Description
Indications
Synjardy is a medication that contains a combination of empagliflozin and metformin, two oral diabetes medications that aid in controlling blood sugar levels.
Empagliflozin functions by facilitating the kidneys in eliminating glucose from the bloodstream, while metformin reduces glucose production in the liver and restricts the absorption of glucose by the intestines.
This medication is prescribed in conjunction with proper diet and exercise to enhance blood sugar regulation in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Synjardy is used to minimize the likelihood of fatality from heart attack, stroke, or heart failure in adults with type 2 diabetes who have heart disease.
Uses and Dosage
Prior to taking this medication, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. In case of any doubts or concerns, please consult your physician or pharmacist.
Take this medication orally, exactly as directed by your doctor, typically twice daily with meals. The dosage may vary based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be currently taking.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. To decrease the likelihood of side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, your doctor may prescribe a low dose initially and gradually increase your dose. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions carefully.
For optimal results, take this medication regularly at the same time(s) each day. To help you remember, it may be helpful to take it with meals.
Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (e.g., if your blood sugar level is too high or too low).
Side Effects
Severe Side Effects
Immediate medical attention may be required if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Synjardy:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat
- Symptoms of a serious genital infection (penis or vagina) including odor, discharge, pain, tenderness, itching, redness or swelling of the genital or rectal area, fever, or feeling unwell
Stop taking Synjardy and contact your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Light-headed feeling, dizziness, or feeling like you might pass out
- Dehydration such as confusion, dizziness, feeling very thirsty, and reduced urination
- Ketoacidosis, which can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, confusion, unusual drowsiness, or trouble breathing
- Lactic acidosis characterized by unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, vomiting, irregular heart rate, dizziness, feeling cold, or feeling very weak or tired
- Signs of a bladder infection including pain or burning during urination, blood in the urine, and pain in the pelvis or back
Common Side Effects
- Low blood sugar
- Indigestion, stomach pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Bladder infection
- Yeast infection in women (vaginal itching or discharge)
- Headache or weakness
- Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat
Some side effects of Synjardy may be more likely to occur in older adults.
Caution
Before commencing this anti-diabetic medication, provide your complete medical history, including breathing problems, blood disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, alcohol abuse, or dehydration, to your physician. Some of these conditions may impact how your body reacts to the medication.
Disclose all prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may have drug interactions with this medication.
Be vigilant for severe allergic reactions while on this treatment. Refrain from taking this tablet if you are allergic to empagliflozin, metformin, or any inactive ingredients in the medication. If you observe signs of a hypersensitivity reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face, severe dizziness, skin rashes, or hives, discontinue the medication immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
Limit your consumption of alcoholic drinks while taking this medication to prevent lactic acidosis, high ketone levels, and low blood sugar. Alcohol consumption could trigger adverse effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision.
The metformin component of this medication could cause changes to your menstrual cycle, promote ovulation, and increase the risk of becoming pregnant. Discuss effective birth control methods with your healthcare provider.
If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, talk to your physician about any possible changes in your treatment plan as pregnancy could worsen or cause diabetes.