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Home > Drug Category > Diabetic Medications and Products > Xigduo and Equivalent

Xigduo Information

Xigduo (Dapagliflozin Propanediol Monohydrate/Metformin Hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. In this chronic condition, the body either resists insulin or doesn't produce enough of it, leading to high blood sugar and resultant damage to vital organs. Xigduo is a combination medication typically used in conjunction with dietary changes and lifestyle modifications such as increased exercise and physical activities. One of its active components, Dapagliflozin, may help lower the risk of hospitalization in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus who also have heart failure. It can potentially reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death in individuals with established heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. It may also help slow the decline of kidney function in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Its active ingredients are dapigliflozin and metformin hydrochloride, which belong to the classes of oral hypoglycemic agents, namely sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and biguanides, respectively. Dapigliflozin lowers blood glucose by blocking the sodium-glucose cotransporter in the kidneys, thereby reducing glucose reabsorption and increasing urinary glucose excretion. Metformin works by decreasing hepatic glucose production, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing intestinal glucose absorption. This dual mechanism helps control blood sugar levels, with additional benefits such as potential weight loss and cardiovascular protection.

While clinical studies show that Xigduo effectively improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, it is not recommended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. It should also not be used in life-threatening complications of diabetes known as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Xigduo Side Effects

Like all medications, Xigduo may cause some side effects. Common mild side effects of this medication include back pain, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, joint pain, weight loss, loss of appetite, metallic taste in the mouth, runny nose, or sore throat. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Diabetic ketoacidosis with symptoms like difficulty breathing, nausea, fruity breath smell, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, confusion, extreme thirst;
• Genital yeast infection with symptoms like vaginal or penile itching, soreness, or discharge;
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) with symptoms like dry skin, constipation, weight gain, fatigue, aches, pain, and stiffness, and intolerance to cold;
• Kidney problems with symptoms such as increased urination at night, decreased urine production, blood in the urine, painful or difficult urination;
• Liver problems with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools;
• Low blood glucose with symptoms such as tremors, blurred vision, confusion, difficulty concentrating, difficulty speaking, dizziness, loss of consciousness;
• Low blood pressure, especially from dehydration, with symptoms like dizziness when standing, fainting, lightheadedness;
• Nerve damage with symptoms like prickling, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs, progressing to sharp, stabbing pain;
• Pancreatitis with symptoms such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea;
• Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the genital area;
• Sepsis (infection that has spread throughout the body) with symptoms like fever, low body temperature, chills, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat;
• Serious urinary tract infections with symptoms like fever, back pain, frequent and painful urination

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Xigduo Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to the active or inactive ingredients in Xigduo. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Blood cell problems such as anemia;
• Dehydration;
• Diabetic ketoacidosis;
• Genital yeast infections;
• Heart disease;
• High cholesterol levels in the blood;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Pancreas problems;
• Severe hyperglycemia with lactic acidosis;
• Stroke;
• Thyroid problems;
• Type 1 diabetes;
• Urinating problems, including urinary tract infections;
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

Avoid alcohol intake while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as lactic acidosis. Inform your doctor that you are taking this medication if you have a severe infection or are undergoing a surgical procedure or investigation that requires contrast agents. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous tasks until you have determined how this medication affects you, as Xigduo may cause dizziness due to hypoglycemia. Elderly individuals are at an increased risk of experiencing side effects with this medication, so this medication should be used with caution in older adults. This medication is not suitable for use during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters. It is also not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication, as it may pass through the breast milk and affect the infant.

Some medications may interact with the active ingredients in Xigduo, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Medicines that can affect kidney function, such as diuretics and some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, must be used cautiously as they can increase the risk of both dehydration and metformin accumulation. Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine whether it is safe to use with Xigduo. Take Xigduo tablets orally, preferably with food, as directed by your doctor. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose of this medicine for you depending on your condition and response to treatment. It is usually recommended to take it with food to help reduce potential stomach upset. Take this medication regularly to maximize benefit. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage details. Store this medication at room temperature and keep it away from children and pets.

Do I need a prescription to order Xigduo?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Xigduo.