What is Xigduo?
Xigduo is a prescription combination preparation that combines the two active ingredients Dapagliflozin (SGLT2 inhibitor) and Metformin (biguanide) in one tablet. It is used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2 in adults.
The fixed combination is intended for patients who already take Dapagliflozin and metformin as individual preparations or in which metformin alone does not have sufficient effect. Taking a tablet instead of two improves the therapy loyalty.
Xigduo is made by AstraZeneca.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Dapagliflozin / Metformin
Xigduo combines two complementary mechanisms of action:
Dapagliflozin (SGLT2 inhibitor):
- Inhibits sugar resorption in the kidney
- Glucose is excreted over urine
- Additional blood pressure and weight reduction
Metformin (biguanide):
- Inhibits new sugar in the liver
- Improves insulin sensitivity of cells
- Slows sugar intake in the intestine
Advantages of the combination:
- Stronger HbA1c reduction than any active substance alone
- No increased hypoglycemia risk
- weight-neutral to weight-consuming
Who is it suitable for?
Xigduo is suitable for:
- Adults with type 2 diabetes where metformin alone is not enough
- Patients who already take Dapagliflozin and Metformin individually (simplification)
- As part of a combination therapy with other antidiabetics
Not suitable:
- Diabetes type 1
- Heavy kidney failure (eGFR < 30 ml/min)
- Acute conditions with risk of lactatosis
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Available Dosages
Available starches:
- 5 mg / 850 mg (Dapagliflozin / Metformin)
- 5 mg / 1000 mg
- 10 mg / 850 mg (XR – retard formulation with metformin)
- 10 mg / 1000 mg (XR)
Dosing:
- Customized, based on previous therapy
- usual: 2x daily (standard formulation) or 1x daily (XR-Retard)
How to Take
Intake:
- Take at meals (due to metformin component)
- Pills ingestion
- Do not disassemble or chew XR retard tablets
Dosing scheme:
- Standard formulation: 2x daily (morning and evening)
- Retard Formulation (XR): 1x daily (evening for food)
Important notes:
- Set off 48 h before contrast media studies (due to metformin)
- Drinking sufficient liquid
- Regular kidney value controls
Contraindications
**Xigduo must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to dapagliflozin or metformin
- Heavy kidney failure (eGFR < 30 ml/min)
- Diabetes type 1
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Liver insufficiency
- Alcoholism
- Acute heart failure, shock, respiratory failure
Pregnant period: Contraindicated.
Possible Side Effects
Combination of the side effects of both active ingredients:
From Dapagliflozin:
- Genital fungal infections, urinary tract infections
- Multiplying water
From Metformin:
- nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain (especially at the beginning)
- Taste disorders
Seltene but serious side effects:
- lactate azide (by metformin)
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (through dapagliflozin)
Interactions
Contrast agent (joint): 48 hours before and after the investigation.
Alcohol: Increased lactatosis risk. Most.
Diuretics: Strengthened dehydration possible.
Insulin/sulfonylureas: Hypoglycemia risk increases – dose adjustment necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Xigduo right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.