What is Glyxambi?
Glyxambi is a brand-name medication that consists of two separate drugs, empagliflozin and linagliptin. The Glyxambi drug class is antidiabetic combination, which means it combines two drugs of different classes. The two drug classes in the combination are SGLT-2 inhibitor (empagliflozin) and DPP-4 inhibitor (linagliptin). Glyxambi is distributed by two drug manufacturers, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Eli Lilly Company.
What is this medication used for?
Glyxambi is used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults when treatment with both empagliflozin and linagliptin is possible. It is used in combination with diet and exercise to increase glycemic control in adults with the condition. Empagliflozin and linagliptin work together to improve glucose levels in the blood. Empagliflozin helps the kidneys rid the bloodstream of glucose, while linagliptin helps regulate the levels of insulin produced by the body after eating.
Glyxambi is also used to help lower the risk of complications leading to death, such as heart attack, stroke, or heart failure, in adults who have type 2 diabetes and heart disease. This medication is not suitable for treating type 1 diabetes.
How to take this drug
Glyxambi should be taken as it is prescribed to you by your doctor. It is taken orally, typically in the morning, with or without food. It is important to regularly check your blood sugar levels while taking Glyxambi, as well as the levels of ketones in your urine.
Glyxambi side effects
Glyxambi has been proven to be safe and effective through clinical studies. However, there are some side effects associated with its use. If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor. This is not a complete list of side effects.
Common side effects
- Urinary tract infection
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Cold-like symptoms (cough, runny or stuffy nose, etc.)
Severe side effects
- Severe pain in the upper stomach spreading to the back
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fast heart rate
Dosage
The initial dosage of Glyxambi is 10 mg of empagliflozin and 5 mg of linagliptin, taken once a day. Patients who are tolerating the therapy may increase their dosage to 25 mg of empagliflozin and 5 mg of linagliptin, taken once a day.
The maximum dosage of Glyxambi a patient should take is 25 mg of empagliflozin and 5 mg of linagliptin. If the patient is also taking insulin or insulin secretagogues, the patient may need to adjust to a lower dosage of the insulin or insulin secretagogues.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Side effects can happen with Glyxambi, but most are mild and go away on their own or with treatment. In rare cases, side effects can be serious or even life-threatening. If you notice any issues while taking Glyxambi, contact your doctor right away.
For more details about Glyxambi and its side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can answer any questions you may have.