Metformin + Saxagliptin
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for metformin and saxagliptin
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Biguanide and Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Metformin and saxagliptin are used to manage type 2 diabetes, which is a condition where the body does not use insulin properly. They help control blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not enough. These medicines are not used for type 1 diabetes, which is a condition where the body does not produce insulin.
Metformin works by reducing sugar production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity, which means the body uses insulin more effectively. Saxagliptin increases insulin production in response to meals and decreases sugar production in the liver. Together, they help lower blood sugar levels and improve overall blood sugar control.
The usual adult daily dose of metformin ranges from 500 mg to 2000 mg, taken in divided doses with meals to reduce stomach upset. Saxagliptin is typically prescribed at a dose of 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily, with or without food. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and not adjust the dose without consulting them.
Common side effects of metformin include stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea, which are related to its effect on the digestive system. Saxagliptin may cause upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, and urinary tract infections. Both medicines can cause low blood sugar, especially when combined with other diabetes medications.
Metformin should not be used in people with severe kidney problems, as it can lead to lactic acidosis, which is a serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood. Saxagliptin should be used with caution in people with a history of heart failure. Both medicines should be used carefully in people with liver problems.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of metformin and saxagliptin work?
Metformin works by reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, which is a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. Saxagliptin works by increasing insulin production in response to meals and decreasing the amount of sugar the liver makes. Together, these medicines help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, which is a condition where the body does not use insulin properly. They complement each other by addressing different aspects of blood sugar control.
How does combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin work?
Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, reducing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity, which enhances glucose uptake by the body's cells. Saxagliptin, a DPP4 inhibitor, increases the levels of incretin hormones, which stimulate insulin release from the pancreas in response to meals and decrease glucagon levels, reducing glucose production in the liver. Together, they provide a synergistic effect, improving both fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels, offering comprehensive management of type 2 diabetes.
How effective is combination of metformin and saxagliptin?
Clinical studies have shown that metformin effectively lowers blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. Saxagliptin has been proven to increase insulin production and decrease sugar production in the liver, helping to control blood sugar levels. When used together, these medicines provide a complementary effect, enhancing overall blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. The combination has been shown to significantly reduce A1C levels, which is a key indicator of long-term blood sugar control, demonstrating their effectiveness in managing diabetes.
How effective is combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the combination of metformin and saxagliptin effectively improves glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Metformin has a long history of use and is well-documented for its ability to lower blood glucose levels by reducing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity. Saxagliptin, as a DPP4 inhibitor, enhances the incretin system, leading to increased insulin secretion and decreased glucagon levels. Together, they provide a complementary mechanism of action, resulting in significant reductions in HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and postprandial glucose levels. These outcomes have been consistently observed in various studies, supporting their combined use in diabetes management.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of metformin and saxagliptin?
The usual adult daily dose of metformin can range from 500 mg to 2000 mg, depending on the individual's needs and response to the medication. It is often taken in divided doses with meals to reduce stomach upset. Saxagliptin is typically prescribed at a dose of 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily, with or without food. The combination of these medicines is tailored to the individual's blood sugar control needs. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and not adjust the dose without consulting them.
What is the usual dose of combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin?
The usual adult daily dose for metformin in the combination with saxagliptin is typically 500 mg to 2000 mg, taken once daily with the evening meal. Saxagliptin is usually dosed at 5 mg once daily. For patients who are not currently treated with metformin, the starting dose is often 500 mg of metformin with 5 mg of saxagliptin. For those already on metformin, the dose should match their current metformin intake. The combination aims to optimize blood sugar control by utilizing metformin's ability to decrease glucose production in the liver and saxagliptin's role in enhancing insulin secretion.
How does one take combination of metformin and saxagliptin?
Metformin is best taken with meals to reduce stomach upset, while saxagliptin can be taken with or without food. It's important to take these medicines at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood sugar control. There are no specific food restrictions, but maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is recommended to help manage diabetes. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's advice on diet and lifestyle changes to enhance the effectiveness of these medicines.
How does one take combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin?
Metformin and saxagliptin should be taken once daily with the evening meal to help reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with metformin. It is important to swallow the tablets whole without crushing or chewing them. Patients are advised to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while on this medication, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect of metformin. Regular meals and a balanced diet are recommended to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
For how long is combination of metformin and saxagliptin taken?
Metformin and saxagliptin are typically used as long-term treatments for managing type 2 diabetes. The duration of use depends on the individual's response to the medication and their overall diabetes management plan. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and periodic evaluations by a healthcare provider are important to determine the ongoing need for these medicines. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made based on changes in blood sugar control and other health factors.
For how long is combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin taken?
Metformin and saxagliptin are typically used as long-term treatments for managing type 2 diabetes. The duration of use depends on the individual's response to the medication and their overall diabetes management plan. Both medications are intended for continuous use to maintain blood sugar control, as diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to assess effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment regimen.
How long does it take for combination of metformin and saxagliptin to work?
Metformin, which is a medicine that helps control blood sugar levels, usually starts working within a few days, but it may take up to two weeks to see the full effect. Saxagliptin, which is a medicine that helps increase insulin production, can start working within a few hours after taking it. Together, these medicines work to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, which is a condition where the body does not use insulin properly. The combination may take a few days to show noticeable effects, but individual responses can vary.
How long does it take for combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin to work?
Metformin and saxagliptin work together to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. Metformin starts working within a few days, but it may take up to two weeks to see the full effect on blood sugar levels. Saxagliptin, on the other hand, begins to lower blood sugar levels within a few hours after taking a dose. When combined, these medicines can provide a more immediate and sustained effect on blood sugar control. The combination helps to reduce both fasting and postprandial (after meal) glucose levels, offering a comprehensive approach to managing diabetes.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of metformin and saxagliptin?
Common side effects of metformin include stomach upset, diarrhea, and nausea, which are related to its effect on the digestive system. Saxagliptin may cause upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, and urinary tract infections. Both medicines can cause low blood sugar, especially when combined with other diabetes medications. A significant adverse effect of metformin is lactic acidosis, which is a rare but serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood. Saxagliptin may increase the risk of heart failure in some patients. Monitoring for these side effects is important when taking these medicines.
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin?
Common side effects of metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Saxagliptin may cause upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and headaches. Significant adverse effects include the risk of lactic acidosis with metformin, especially in patients with renal impairment, and the potential for pancreatitis with saxagliptin. Both medications can cause hypoglycemia when used with insulin or insulin secretagogues. Patients should be monitored for these side effects, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Can I take combination of metformin and saxagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Metformin can interact with diuretics, which are medicines that help remove excess water from the body, and certain blood pressure medications, affecting kidney function. Saxagliptin may interact with other diabetes medications, increasing the risk of low blood sugar. Both medicines can interact with drugs that affect liver enzymes, altering their effectiveness. It's important to inform healthcare providers about all prescription medications being taken to avoid potential interactions. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and kidney function is recommended to manage these interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Metformin can interact with drugs that affect renal function, such as diuretics and NSAIDs, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Saxagliptin's effectiveness can be reduced by strong CYP3A4/5 inducers like rifampin. Both drugs can interact with insulin or insulin secretagogues, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to manage these interactions effectively and adjust dosages if necessary.
Can I take combination of metformin and saxagliptin if I am pregnant?
The safety of metformin during pregnancy is generally considered acceptable, as it has been used to manage gestational diabetes, which is diabetes that develops during pregnancy. However, saxagliptin's safety during pregnancy is not well established, and it is typically not recommended due to limited data. Both medicines should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Pregnant women should discuss with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for managing diabetes during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin if I am pregnant?
There is limited data on the use of saxagliptin during pregnancy, and its safety is not well established. Metformin has been used during pregnancy without a clear association with major birth defects, but it should be used only if clearly needed. Both medications should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Pregnant women should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to ensure optimal management of their diabetes while minimizing risks to the unborn child.
Can I take combination of metformin and saxagliptin while breastfeeding?
Metformin is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, as only small amounts pass into breast milk and it is unlikely to harm the baby. However, the safety of saxagliptin during breastfeeding is not well established, and caution is advised. It is important for breastfeeding mothers to discuss with their healthcare provider whether to continue these medications, considering the benefits of breastfeeding and the potential risks to the infant. Monitoring the infant for any adverse effects is recommended if these medicines are used during lactation.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin while breastfeeding?
Metformin is known to be present in human milk in small amounts, but there is limited information on the effects on the breastfed infant. Saxagliptin's presence in human milk is unknown, but it is found in the milk of lactating rats. Due to the lack of comprehensive data, caution is advised when using these medications during breastfeeding. The potential benefits and risks should be discussed with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for both mother and child.
Who should avoid taking combination of metformin and saxagliptin?
Metformin should not be used in people with severe kidney problems, as it can lead to lactic acidosis, which is a serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood. Saxagliptin should be used with caution in people with a history of heart failure. Both medicines should be used carefully in people with liver problems. It's important to monitor kidney and liver function regularly while on these medications. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any existing health conditions to ensure these medicines are safe for them to use.
Who should avoid taking combination of Metformin and Saxagliptin?
Key warnings for metformin include the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients with renal impairment, liver disease, or excessive alcohol use. Saxagliptin carries a risk of pancreatitis and should be used cautiously in patients with a history of this condition. Both medications are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment and should not be used in those with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients should be aware of these risks and report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider immediately.
