Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Saxagliptin and metformin is prescribed in conjunction with a balanced diet and exercise regimen to manage elevated blood sugar levels in individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Effectively regulating high blood sugar is essential in averting complications such as kidney damage, vision impairment, nerve issues, limb loss, and sexual function disorders.
This medication comprises two active components: saxagliptin and metformin. Saxagliptin functions by augmenting the levels of naturally occurring incretins, which assist in blood sugar control by enhancing insulin release, particularly post-meal, and reducing liver-produced sugar. Metformin contributes to blood sugar reduction by reinstating the body’s proper response to insulin, concurrently diminishing liver-produced sugar and sugar absorption in the stomach/intestines.
Uses and Dosage
Consume this medication orally as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily during the evening meal.
Ingest the tablets whole; avoid crushing or chewing them, as this could result in the rapid release of the entire dose, increasing the likelihood of experiencing side effects.
Stay adequately hydrated while using this medication, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
The prescribed dosage is contingent on your medical condition, response to treatment, and concurrent medications. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you are using, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products. To minimize the risk of side effects, such as stomach upset, your doctor might instruct you to initiate the medication at a low dose and gradually escalate it. Adhere closely to your doctor’s guidelines.
Consistently take this medication to derive maximum benefits. To aid in remembering, administer it at the same time daily.
Adhere diligently to the prescribed medication regimen, dietary plan, and exercise routine recommended by your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- muscle aches
- abdominal or stomach pain
- itching
- pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
- redness of the skin
- weakness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- anxiety
- bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- blurred vision
- body aches or pain
- chills
- cold sweats
- confusion
- cool, pale skin
- cough
- depression
- difficult, burning, or painful urination
- difficulty with breathing
- dizziness
- ear congestion
- fast heartbeat
- fever
- frequent urge to urinate
- headache
- increased hunger
- loss of voice
- lower back or side pain
- nasal congestion
- nausea
- nightmares
- runny nose
- seizures
- shakiness
- slurred speech
- sneezing
- sore throat
Caution
- Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, particularly to saxagliptin or metformin, or if you have any other known allergies. This product might contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have kidney disease, severe respiratory issues, blood disorders, liver disease, pancreas-related conditions (like pancreatitis), or factors that may elevate the risk of pancreatitis (such as gallbladder stones, regular alcohol use/abuse, or high levels of fats/triglycerides in the blood).
- Due to extremely low or high blood sugar levels, you may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you are confident in your ability to do so safely.
- Limit alcohol consumption while on this medication, as it can heighten the risk of lactic acidosis, pancreatitis, and low blood sugar.
- Dehydration resulting from factors like high fever, diuretic use (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Cease medication and promptly inform your doctor if you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. Unless directed otherwise by your doctor, ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
- Stressful conditions such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery may make blood sugar control challenging. Consult your doctor, as this may necessitate adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar monitoring.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to this drug’s side effects, particularly low blood sugar or lactic acidosis.
- Metformin can influence the menstrual cycle, promoting ovulation and increasing the likelihood of pregnancy. Discuss reliable birth control options with your doctor or pharmacist while using this medication.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly essential, and discuss the associated risks and benefits with your doctor. Pregnancy itself can cause or exacerbate diabetes, necessitating a plan with your doctor for managing blood sugar during pregnancy, potentially involving adjustments to your diabetes treatment, such as diet and medications, including insulin.
- Metformin passes into breast milk in small quantities, and it is uncertain whether saxagliptin does the same. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Kombiglyze XR is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Kombiglyze XR tablet:
- 5 / 500 mg
- 2.5 / 1000 mg
- 5 / 1000 mg
FAQ
How quickly does Kombiglyze XR work?
You should see some changes in your daily blood sugars within a few days of starting the medication, however this may vary from person to person. The full effects of Kombiglyze XR can take up to a few weeks for maintaining blood sugar levels and improving A1C.
Can Kombiglyze XR cause weight gain?
Kombiglyze XR is not likely to cause weight gain.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/kombiglyze-xr/what-is#faqs
- https://www.rxlist.com/kombiglyze-xr-drug.htm
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/saxagliptin-and-metformin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20074625
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154922/kombiglyze-xr-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/kombiglyze-xr.html
