What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Bexacat (Bexagliflozin)
Also Known as Bexacat
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Bexacat is a medication prescribed to cats with diabetes who haven’t been treated with insulin before. It’s classified as a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor that helps the kidneys remove extra sugar from the blood. Vets use Bexacat to help control blood sugar in cats that are otherwise healthy and have just been diagnosed with diabetes. It comes as an oral tablet.
Directions
Bexacat should be given to cats weighing at least 6.6 lbs (3 kg) as one tablet by mouth once per day, ideally at the same time each day. The tablet can be given with or without food, and there's no need to check the cat’s blood sugar before dosing. Follow a veterinarian’s instructions carefully and avoid giving Bexacat if the cat is not eating, seems unusually tired, or is dehydrated. Cats with kidney or liver problems may need dose adjustments, so it’s important to keep a veterinarian informed about the cat’s health.
Ingredients
Bexagliflozin is the active ingredient in Bexacat.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- The cat has diabetes and is currently on insulin or has been treated with insulin in the past
- The cat has insulin-dependent diabetes
- The cat has liver disease
- The cat has reduced kidney function
Cautions
- Before giving Bexacat, consult a veterinarian about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications being taken
- Bexacat is only for use in cats—never give it to humans. Keep it out of reach of children and other pets, and call a doctor right away if it’s accidentally swallowed by a person.
- Cats who are not eating, appear dehydrated, or are very tired should not start Bexacat, as this may raise the risk of a serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. It should also not be used in cats with pancreatitis, very high ketone levels, or existing kidney or metabolic problems.
- In some cats, especially those with hidden liver or kidney problems, Bexacat may stay in the body longer and continue to cause effects even after stopping the medication. This can lead to dehydration and other complications that may require hospitalization.
- Bexacat may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Cats should be checked and treated for infection before starting, and monitored closely while on treatment, especially if infections keep coming back.
- This medication may raise calcium levels in some cats. If calcium stays high, your vet may stop treatment due to a risk of bladder stones.
- Long-term use of Bexacat might increase the risk of bladder cancer in cats. It’s important to monitor your cat for any changes during ongoing treatment.
- If a cat develops diarrhea that doesn’t get better with regular treatment, Bexacat should be stopped. It may also need to be paused during surgery or illness that affects eating.
- Some cats may urinate more often or have accidents indoors while on Bexacat. This is due to its diuretic effect and can lead to dehydration if not monitored.
- Increased appetite (polyphagia) may continue even with good blood sugar control, which can cause weight gain over time. Drinking and urinating more than usual may also persist in up to 30% of cats.
- The effects of using Bexacat alongside other medications that cause fluid loss are unknown. Bexacat has not been studied in pregnant, nursing, or breeding cats.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Bexacat in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, lethargy, and dehydration. In studies, abnormal lab values like elevated kidney markers (BUN, creatinine, USG), liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and pancreatic lipase (fPL) were observed. Some cats also experienced urinary tract infections, behavioral changes, or weight loss.
In more serious cases, Bexacat has been linked to diabetic ketoacidosis, inflammation of the pancreas, liver damage, and even death. Cats with underlying kidney or liver conditions may be more vulnerable. If your cat shows signs of worsening illness, such as persistent vomiting, extreme fatigue, or labored breathing, contact a vet immediately.
References:
- Bexacat (Beagliflozin) Product Monograph. Indianapolis, IN: Elanco Animal Health; n.d.
- Bexacat (Beagliflozin) Drug Label Information. Greenfield, IN: Elanco US Inc; 2022.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 15273
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