What is Canagliflozin-metformin?
Canagliflozin-Metformin is a fixed-dose combination medication that contains canagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, and metformin, a biguanide. It is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus to improve glycemic control. Canagliflozin helps to lower blood glucose levels by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, while metformin decreases hepatic glucose production and increases insulin sensitivity. This combination medication is available as a tablet in various strengths and has been shown to be effective in reducing HbA1c levels and improving cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes.
What is Canagliflozin-metformin used for?
Canagliflozin-metformin, also known as Xigduo XR, is an oral antidiabetic medication that combines two active ingredients: canagliflozin and metformin. This fixed-dose combination product is specifically designed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. Canagliflozin belongs to a class of medications known as sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, which work by inhibiting the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys, thereby increasing its excretion through urine.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
The addition of metformin to canagliflozin enhances the glucose-lowering effect of the combination product. Metformin is a biguanide that decreases hepatic glucose production, increases insulin sensitivity, and improves glucose utilization in muscles. By combining these two mechanisms of action, canagliflozin-metformin not only helps lower blood sugar levels but also addresses various aspects of glucose metabolism, making it an effective treatment option for type 2 diabetes management.
Pharmacological Properties
This fixed-dose combination product is available as a once-daily extended-release tablet. The recommended dose of canagliflozin-metformin is 50 mg/500 mg, and it should be taken orally with water in the morning. This medication does not require titration and has been shown to provide significant reductions in HbA1c levels and fasting plasma glucose concentrations. As with other antidiabetic medications, patients taking canagliflozin-metformin may experience adverse effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms, hypoglycemia (when co-administered with other diabetes drugs), and increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly.
Clinical Use
The primary indication for canagliflozin-metformin is the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. This medication should be used alone or in combination with other glucose-lowering therapies, as appropriate, based on individual patient needs and medical history. Patients with severe kidney impairment should not take this product. The dosage form does not require special storage conditions, but patients should follow proper dosing instructions to minimize adverse effects.
Canagliflozin-metformin side effects
Common side effects:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fatigue or weakness
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Rash
- Itching (pruritus)
- Dizziness
- Increased risk of urinary tract infections
- Hypoglycemia (when taken with other diabetes medications)
- Genital fungal infections
Uncommon side effects:
- Anaphylaxis
- Angioedema
- Anemia
- Decreased platelet count
- Lymphoma
- Thrombocytopenia
- Increased risk of bladder cancer (in patients taking canagliflozin alone)
Rare side effects:
- Pancreatitis
- Hypersensitivity reactions (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis)
- Serious skin reactions (such as drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, or DRESS)
- Angioedema of the face, lips, tongue, or larynx
Additional side effects related to canagliflozin:
- Increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis
- Increased risk of dehydration in patients taking concomitant diuretics
Additional side effects related to metformin:
- Anemia (due to decreased erythropoietic activity)
- Increased lactate levels (which may be exacerbated by underlying conditions such as liver disease or chronic alcohol consumption)
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and other potential side effects are possible.
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.