Lactic Acidosis
The metformin in Synjardy XR can rarely cause lactic acidosis, a serious buildup of lactic acid in the blood.
This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms may include:
- Severe weakness or tiredness
- Muscle pain
- Trouble breathing
- Stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Feeling unusually cold
- A slow or irregular heartbeat
The risk is higher in people with severe kidney problems, liver disease, heavy alcohol use, dehydration, or certain other medical conditions.
Seek emergency medical attention if you develop symptoms that may suggest lactic acidosis.
Ketoacidosis
The empagliflozin in Synjardy XR can increase the risk of ketoacidosis, a serious condition caused by a buildup of ketones in the blood.
Ketoacidosis can occur even when blood sugar is not extremely high.
Symptoms may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Trouble breathing
- Unusual tiredness
- Confusion
Stop Synjardy XR and seek medical attention right away if these symptoms occur.
Synjardy XR is not recommended for treating type 1 diabetes because the risk of ketoacidosis is higher.
Dehydration and Low Blood Pressure
Empagliflozin causes the kidneys to remove more glucose and water through the urine.
This can lead to dehydration or low blood pressure, especially in older adults, people with reduced kidney function, or people taking diuretics.
Symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Fainting
- Increased thirst
- Dry mouth
- Weakness
Drink enough fluids unless your healthcare provider has told you to restrict your fluid intake.
Kidney Problems
Your kidney function should be checked before starting Synjardy XR and periodically during treatment.
Reduced kidney function can increase the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis and may also increase the risk of dehydration or other side effects from empagliflozin.
Tell your healthcare provider if you notice a significant decrease in urination, swelling, severe weakness, or other possible signs of kidney problems.
Genital Yeast Infections
Empagliflozin can increase the risk of genital yeast infections.
Symptoms may include:
- Itching
- Redness
- Swelling
- Burning
- Unusual discharge
- Pain or discomfort in the genital area
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of a yeast infection.
Urinary Tract Infections
Synjardy XR can increase the risk of urinary tract infections.
Some infections can become serious and spread to the kidneys or bloodstream.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop:
- Burning or pain during urination
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Blood in the urine
- Fever
- Back or side pain
Seek prompt medical care if symptoms are severe.
Fournier’s Gangrene
Rarely, SGLT2 inhibitors such as empagliflozin can cause a serious infection of the tissue around the genital and perineal area called Fournier’s gangrene.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling around the genitals or area between the genitals and anus, especially if you also have a fever or feel very unwell.
Low Blood Sugar
Synjardy XR by itself does not usually cause significant low blood sugar.
However, the risk of hypoglycemia may increase if it is taken with insulin or medications that stimulate insulin release.
Symptoms may include:
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Hunger
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
Your healthcare provider may need to lower the dose of insulin or another diabetes medication when Synjardy XR is started.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Long-term metformin use can lower vitamin B12 levels in some people.
Low vitamin B12 may cause symptoms such as:
- Unusual tiredness
- Weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Pale skin
Your healthcare provider may check your blood counts regularly and measure vitamin B12 levels periodically during long-term treatment.
Lower Limb Problems
Empagliflozin has been associated with reports of lower-limb complications.
Check your feet regularly and contact your healthcare provider if you notice:
- New sores or ulcers
- Infection
- Unusual pain
- Tenderness
- Skin breakdown
Good foot care is especially important if you have diabetes-related nerve or circulation problems.
Allergic Reactions
Serious allergic reactions can occur with Synjardy XR.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Hives
- Severe rash
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Stop the medication and seek urgent care if a serious allergic reaction is suspected.
Before Surgery or Long Periods Without Food
Synjardy XR may need to be temporarily stopped before certain surgeries or procedures.
Periods of fasting, illness, dehydration, or reduced food intake can increase the risk of ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis.
Tell your healthcare provider that you take Synjardy XR before having surgery or a medical procedure.
Regular Monitoring
Your healthcare provider may monitor:
- Kidney function
- Blood sugar
- A1C
- Vitamin B12 levels
- Signs of dehydration
- Signs of urinary or genital infections
Regular monitoring helps make sure Synjardy XR remains safe and effective for you.
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