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.
