Key takeaways
Invokana (canagliflozin) and Lantus (insulin glargine) are both used to manage diabetes, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of diabetes. Invokana is an oral medication taken once daily, specifically for Type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing sugar, which is then excreted through urine. Lantus, on the other hand, is a long-acting insulin injected under the skin once daily and is used for both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar by allowing your body to absorb and store sugar from the bloodstream. Invokana is only available as a brand-name medication, while Lantus is available in both vial and prefilled pen forms. Invokana can cause side effects like yeast infections and an increased risk of amputations, whereas Lantus can lead to low blood sugar levels and weight gain. Both medications require a prescription and have specific guidelines for use and storage.
