METFORMIN-SAXAGLIPTIN

This drug can cause serious side effects, such as lactic acidosis, inflammation of your pancreas, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and allergic reactions.

Common side effects include respiratory problems, urinary tract infections, and upset stomach.

Precautions

Take note of the following before taking this medication:

• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to saxagliptin or metformin; or if you have any other allergies.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, severe breathing problems (such as obstructive lung disease, severe asthma), blood problems (such as anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency), liver disease, disease of the pancreas (pancreatitis), risk factors for pancreatitis (such as stones in your gallbladder, regular use/abuse of alcohol, high levels of fats/triglycerides in the blood).
• Tell your doctor before having surgery or any X-ray/scanning procedure using iodinated contrast.
• Notify your doctor if you have High fever, “water pills” (diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide), too much sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause loss of too much body water (dehydration) and increase your risk of lactic acidosis. Stop taking this medication and tell your doctor right away if you have prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. Be sure to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration unless your doctor directs you otherwise.
• You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar levels. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
• Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase your risk of developing lactic acidosis, pancreatitis and low blood sugar.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially low blood sugar or lactic acidosis.
• Metformin can cause changes in the menstrual cycle (promote ovulation) and increase the chance of pregnancy. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about using reliable birth control while taking this medication.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Interactions

Your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully because this drug can interact with other medications, herbs, or vitamins you might be taking. To know more about these interactions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take too much of this drug, call your emergency hotline, or go to the emergency room right away. Your blood sugar may become too low (hypoglycemia) if you take too much of this medication. Symptoms of low blood sugar include:

• shaking
• sweating
• rapid heart rate
• changes in vision
• intense hunger
• headache
• changes in mood

Available brands:

• Kombiglyze XR