Indications
Kombiglyze XR is oral medication used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Kombiglyze XR contains two medications, saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. Saxagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that works by blocking the breakdown of certain hormones called incretins. These hormones are involved in regulating blood sugar. By blocking their breakdown, saxagliptin helps increase the levels of these hormones in the body, which in turn helps to lower blood sugar levels.
Metformin hydrochloride works by reducing the amount of glucose that is produced by the liver and by decreasing the amount of glucose that is absorbed by the intestines. It also helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which is the ability of the body's cells to respond to insulin and use glucose for energy. Together, saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride help improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes by reducing high blood sugar levels.
Use and Dosage
Kombiglyze XR comes in the form of a tablet to take by mouth, once a day, usually with the evening meal. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing it because breaking the tablet can cause an increase in the risk of side effects. Drinking plenty of fluids while taking the medication unless otherwise directed can help in its effectiveness.
The dosage of Kombiglyze XR is dependent on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Your doctor may direct you to start at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage to reduce the risk of side effects.
To get the most benefit from Kombiglyze XR, take it regularly at the same time each day. Follow the medication plan, meal plan, and exercise program recommended by your doctor carefully. Remember to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, to avoid any potential interactions.
Overall, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider while taking Kombiglyze XR to ensure its effectiveness and reduce the risk of side effects.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Kombiglyze XR (Metformin/Saxagliptin):
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
Serious Side Effects of Kombiglyze XR (Metformin/Saxagliptin):
- Blisters
- Breakdown of the outer layer of skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Fast heartbeats
- Feeling cold
- Hives
- Irregular heart rate
- Itching
- Lightheadedness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Peeling skin
- Rapid weight gain
- Severe or ongoing pain in your joints
- Severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Swelling in your legs or feet
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Tiredness
- Unusual muscle pain
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Forms and Strength
Kombiglyze XR (Metformin/Saxagliptin) is available in the following forms and strength:
Kombiglyze XR: Tablet
- 5/500mg
- 5/1000mg
- 2.5/1000mg
Cautions
- Pancreatitis: Kombiglyze XR may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience severe and persistent abdominal pain.
- Heart Failure: Kombiglyze XR has been associated with an increased risk of heart failure, particularly in patients with a history of heart or kidney problems.
- Lactic Acidosis: Kombiglyze XR can increase the risk of developing a serious condition called lactic acidosis, which can cause symptoms such as weakness, muscle pain, and breathing difficulties. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience these symptoms.
- Kidney Problems: Kombiglyze XR can cause or worsen kidney problems, so patients with kidney disease need to be monitored closely while taking this medication.
- Hypoglycemia: Kombiglyze XR can cause low blood sugar levels, which can lead to symptoms such as shaking, sweating, and confusion. Patients should be aware of the signs of hypoglycemia and take steps to prevent it.
- Stomach Problems: Kombiglyze XR can cause stomach problems such as diarrhea and nausea, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
- Liver Problems: Kombiglyze XR can cause or worsen liver problems, so patients with liver disease need to be monitored closely while taking this medication.
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Long-term use of Kombiglyze XR can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency, especially in patients who already have low levels of this vitamin.
- Surgery: Patients taking Kombiglyze XR should inform their healthcare provider or surgeon before undergoing any surgery, as the medication may need to be temporarily discontinued.
- Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have an allergic reaction to Kombiglyze XR, which can cause symptoms such as rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Kombiglyze XR be used to treat type 1 diabetes?
No, Kombiglyze XR is only approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Can Kombiglyze XR be used by people with kidney problems?
Kombiglyze XR should be used with caution in people with kidney problems. The dosage may need to be adjusted to prevent any potential side effects.
How long does it take for Kombiglyze XR to start working?
Kombiglyze XR can start working within hours of taking the first dose, but it may take several weeks for the full effects to be seen. Patients should continue taking Kombiglyze XR as directed by their healthcare provider.
Can Kombiglyze XR be used by people with liver problems?
Kombiglyze XR should be used with caution in people with liver problems. The dosage may need to be adjusted to prevent any potential side effects.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/kombiglyze-xr-drug.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/kombiglyze-xr/what-is
- https://www.drugs.com/kombiglyze-xr.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/200678s003s004lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154922/kombiglyze-xr-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=fbd25da4-ebe6-45c9-beb8-93523d11a0b4
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