Synjardy XR (Empagliflozin/Metfromin hcl)

Indications

Synjardy XR is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and control high blood pressure. 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.

Synjardy XR is a combination of two drugs - empagliflozin and metformin hydrochloride - and is intended to be used along with a healthy diet and regular exercise to help control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Empagliflozin works by helping the kidneys to remove excess sugar from the body through urine, while metformin works by helping to reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's response to insulin. Like any medication, Synjardy XR should be taken as directed by a healthcare professional and should not be shared with others.

Uses and Dosage

Synjardy XR is available as capsules that should be taken orally as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily with the morning meal. To ensure the effectiveness of the treatment, swallow the capsules whole and do not crush, dissolve, or chew them. Doing so could release all the drugs at once, increasing the risk of potential side effects. Taking Synjardy XR regularly at the same time each day can help you remember to take it. Drink plenty of fluids while taking the capsules, unless told otherwise by your doctor.

The appropriate dosage of Synjardy XR will depend on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. To reduce the risk of side effects, such as diarrhea and nausea, your doctor may direct you to start with a low dose and gradually increase it. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

The recommended starting dosage is the same as the total daily dosages of each component. For empagliflozin, the recommended daily dose is usually 5 or 10 mg per day, and for metformin HCl, the recommended starting dose is usually 500 mg once or twice per day, with the maximum daily dose typically not exceeding 2,000 mg/day.

If your condition does not improve or worsens, such as high or low blood sugar, contact your doctor right away.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects of Synjardy XR (Empagliflozin/Metfromin hcl):

• Bladder infection
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Headache
• Indigestion
• Low blood sugar
• Nausea
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Weakness

Serious Side Effects of Synjardy XR (Empagliflozin/Metfromin hcl):

• Blood in your urine
• Confusion
• Dehydration
• Dizziness
• Feeling cold
• Feeling very thirsty
• Feeling very weak or tired
• Irregular heart rate
• Less urination
• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Nausea
• Pain in the pelvis or back
• Pain or burning when you urinate
• Stomach pain
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual drowsiness
• Unusual muscle pain
• Yeast infection in women (vaginal itching or discharge)

Form and Strength

Synjardy XR (Empagliflozin/Metfromin hcl) is available in the following forms and strengths:

Synjardy XR: ER Tablet

• 25/1000mg
• 12.5/1000mg

Caution

• Lactic Acidosis: This is a serious condition that may occur with the use of Synjardy XR. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain or weakness, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, and dizziness or lightheadedness. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Genital Yeast Infections: Empagliflozin, one of the active ingredients in Synjardy XR, may increase the risk of yeast infections in the genital area. Symptoms of a genital yeast infection may include itching, burning, and redness. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
• Dehydration: Empagliflozin can cause dehydration, especially in older adults. Symptoms of dehydration may include dry mouth, thirst, decreased urination, and dizziness or lightheadedness. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking Synjardy XR.
• Kidney problems: Empagliflozin can increase the risk of kidney problems, especially in people with pre-existing kidney problems or those taking medications that affect kidney function. Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function while taking Synjardy XR.
• Hypoglycemia: Metformin, one of the active ingredients in Synjardy XR, can cause low blood sugar levels in some people. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and headache. Be sure to monitor your blood sugar levels closely while taking Synjardy XR.
• Ketoacidosis: Synjardy XR should not be used to treat diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a serious condition that can occur in people with diabetes when the body produces elevated levels of blood acids called ketones. Symptoms of ketoacidosis may include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, and confusion.
• Bone Fractures: Empagliflozin has been linked to an increased risk of bone fractures, especially in women.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Empagliflozin may increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in some people.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Synjardy XR, which could include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face or throat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Synjardy safe for kidneys?

Synjardy can cause fluid loss, which might lead to kidney damage. This is more likely to happen if you have low blood volume, long-term kidney problems, heart problems, or if you are taking certain medications like diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or NSAIDs.

Can I take Synjardy XR if I have kidney problems?

Synjardy XR should be used with caution in people with kidney problems, as it may increase the risk of kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your kidney function while taking Synjardy XR.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Synjardy XR?

You should speak with your healthcare provider about whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Synjardy XR. Drinking alcohol may increase the risk of side effects such as dehydration.

Resources

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/synjardy
• https://www.drugs.com/mtm/synjardy-xr.html
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-173445/synjardy-xr-oral/details
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/empagliflozin-and-metformin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20152613?p=1
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=8006ba29-ee3a-f852-a9bb-c8ec9b41cf66