Bexacat
General Drug Information and Indications
SGLT2 inhibitor (bexagliflozin) for management of diabetes mellitus in cats; lowers blood glucose by increasing urinary glucose excretion.
Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor (bexagliflozin). Mechanism: selectively inhibits SGLT2 in renal proximal tubule → prevents glucose reabsorption → glucosuria → blood glucose reduction independent of insulin. First FDA-approved SGLT2 inhibitor for cats with diabetes mellitus. Oral administration.
Key information
Bexagliflozin — SGLT2 inhibitor for feline diabetes. Cats only. Do NOT use in cats with hypoinsulinemia (Type 1 diabetes) — risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Monitor blood glucose and urinalysis regularly. Store at room temperature.
How to Give this Medication
Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Administer once daily at consistent time. Monitor blood glucose within the first week of treatment. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis): risk in insulin-deficient cats — monitor closely. Genitourinary infections (UTI, mycotic infections). Polyuria, polydipsia. GI: vomiting, diarrhea. Weight loss. Hypoglycemia (if used with insulin). Requires active monitoring of blood/urine glucose. Not for use in cats with urinary tract disease.
Precautions
For animals
CATS ONLY — not evaluated in dogs. Contraindicated in cats with DKA, pre-existing renal disease, recurrent UTI, or insulin-deficient diabetes. Monitor blood and urine glucose closely. Discontinue immediately if DKA is suspected. Not for use with insulin concurrently (hypoglycemia risk). Not approved for use in food-producing animals.
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Oral tablet — Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. after handling. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Bexacat (SGLT2 inhibitor) overdose causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Ensure water access. Monitor for diabetic ketoacidosis signs.
Bexacat dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEXACAT 15MG TABLETS | 15 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com); FDA-approved label (Bexacat, Elanco)