diabetes, but they work in different ways and have distinct characteristics. Invokana is an SGLT2 inhibitor that helps lower blood sugar by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar, which is then excreted through urine. It also has benefits for heart and kidney health. Glyburide, on the other hand, is a sulfonylurea that lowers blood sugar by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin. Invokana is taken once daily before the first meal, while Glyburide can be taken once or twice daily with meals. Invokana is only available as a brand-name medication, whereas Glyburide is available in both brand and generic forms. Invokana may cause side effects like yeast infections and increased urination, while Glyburide can lead to low blood sugar and weight gain. Additionally, Invokana has a risk of causing leg and foot amputations, whereas Glyburide has a potential risk of heart problems and hemolytic anemia in people with G6PD deficiency.
Invokana (canagliflozin)
Glyburide
Invokana (canagliflozin)
Glyburide
Summary of Invokana vs. Glyburide
Summary for SGLT2 inhibitor
Prescription only
Invokana (canagliflozin) is a medication that's used together with a healthy diet and exercise to lower blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It can also lessen the chance of worsening heart and kidney problems in some people with Type 2 diabetes. This medication is taken by mouth once a day.
Summary for Sulfonylurea
Prescription only
Glyburide is taken by mouth to lower blood sugar levels for people who have Type 2 diabetes. This medication isn't meant to be taken alone, but in addition to eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. Glyburide is typically taken once or twice daily, depending on your dose.
Indications of Invokana vs. Glyburide
Indications for
•Type 2 diabetes
•Lowering the risk of major heart events (e.g., heart attack, stroke) in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease
•Lowering 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
Indications for
•Type 2 diabetes
Pros and Cons of Invokana vs. Glyburide
Pros and Const for SGLT2 inhibitor
Pros
•Only taken once a day
•Can use alone or together with other diabetes medications
•Dose can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you
Cons
•Only available as brand only
•Might raise the risk of genital infections or bone fracture
•Not recommended in second and third trimesters of pregnancy
•Unknown if safe or works well in people on dialysis