Indications 

Xigduo XR is a prescribed medication used alongside dietary and exercise regimens to enhance glycemic management in adult individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 

Xigduo XR contains two medications: dapagliflozin and metformin. 

Dapagliflozin is a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor; it functions by assisting the kidneys in eliminating glucose from the bloodstream. While metformin, a biguanide, works by reducing glucose production in the liver and decreases glucose absorption in the intestines. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment Xigduo XR and with every prescription refill, carefully review the medication guide and patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your physician or pharmacist. 

The appropriate dosage of Xigduo XR may differ among individuals based on their medical condition, treatment response, and concurrent medications. 

Typically, Xigduo XR is taken once daily in the morning with food, as instructed by the physician.  

The tablet must be ingested whole and not crushed, cut, or chewed, as these actions can rapidly release the medication, potentially heightening the likelihood of adverse effects. 

To maximize the effectiveness of Xigduo XR, take it regularly at around the same time each day, exactly how it is prescribed. 

Keep taking this medication even if you feel well and consult your physician before discontinuing the treatment. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Xigduo XR. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your physician. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea 
• Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Reduced urination or none at all 
• Signs of a bladder infection:  
  • Pain or burning during urination 
  • Increased urination 
  • Blood in urine 
  • Fever 
  • Pelvic or back pain 
• Symptoms of dehydration:  
  • Dizziness 
  • Weakness 
  • Light-headedness (feeling like you might faint) 
• Ketoacidosis (excess acid in the blood):  
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Stomach pain 
  • Confusion 
  • Unusual drowsiness 
  • Difficulty breathing 
• Lactic acidosis:  
  • Unusual muscle pain 
  • Breathing problems 
  • Stomach pain 
  • Vomiting 
  • Irregular heart rate 
  • Dizziness 
  • Cold sensation 
  • Extreme weakness or fatigue 

Promptly reach out to your physician if you experience any of the above-listed serious side effects. 

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of genital infections, as these symptoms can worsen rapidly: 

• Burning, itching, odor, discharge, pain, tenderness, redness, swelling in the genital or rectal area 
• Fever 
• General feeling of unwellness 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare instances, Xigduo XR may cause a severe allergic reaction. Promptly seek medical assistance if you notice any signs of allergic reactions, such as: 

• Hives 
• Swelling face, lips, tongue, or throat 
• Difficulty in breathing  

Not all side effects of Xigduo XR are included in this list. Tell your physician of any additional side effects that may occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Xigduo XR, inform your physician if you have any known allergies, particularly to dapagliflozin and metformin. 

Consult your pharmacist for further details on Xigduo XR, as it may contain inactive ingredients that may elicit allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Xigduo XR is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Breathing problems (e.g., asthma, obstructive lung disease) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Alcohol use/abuse 
• Vaginal or penile yeast infections 
• Dehydration 
• Blood disorders (e.g., anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency) 

Numerous medications can impact blood sugar control. Discuss potential effects with your physician or pharmacist before altering any medication and disclose to them all the products you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Adhere to recommended blood sugar monitoring and promptly inform your physician of any high or low blood sugar symptoms. They may need to modify your diabetes treatment, exercise regimen, or dietary plan accordingly. 

The administration of Xigduo XR may disrupt specific laboratory examinations, including urine glucose tests, potentially leading to inaccurate results. Inform laboratory personnel and all healthcare providers about your utilization of this medication. 

While on Xigduo XR, your physician might recommend increasing your intake of vitamin B12. Ensure to follow the prescribed amount of vitamin B12. 

Kidney function monitoring may be necessary while undergoing Xigduo XR treatment. 

If you require an X-ray or CT scan with intravenous dye, a temporary discontinuation of Xigduo XR may be necessary. 

Blurred eyesight, dizziness, or drowsiness caused by abnormally low or high blood sugar levels may be experienced during Xigduo XR treatment. To ensure your well-being, avoid driving, operating machinery, or participating in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can perform them safely. 

Elevated body temperature, diuretics (like hydrochlorothiazide), excessive perspiration, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to dehydration and raise the risk of lactic acidosis. Cease Xigduo XR use and promptly notify your physician if you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration unless otherwise instructed. 

Blood sugar management can become more challenging during periods of bodily stress (e.g., fever, infection, injury, or surgery). Furthermore, reduced food intake or inability to eat due to illness can result in elevated ketone levels while on this medication. Consult your physician, as this situation may require adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, blood sugar, and ketone monitoring. 

Inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy status. Xigduo XR is contraindicated in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. 

Metformin can induce ovulation in premenopausal women and potentially raise the chances of unintended pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider regarding your risk. 

Small amounts of metformin are transferred to breast milk, whereas the transfer of dapagliflozin remains undetermined. Consult a healthcare professional before initiating breastfeeding.