What is Xigduo?
Xigduo uses. Xigduo is an FDA-approved prescription drug that treats type 2 diabetes in adults. Like other oral diabetes medications for T2D, Xigduo is also used in adjunction with proper diet and regular exercise. It contains two substances, dapagliflozin and metformin. Both are part of a drug classification known as oral anti-diabetics.
How does Xigduo work?
Xigduo controls and stabilizes blood sugar levels. Its active substances, dapagliflozin and metformin, have different functions that benefit blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity.
Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) is the primary component of Xigduo. Its principal function is to increase the amount of sugar that comes out from the body through urine. This process decreases the amount of sugar present in the blood. Dapagliflozin is a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (sglt2) inhibitor.
On the other hand, metformin (Fortamet, Glucophage) is another substance of Xigduo that reduces the amount of glucose in the liver. This process enables glucose to enter body tissues quickly. It is also the only class of Biguanide that assists the body in reducing glucose accumulation in the intestines and supporting much-needed insulin sensitivity.
The combination of Dapagliflozin and Metformin boosts insulin sensitivity, a health factor essential to reverse the effects of type 2 diabetes. Besides insulin sensitivity, both of these anti-diabetic agents prevent the onset of complications relating to the nerves, kidneys, liver, eyes, and sexual functions. Additionally, this combination reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke, which are common in type 2 diabetes patients.
Precautions and Warnings
Taking Xigduo can cause lactic acidosis. This occurs if your kidneys are not working properly. The development of lactic acidosis can also trigger diabetes complications, especially with severe infections and conditions related to the liver and kidneys. Take note of the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Muscle pain
- Tiredness
- Trouble breathing
- Reduced heartbeat
If you experience these symptoms, there’s a massive chance of an existing lactic acidosis. Call for immediate medical attention.
Besides lactic acidosis, you can also experience hypersensitivity or allergy. Avoid using it if you are allergic to the components of Xigduo.
Xigduo can also cause serious infections involving the penis and vagina. Should you experience symptoms like redness and itchiness in the genital area and a burning sensation, address the condition immediately.
Dosage for type 2 diabetes
Before receiving a prescription with Xigduo, your healthcare professional will check on some significant health factors. These are as follows:
- The severity of your condition
- Your body’s possible tolerability with the medication
- Medical history (including your previous medical conditions or diagnoses)
Xigduo is available in different strengths:
- 5 mg Dapagliflozin & 850 mg Metformin
- 5 mg Dapagliflozin & 1000 mg Metformin
The recommended dosage for Xigduo is one tablet twice per day. Your healthcare professional will likely advise you to start in lower doses. Once your body can tolerate the impact of this medicine, you can gradually increase your daily dosage. The maximum daily dosage is 10 mg Dapagliflozin & 2000 mg Metformin.
How to take Xigduo?
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Healthcare professionals recommend taking this medicine with meals to avoid episodes of stomachache.
Avoid skipping or missing doses. Also, avoid taking double doses to make up for the missed one. You can set an alarm or reminder on your phone so you do not miss your doses.
Side effects of Xigduo
Common side effects:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Genital infections
- Runny nose
- Coughing
Severe side effects:
- Little urination
- Bladder infection
- Bloody urine
- Stomach pain
- Drowsiness
- Weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
Note: The common side effects of Xigduo are easily manageable with home-based remedies. However, if they persist for long, contact your healthcare professional immediately to obtain the necessary medical care.
