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 or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.