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

Xigduo XR Information

Xigduo XR (Dapagliflozin Propanediol/Metformin Hydrochloride) is a prescription combination medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus when treatment with either dapagliflozin or metformin has not controlled your blood sugar. It is primarily used in conjunction with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults and children (aged 10 years and older) with type 2 diabetes. It may also be used to reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes who have established cardiovascular disease. Xigduo XR may also be used to reduce the risk of sustained kidney function decline, end-stage kidney disease, cardiovascular death, and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease at risk of worsening of their condition.

Xigduo XR contains two active ingredients: dapagliflozin and metformin. Dapigliflozin, a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, works by promoting renal clearance of excess glucose via the urine. Metformin, a biguanide, reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity. Clinical studies show that Xigduo XR effectively lowers blood glucose parameters, such as glycated haemoglobin and fasting glucose, as well as body weight and blood pressure, in patients with type 2 diabetes. It is available in an extended-release (XR) form, meaning the medication is released slowly over time, providing sustained blood sugar control, with additional benefits such as cardiovascular protection.

It is worth noting that this medication 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 XR Side Effects

Like all medications, Xigduo XR 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, pains, and stiffness, 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 XR Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to active and inactive ingredients in Xigduo XR. 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, especially heart attack;
• Heavy alcohol intake;
• 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

Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in other tasks that could pose a risk while taking this medication. This is because Xigduo XR can cause dizziness, which may be related to hypoglycemia. It's always best to be cautious until you see how you react to it. 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. This medication is not suitable for use during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it may harm your unborn baby. It is also not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication, as it may pass through the breast milk and affect the breastfed infant.

Some medications may interact with the active ingredients in Xigduo XR, increasing the risk of adverse effects. Taking Xigduo XR with diuretics increases the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure (hypotension), as both medications cause increased fluid and salt loss through urine. Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine if it is safe to use along with this Xigduo XR. This medication is available as extended-release tablets for oral use. Take these tablets once daily in the morning, preferably with food. Swallow this medication whole; do not crush, cut, or chew. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage schedule for you depending on your condition and response to treatment. 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 XR?

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