XIGDUO (Dapagliflozin/Metformin)

What is this medication?

Dapagliflozin+Metformin, Xigduo
Antidiabetic Agent, Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter (SGLT2) Inhibitor, Sodium-Glucose Transporter 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitor

How does this medication work?

Xigduo is a combination of dapagliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT2) inhibitor and metformin, a biguanide that work together to lower blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes.  Metformin decreases the production of glucose from the liver, reducing intestinal absorption of glucose and improves insulin sensitivity.  Dapagliflozin inhibits sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) in the proximal renal tubules, reduces reabsorption of filtered glucose from the renal tubules resulting in increased urinary excretion of glucose, thereby lowering the blood glucose concentration.

How should I take this medication?

Usual (Oral):  Initial dose should be based on your current daily dose of dapagliflozin and metformin.
ER: Take once daily.  Maximum daily dose of dapagliflozin 10mg/metformin 2000mg.
IR: Take twice daily.  Maximum daily dose of dapagliflozin 10mg/metformin 2000mg.

How to Take: Take with meals, the same time each day.  Swallow the tablet whole, do not break, crush, or chew.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Dapagliflozin+Metformin, Xigduo XR/Xigduo make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, and activities you perform. Dapagliflozin+Metformin, Xigduo XR/Xigduo have been associated with an increased incidence of bone fractures, genital mycotic infections (i.e. vulvovaginal mycotic infection, vulvovaginal candidiasis, vulvovaginitis, candida balanitis, balanoposthitis), hypotension, ketoacidosis, lower limb amputation, necrotizing fasciitis, vitamin B12 deficiency, and worsening renal function. Dapagliflozin+Metformin, Xigduo XR/Xigduo should not be used in patients with heart failure, renal and/or hepatic impairment.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Headache, dizziness, dyslipidemia, genitourinary fungal infection, influenza, nausea, constipation, urinary tract infection, increased urine output, cough, pharyngitis

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only the most common.