Kombiglyze XR is an oral tablet made up of two drugs. Saxagliptin is one of two active ingredients found in Kombiglyze XR, and is part of the drug class called DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors. Metformin is the other active ingredient found in Kombiglyze XR, and is part of the drug class called biguanide. Kombiglyze XR is an extended release form of medication, which means it is slowly dispensed throughout the day to allow for a consistent level of drugs in the body for longer periods of relief. We carry the brand choice of this medication in 2.5mg/1000mg, 5mg/500mg, and 5mg/1000mg. 

Kombiglyze XR is used together with proper diet and exercise plans to control glucose (sugar) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes type 2 is a chronic disease, occurring when one has high levels of sugar in the blood and most commonly due to an inability to produce insulin naturally or when the body does not know how to properly use insulin. Insulin is naturally made in pancreas and is what helps our body create energy out of excess sugar from the blood. Long term risks of untreated diabetes type 2 include diabetic retinopathy, kidney disease (nephropathy), diabetic neuropathy, and macrovascular (large blood vessels like the coronary arteries) problems.

Metformin helps by decreasing the sugar being made by the liver and decreasing the absorption of sugar by the intestines while saxagliptin helps by controlling the amount of insulin made in the pancreas after eating.

Only take this medication the way your doctor has instructed you too. Follow all directions listed on your prescription label.

This medication is best taken with food, swallowed whole. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.

If your doctor has prescribed you a glucagon injection kit; before starting treatment, ensure all household members and close friends and relatives know how to properly use the glucagon injection kit.

This tablet is only part of the entire treatment of controlling sugar levels in diabetes patients. Ensure you are follow the diet and exercise part of treatment as well to allow this tablet to be the most effective.

Do not use Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin/metformin)

Consult your doctor about a different medication to use if you are a person who is allergic to saxagliptin or metformin, or if you are a person with severe kidney disease or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Do not use this medication if you have an upcoming x-ray or CT scan that involves injecting dye into a vein. If you have already started treatment, consult your doctor as you may need to temporarily discontinue treatment.

Do not use Kombiglyze XR if you are a person under the age of 18 years old.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

It may not be safe for you to take this medication without a dose adjustment or special precaution if you are a person with kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, pancreatitis, high triglycerides, gallstones, or alcoholism; consult your doctor before using Kombiglyze XR.

Controlled blood sugar is very important during time of pregnancy or breast feeding. If you are pregnant or breast feeding, you may need a dose adjustment. Consult your doctor if this applies to you.

Risks

During treatment with Kombiglyze XR, you may be more at risk for developing lactic acidosis; this is a serious buildup of lactic acid in your blood. Watch for signs (see side effects) and contact your doctor if you suspect you have lactic acidosis. This risk may be higher in those who are 65 or older, have a severe infection, have chronic alcoholism, or other medical conditions.

This medication may affect ovulation and cause pregnancy to occur more easily. If you want to avoid pregnancy, use effective birth control during the duration of treatment. If you have already experience menopause, this does not apply to you.

Common side effects of Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin/metformin) may include:

diarrhea, nausea; headache; or cold symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin/metformin) may include:

severe or ongoing pain in your joints; or pain or burning when you urinate;

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Contact your doctor if you notice (even mild) signs of…

pancreatitis: severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, or fast heartbeats.

lactic acidosis: unusual muscle pain, feeling cold, trouble breathing, feeling dizzy, lightheaded, tired, or very weak, stomach pain, vomiting, or irregular heartbeat.

severe autoimmune reaction: itching, blisters, breakdown of the outer layer of skin;

heart failure: shortness of breath (even while lying down), swelling in your legs or feet, rapid weight gain.

What are some drug interactions associated with Kombiglyze XR (saxagliptin/metformin)?

Antibiotics or antifungal medicine, insulin or oral diabetes medicine, or medicine to treat HIV or AIDS may interact with this product. This is not a complete list of drug interactions.

What should I avoid during the duration of treatment?

During treatment, avoid alcohol consumption. You may increase your risk for lactic acidosis and may also lower blood sugar.

Will this medication help treat diabetes type 1?

No. This medication is meant only for diabetes type 2. Do not use this medication if you have diabetes type 1.

What is the maximum dose I can take in a day?

The maximum dose of Kombiglyze XR is 5mg/2000mg once day.