Dapagliflozin / Metformin

Xigduo XR

Xigduo XR is a prescription FDA-approved medication used to manage blood glucose (sugar) levels in individuals with diabetes type 2. It combines two active ingredients, dapagliflozin, and metformin, which work together to reduce sugar absorption, limit liver sugar production, and enhance insulin efficiency. Xigduo for diabetes is taken once daily, preferably in the morning with food, to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s important for patients to discuss their complete health history with their healthcare provider to ensure the medication is safe based on individual health conditions and other medications being taken.

Product Overview

Xigduo XR is an oral medication specifically designed for the management of blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. This combination drug includes dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, and metformin, a biguanide. Together, these ingredients work by reducing the amount of glucose absorbed from the gut, decreasing glucose production in the liver, and improving insulin sensitivity which helps in better glucose uptake by the cells.

The usual regimen involves taking Xigduo XR once daily in the morning along with food to help reduce potential stomach upset. It is crucial for patients to swallow the tablet whole to ensure the proper release and absorption of the medication. Before starting Xigduo for diabetes, patients must inform their healthcare provider about any existing conditions like kidney or liver issues, heart problems, or severe allergies. This is vital as Xigduo XR can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with a history of diabetic ketoacidosis or severe renal impairment. Regular blood tests to monitor kidney function, liver function, and blood cell counts are recommended to avoid complications.

Potential side effects range from mild, such as nausea and urinary tract infections, to severe, including the risk of lactic acidosis, a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms of serious side effects occur. Patients are also advised to maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise regime and closely monitor their blood sugar levels as part of an overall diabetes management plan. Consulting with a healthcare provider regularly to adjust the dosage or address any concerns is essential for the safe and effective use of Xigduo XR.

What Is Xigduo XR Used to Treat?

Xigduo XR is primarily prescribed to help control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It is also used for patients with type 2 diabetes who have chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or heart disease—or those at high risk for heart disease—to help prevent several serious health issues:

• Reduction in the need for urgent heart failure treatment or hospitalization.
• Prevention of kidney problems from getting worse.
• Decrease in the risk of dying from heart-related issues.

[Note: Xigduo XR is not suitable for treating type 1 diabetes. Additionally, it may be prescribed for other conditions as deemed appropriate by your healthcare provider.]

What Strengths Does Xigduo Come In?

Xigduo XR oral tablets are available in these following strengths:

• 2.5 mg/1000 mg (dapagliflozin/metformin) tablets
• 5 mg/500 mg (dapagliflozin/metformin) tablets
• 5 mg/1000 mg (dapagliflozin/metformin) tablets
• 10 mg/500 mg (dapagliflozin/metformin) tablets
• 10 mg/1000 mg (dapagliflozin/metformin) tablets

What Are the Dosage of Xigduo XR?

Your healthcare provider will decide the best starting dose of Xigduo for diabetes for you based on the dosages of any other diabetes medications you are currently taking.

• Starting Dose for Dapagliflozin: If you are not already taking dapagliflozin, the usual initial dose is 5 mg, taken orally once every day.
• Dose for Heart or Kidney Issues: If you have heart failure or kidney problems, the recommended dose is usually increased to 10 mg once daily.
• Maximum Daily Dose: The highest dose you can take of Xigduo XR is a combination of 10 mg dapagliflozin and 2000 mg metformin, taken once a day.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How Is Xigduo Taken?

Take Xigduo XR extended-release tablets exactly as your doctor prescribes. Be sure to follow all the directions on your prescription label and read any medication guides or instruction sheets provided to you. Your doctor may occasionally adjust your dosage.

• Directions for Use:

• • • Xigduo XR is typically taken once a day, in the morning.
    • Always take the tablet with food to help avoid stomach upset.
    • Swallow the tablet whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it.

• Managing Blood Sugar Levels:

• • • Be alert for symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as hunger, dizziness, irritability, confusion, anxiety, or shakiness. To quickly manage low blood sugar, consume a fast-acting source of sugar like fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, or non-diet soda.
    • Your doctor might provide you with a glucagon injection kit for severe hypoglycemia. Make sure your family or close friends know how to administer this injection if needed.
    • Look out for signs of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), such as increased thirst or more frequent urination.

• Adjustments During Specific Conditions:

• • • Stress, surgery, illness, alcohol use, exercise, or skipping meals can affect your blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your dose or medication schedule.
    • Inform your doctor if you experience ongoing vomiting or diarrhea or if you are sweating more than usual, as these conditions can lead to dehydration.

• Additional Precautions:

• • Notify any doctor who treats you that you are taking Xigduo XR, especially if you need surgery or medical tests.
  • This medication is part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes diet, exercise, weight control, blood sugar testing, and special medical care.
  • Your doctor may advise you to take additional vitamin B12. 

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Xigduo XR Work?

Xigduo XR is a medication designed to prevent your blood sugar levels from becoming too high. Here’s how it helps manage your blood sugar:

1. Reduces Sugar Absorption: Xigduo XR decreases the amount of sugar your body absorbs from the food and drinks you consume.
2. Limits Sugar Production: It also reduces the amount of sugar that your liver produces.
3. Enhances Insulin Efficiency: Xigduo XR improves the effectiveness of your body’s insulin, which is a hormone that helps your body use sugar for energy.
4. Increases Sugar Excretion: This medication helps your body eliminate sugar through urine.
5. Lowers Health Risks: By aiding your body in getting rid of excess sugar, salt, and water, Xigduo XR also reduces the risk of complications related to heart failure, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney issues.

What Are the Safety Information for Using Xigduo XR?

What Are the Side Effects of Xigduo XR?

Common Side Effects of Xigduo XR: Xigduo XR can cause some common side effects, which usually only last a short time, such as a few days to a couple of weeks. If these side effects continue, become uncomfortable, or get worse, reach out to your healthcare provider right away. Here are the common side effects you might experience:

• Headache: You may feel a mild to moderate headache while taking this medication, which is quite common.
• Common cold symptoms: This includes symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat, similar to what you might feel with a mild cold.
• Yeast infection of the penis or vagina: Some people experience a yeast infection, which can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort in these areas.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools can sometimes occur as a side effect of this medication.
• Kidney or bladder infections: Infections in the urinary tract, such as bladder or kidney infections, might develop, which can cause pain during urination, frequent urges to urinate, or discomfort in the lower abdomen or back.

Serious Side Effects of Xigduo XR: Xigduo XR can cause some serious side effects, and while the following list isn’t comprehensive, it includes important symptoms to be aware of. If you experience any of these, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. For life-threatening side effects or if you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency services right away. Here are the serious Xigduo side effects and their signs:

• Dehydration: This can make you feel unusually thirsty, dizzy, weak, or tired. You might also notice swelling in your legs, ankles, and feet, experience confusion, have difficulty catching your breath, or pee less than normal.
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Watch for symptoms like difficulty breathing, a fruity or sweet breath odor, nausea or vomiting, very high blood sugar levels, and severe stomach pain. You might also feel very tired or confused.
• Lactic Acidosis: Symptoms include stomach pain, drowsiness, muscle pain, difficulty breathing, and a general feeling of illness.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Signs can include skin rash, itching, joint pain, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat, trouble swallowing, wheezing, dizziness, fever, stomach cramps, or swollen lymph nodes.
• Necrotizing Fasciitis (Fournier’s Gangrene): Look for redness, pain, or swelling around the genitals and anus, fever, and a general feeling of discomfort or illness.
• Urosepsis and Pyelonephritis: Symptoms might include pain in your lower side, back, or groin, fever and chills, vomiting, frequent urination or pain when urinating, cloudy or bloody urine, and loss of appetite.
• Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Signs of low blood sugar include feeling jittery or shaky, sweating, a fast heartbeat, hunger, dizziness, confusion, headaches, blurred vision, or even seizures.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: This can cause symptoms like feeling weak or unusually tired, having cold hands and feet, shortness of breath, dizziness, a fast or abnormal heartbeat, and pale or yellowish skin.
• Increased Risk of Fractures: Taking this medication could increase your risk of breaking a bone.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible Xigduo side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Using Xigduo XR? 

Before start using Xigduo diabetes medication talk to your doctor if you have any of the mentioned conditions:

• For women who have not undergone menopause, Xigduo XR may cause ovulation, increasing the likelihood of pregnancy. Discuss contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider if you are not planning to become pregnant.

• If you experience significant stressors such as fever, trauma, infection, or surgery, your diabetes medication needs may alter. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if adjustments are needed.

• Older adults, especially those over 65, may face higher risks of specific side effects from Xigduo XR. It’s important to discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider.
• Individuals with kidney issues should also be aware of increased risks for side effects. Ensure your healthcare provider is aware of any kidney problems you might have.

• Taking Xigduo XR in the morning with food can help reduce stomach upset.

• Be aware that Xigduo XR can cause your urine to test positive for glucose.
• Before starting Xigduo XR, your healthcare provider will perform tests to assess your kidney function and hydration levels to ensure the drug is safe for you to begin.

What Precautions Are Required with Xigduo?

To ensure Xigduo is safe for you, it’s important to inform your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions or are taking certain medications:

• Risk Factors for Diabetic Ketoacidosis: When discussing your health with your healthcare provider, it’s crucial to mention any conditions or factors that may increase your risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, mainly if you are prescribed Xigduo XR. These risk factors can influence how your body responds to treatment and may necessitate closer monitoring or a change in medication to ensure your safety. Key risk factors include:
  • Type 1 Diabetes or Past Episodes of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
  • Changes in Insulin Use
  • Recent Surgery or Serious Infection
  • Dietary Habits
  • Alcohol Consumption
  • Pancreatic Health
  • Dehydration Risks
• Risk Factors for Lactic Acidosis: If you are being treated with Xigduo XR, it’s important to communicate any conditions that may predispose you to lactic acidosis to your healthcare provider. Understanding these risk factors can help your doctor decide whether to monitor you more closely or to consider an alternative medication for your treatment. Key risk factors include:
  • Kidney Problems
  • Liver Issues
  • Heart Conditions
  • Alcohol Consumption
  • Use of Contrast Dyes and Procedures
  • Dehydration
  • Severe Infections or Stroke
• Genital Yeast Infections: If you have experienced yeast infections in the past, using Xigduo diabetes medication might increase the likelihood of such infections recurring. Based on this history, your healthcare provider might recommend an alternative treatment.
• Kidney or Bladder Issues: Share any past experiences with kidney or bladder infections, or if you have had difficulty urinating. These conditions can influence the effectiveness and safety of Xigduo for diabetes, and an alternative medication may be more suitable.
• Upcoming Surgery: If you have any surgery scheduled, it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider the appropriate times to pause and resume taking Xigduo XR. This precaution helps manage the risk of complications during and post-surgery.
• Pregnancy: Xigduo XR may pose risks during pregnancy, potentially harming an unborn baby. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They may suggest a different diabetes management plan during your pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: Currently, it is unclear if Xigduo XR passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provider whether you should continue breastfeeding or if it would be safer to stop taking Xigduo XR. They will provide guidance based on the latest research and your health situation.

Who Should Not Take Xigduo?

When you decide to buy Xigduo online, it’s important to weigh the potential risks against the benefits of using it. This is a decision you and your doctor will make together. Consider the following before starting Xigduo for diabetes:

• Allergies to Ingredients: If you are allergic to any component of Xigduo XR, you should not use this medication. This includes allergies to:
  • Farxiga
  • Dapagliflozin
  • Metformin
  • Glumetza
  • Fortamet
  • Any other medicine containing metformin
• Kidney Problems and Chronic Kidney Disease: Do not use Xigduo for diabetes if you suffer from chronic kidney disease, particularly if you have polycystic kidney disease or if you have recently taken medications like prednisone, which can suppress your immune system.
• Kidney Function: Xigduo XR is not suitable for individuals whose kidneys do not function properly. 
• Metabolic Acidosis, Including Diabetic Ketoacidosis: People with a history of metabolic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis should avoid using Xigduo XR. 

What to Do If You Forget to Take Your Xigduo XR Tablets?

If you forget to take a dose of Xigduo diabetes medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and just take the next one. Do not take two doses at once to catch up.

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What to Do If You Take Too Much Xigduo XR?

If you think you’ve taken too much Xigduo XR, seek immediate medical assistance. You can call 911 or contact the Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 for guidance.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How Do You Store Xigduo XR Tablets?

Xigduo XR oral tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). It can be exposed to temperatures between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

Does Xigduo XR Interact with Other Drugs?

It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you’re currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and minerals, herbal products, and any other supplements. Before starting Xigduo diabetes medication, particularly discuss if you are using:

• Lithium: This is used for treating certain mental health conditions.
• Diuretics: Often referred to as water pills, these help reduce fluid retention and can lower blood pressure.
• Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Examples include acetazolamide (Diamox), methimazole, zonisamide (Zonegran), and topiramate (Topamax). These medications affect how your body handles fluids and electrolytes.
• Other Diabetes Medications: Tell your doctor about any other drugs you use to manage your diabetes.

Does Xigduo XR Interact with Other Substances?

There are no specific interactions between Xigduo XR and most foods or drinks. However, certain dietary choices can impact how well the medication works and your overall health while on it:

• Low-Salt Diet: Following a low-salt diet while taking Xigduo for diabetes could increase your risk of becoming dehydrated.
• Ketogenic Diet: Being on a ketogenic diet may raise your chances of developing ketoacidosis, a serious condition that needs to be monitored closely.
• Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol frequently or in large amounts can heighten your risk of diabetic ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis. While it’s unclear if alcohol directly affects Xigduo XR, it can influence your blood sugar levels. It’s advisable to limit your alcohol intake to prevent these risks.

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Xigduo XR. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Is the Alternative to Xigduo?

If Xigduo XR isn’t suitable for you, there are other medications available that can manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Your doctor can guide you to alternatives that might be better suited for your specific health needs. Some common alternatives include:

• Jentadueto (linagliptin/metformin)
• Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
• Invokana (canagliflozin)
• Actoplus Met (pioglitazone/metformin)
• Amaryl (glimepiride)
• Xigduo XR (dapagliflozin/metformin extended-release [ER])
• Trulicity (dulaglutide)
• Precose (acarbose)
• Glyxambi (empagliflozin/linagliptin)
• Synjardy XR (empagliflozin/metformin ER)
• Glyburide/metformin
• Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin/metformin ER)
• Jardiance (empagliflozin)
• Invokamet ER (canagliflozin/metformin ER)
• Glucotrol XR (glipizide extended release)
• Synjardy (empagliflozin/metformin)
• Steglatro (ertugliflozin)
• Metformin ER
• Novolog Flexpen (insulin aspart)
• Nesina (alogliptin)
• Actos (pioglitazone)
• Victoza (liraglutide)
• Janumet XR (sitagliptin/metformin extended-release)
• Tresiba (insulin degludec)
• Rybelsus (semaglutide)
• Humalog Kwikpen (insulin lispro)
• Ozempic (semaglutide)
• Humalog Mix 50/50 (insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro)
• Humulin N (insulin NPH)
• Januvia (sitagliptin)
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
• Metformin
• Levemir Flextouch (insulin detemir)
• Soliqua (insulin glargine/lixisenatide)
• Miglitol
• Onglyza (saxagliptin)
• Basaglar Kwikpen (insulin glargine)
• Humulin 70/30 (insulin NPH/insulin regular)
• Diabeta (glyburide)
• Jentadueto XR (linagliptin/metformin ER)
• Prandin (repaglinide)
• Hu.mulin R (insulin regular)
• Tradjenta (linagliptin)
• Nateglinide
• Kazano (alogliptin/metformin)
• Invokamet (canagliflozin/metformin)
• Xultophy (insulin degludec/liraglutide)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]

Xigduo Coupons & Cost

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can you lose on Xigduo?

People taking Xigduo for diabetes typically see a weight loss of about 3% on average. For instance, if you weigh 200 pounds, you might lose around 6 pounds. Remember, the actual weight loss can vary depending on factors like other health conditions and lifestyle changes you make while on this medication.

Does Xigduo make you pee more?

Yes, one of the components of Xigduo XR, dapagliflozin, can make you urinate more frequently. This can cause dehydration, lower your blood pressure, or lead to sudden kidney injury because your body might lose too much fluid.

What is the benefit of Xigduo XR?

Xigduo XR is primarily used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It’s also beneficial for patients who have type 2 diabetes along with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, or heart disease—or those at high risk for these conditions—to help prevent related complications.

Does Xigduo XR cause weight loss?

While not specifically designed for weight loss, Xigduo XR has been noted by AstraZeneca to potentially help users lose about 3% of their body weight on average. It might also help lower systolic blood pressure. However, how much weight you lose can vary from person to person.

Should I take Xigduo XR in the morning or at night?

Xigduo diabetes medication should be taken with or just after your evening meal to minimize the risk of stomach upset. It’s important to take the medication at about the same time every day to achieve the best results. Consistency in the timing helps maintain the effectiveness of the medication throughout the treatment period.

Does Xigduo work immediately?

Dapagliflozin, an active ingredient in Xigduo, reduces blood glucose levels approximately two hours after intake. However, it might take up to a week to realize its full effects. Often, individuals with diabetes do not experience noticeable symptoms, so you may not feel any immediate change when you start taking dapagliflozin.

When should I stop taking Xigduo?

You should discontinue Xigduo for diabetes and consult your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of dehydration or other serious side effects. Dehydration is characterized by significant fluid loss from the body and is considered an uncommon but potentially serious condition, affecting up to 1 in 100 people taking this medication. Prompt medical attention is crucial in managing these effects safely and effectively.

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