Glyxambi 10mg/5mg Tablets

Manufacturer BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM Active Ingredient Empagliflozin and Linagliptin(em pa gli FLOE zin & lin a GLIP tin) Pronunciation em-pa-gli-FLOE-zin & lin-a-GLIP-tin (GLIX-am-bee)
It is used to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.It is used to lower the chance of death from heart disease in certain people.
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Drug Class
Antidiabetic, SGLT2 inhibitor/DPP-4 inhibitor combination
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Pharmacologic Class
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor; Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor
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Pregnancy Category
Not available
FDA Approved
Jan 2015
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Glyxambi is a medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar. It combines two different medicines: one (empagliflozin) helps your kidneys remove more sugar from your body through urine, and the other (linagliptin) helps your body make more insulin when your blood sugar is high and reduces the amount of sugar your liver makes.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication Correctly

To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided to you and follow the instructions closely. Continue taking your medication as directed by your doctor or healthcare provider, even if you feel well.

Take your medication with or without food, preferably in the morning.
Drink plenty of non-caffeinated liquids, unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
Monitor your blood sugar levels as instructed by your doctor and discuss the best glucose tests to use.
Have regular blood work done as directed by your doctor and inform them of any changes or concerns.

It's essential to note that this medication may affect certain lab tests. Inform all your healthcare providers and lab workers that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor. If you are on a low-salt or salt-free diet, consult with your doctor.

Special Considerations

If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.
High cholesterol has been associated with this medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
During times of stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, it may be more challenging to control your blood sugar levels. Changes in physical activity, exercise, or diet can also impact your blood sugar levels.
If you are unable to eat or drink normally, including during illness, fasting, or certain medical procedures, consult with your doctor.

Managing Dehydration

If you are unable to drink liquids by mouth or experience persistent upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea, it's crucial to avoid dehydration. Contact your doctor for guidance, as dehydration can lead to low blood pressure or worsen kidney problems.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Keep all medications in a safe location, out of reach of children and pets.
Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Consult with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method, and consider participating in local drug take-back programs.

Missing a Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
If it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
* Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Follow a healthy diet plan as recommended by your doctor or dietitian.
  • Engage in regular physical activity as advised by your healthcare provider.
  • Maintain good hydration, especially when starting the medication or during illness, to prevent dehydration.
  • Practice good personal hygiene, especially genital hygiene, to reduce the risk of infections.
  • Monitor blood sugar levels regularly as instructed by your doctor.
  • Inform your doctor if you are going to have surgery or any medical procedures, as your medication may need to be temporarily stopped.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Empagliflozin 10 mg/Linagliptin 5 mg once daily in the morning, with or without food. May increase to Empagliflozin 25 mg/Linagliptin 5 mg once daily if additional glycemic control is needed and the 10 mg empagliflozin dose is tolerated.
Dose Range: 10 - 25 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

initialTherapy: Empagliflozin 10 mg/Linagliptin 5 mg once daily
add-onTherapy: Empagliflozin 10 mg/Linagliptin 5 mg once daily (if already on linagliptin 5 mg or empagliflozin 10 mg)
maximumDose: Empagliflozin 25 mg/Linagliptin 5 mg once daily
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment needed for eGFR ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73 m². Do not initiate if eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m².
Moderate: If eGFR falls to < 45 mL/min/1.73 m² while on Glyxambi, continue 10 mg/5 mg dose. If on 25 mg/5 mg, reduce to 10 mg/5 mg. Do not initiate if eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m².
Severe: Contraindicated if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m².
Dialysis: Contraindicated in patients on dialysis.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No dose adjustment needed.
Moderate: No dose adjustment needed.
Severe: No dose adjustment needed.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Glyxambi combines two antihyperglycemic agents with complementary mechanisms of action: empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, and linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. Empagliflozin reduces renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion. Linagliptin inhibits the enzyme DPP-4, which is responsible for the inactivation of incretin hormones (glucagon-like peptide-1 [GLP-1] and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide [GIP]). By inhibiting DPP-4, linagliptin increases the concentrations of active incretin hormones, which enhances glucose-dependent insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and decreases glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Empagliflozin: ~78%; Linagliptin: ~30% (absolute)
Tmax: Empagliflozin: 1.5 hours; Linagliptin: 1.5 hours
FoodEffect: No clinically meaningful effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of either empagliflozin or linagliptin.

Distribution:

Vd: Empagliflozin: 73.8 L; Linagliptin: 1110 L
ProteinBinding: Empagliflozin: ~86%; Linagliptin: ~99% (primarily to DPP-4 enzyme)
CnssPenetration: Limited for both.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Empagliflozin: ~12.4 hours; Linagliptin: Effective half-life for accumulation ~12 hours (terminal half-life ~131 hours due to tight binding to DPP-4)
Clearance: Empagliflozin: 10.6 L/h (renal and non-renal); Linagliptin: 186 mL/min (total plasma clearance)
ExcretionRoute: Empagliflozin: Feces (50%), Urine (50%); Linagliptin: Feces (80%), Urine (5%)
Unchanged: Empagliflozin: ~50% in urine; Linagliptin: Majority
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Within hours for both components.
PeakEffect: Empagliflozin: Within days; Linagliptin: 2-3 hours
DurationOfAction: 24 hours for both components.

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of fluid and electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Fast or abnormal heartbeat
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Increased thirst
+ Seizures
+ Feeling very tired or weak
+ Decreased appetite
+ Unable to pass urine or changes in urine production
+ Dry mouth
+ Dry eyes
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Signs of kidney problems, such as:
+ Unable to pass urine
+ Changes in urine production
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of too much acid in the blood (acidosis), including:
+ Confusion
+ Fast breathing
+ Fast heartbeat
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Severe stomach pain
+ Upset stomach or vomiting
+ Feeling very sleepy
+ Shortness of breath
+ Feeling very tired or weak
Signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as:
+ Blood in the urine
+ Burning or pain while passing urine
+ Frequent or urgent need to pass urine
+ Fever
+ Lower stomach pain
+ Pelvic pain
Vaginal yeast infection: Report itching, bad odor, or discharge
Yeast infection of the penis: Report pain, swelling, rash, or discharge
Severe headache
Joint pain that is severe, disabling, or persistent: Contact your doctor immediately
A skin reaction called bullous pemphigoid: Contact your doctor right away if you notice blisters or skin breakdown

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you notice any of the following side effects or any other symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor or seek medical help:

Nose or throat irritation
Signs of a common cold

Reporting Side Effects

This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Signs of severe allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing)
  • Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (e.g., nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual fatigue, fruity-smelling breath)
  • Signs of serious urinary tract infection (e.g., burning or pain when urinating, cloudy urine, blood in urine, fever, back pain)
  • Signs of genital yeast infection (e.g., itching, redness, swelling, rash, unusual discharge)
  • Signs of dehydration (e.g., dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint, especially when standing up)
  • Signs of kidney problems (e.g., swelling in legs or feet, decreased urine output)
  • Severe joint pain (arthralgia)
  • Skin blistering or erosions (bullous pemphigoid)
  • Necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier's gangrene) - severe pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or perineal area, along with fever or malaise (seek immediate medical attention).
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
If you have type 1 diabetes, as this medication is not intended to treat this condition.
If you have a condition that affects the acidity of your blood.
If you have kidney disease or any kidney problems.
If you are dehydrated, as this may affect the medication's efficacy or increase the risk of side effects. Discuss your dehydration with your doctor before starting treatment.
If you are taking rifampin, as it may interact with this medication.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not take this medication during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
If you are breastfeeding, as you should not breastfeed while taking this medication.

Additionally, it is crucial to disclose all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, to your doctor and pharmacist. This information will help them assess potential interactions and ensure safe treatment. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking this drug before certain surgical procedures, and will provide guidance on when to resume taking it after the surgery or procedure.

Be aware that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur, especially when this medication is used in combination with other diabetes treatments. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, weakness, shaking, rapid heartbeat, confusion, hunger, or sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately and follow their instructions for managing low blood sugar, which may include taking glucose tablets, liquid glucose, or consuming certain fruit juices.

To minimize the risk of accidents, do not drive if you have recently experienced low blood sugar. Additionally, to reduce the risk of dizziness or fainting, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position and exercise caution when navigating stairs.

Before consuming alcohol, consult with your doctor to discuss any potential risks or interactions.

This medication has been associated with severe and potentially life-threatening pancreas problems (pancreatitis). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe stomach pain, back pain, or severe nausea and vomiting.

There is also a risk of developing too much acid in the blood or urine (ketoacidosis), which can be fatal. This condition can occur even if your blood sugar levels are below 250. Individuals with diabetes, pancreas problems, or those who are ill, dehydrated, or have a history of skipping meals are at a higher risk of developing ketoacidosis. The risk is also increased in people who use insulin and take less than their prescribed dose or miss a dose. As directed by your doctor, monitor your ketone levels and consult with them if you have any questions or concerns.

Severe urinary tract infections (UTIs) have been reported with this medication, and in some cases, hospitalization was required. Kidney problems have also occurred, which may necessitate hospitalization or dialysis. If you have a history of heart failure or kidney problems, inform your doctor, and seek immediate medical attention if you experience extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in your arms or legs.

This medication may increase the risk of lower limb amputations, particularly toe and foot amputations. Discuss with your doctor ways to properly care for your feet, and inform them if you have a history of amputations, blood vessel disease, nerve disease, or foot ulcers related to diabetes. If you experience new pain, tenderness, sores, ulcers, or infections in your legs or feet, contact your doctor promptly.

A rare but potentially life-threatening infection has been associated with this class of medications. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital area or the region between your genitals and rectum, accompanied by fever or a general feeling of illness.

If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately, as it may harm the unborn baby.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Hypoglycemia (if taken with insulin or sulfonylureas)
  • Volume depletion/dehydration
  • Hypotension

What to Do:

In case of overdose, contact a poison control center immediately (call 1-800-222-1222). Treatment is supportive and based on the patient's clinical presentation. Remove unabsorbed drug, monitor vital signs, and provide symptomatic treatment.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues (e.g., Sulfonylureas): Increased risk of hypoglycemia. Dose reduction of insulin or sulfonylurea may be required.
  • Diuretics (especially loop diuretics): Increased risk of volume depletion and hypotension due to empagliflozin's osmotic diuretic effect.
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Moderate Interactions

  • UGT Inducers (e.g., Rifampin, Phenytoin, Phenobarbital): May decrease empagliflozin exposure. Clinical significance generally not considered major.
  • P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inducers (e.g., Rifampin): May decrease linagliptin exposure. Clinical significance generally not considered major.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (eGFR)

Rationale: To assess eligibility for treatment and establish baseline for monitoring due to empagliflozin's renal effects and contraindication in severe renal impairment.

Timing: Prior to initiation

HbA1c

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Blood pressure

Rationale: Empagliflozin can cause hypotension, especially in susceptible patients.

Timing: Prior to initiation

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Routine Monitoring

HbA1c

Frequency: Every 3-6 months

Target: Individualized, typically <7%

Action Threshold: If above target, consider dose adjustment or additional therapy.

Renal function (eGFR)

Frequency: At least annually, more frequently in patients with impaired renal function or risk factors for renal decline.

Target: Maintain above 30 mL/min/1.73 m²

Action Threshold: If eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m², adjust empagliflozin dose. Discontinue if eGFR falls below 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

Blood glucose (fasting and postprandial)

Frequency: Daily or as directed by healthcare provider

Target: Individualized

Action Threshold: Persistent hyperglycemia or frequent hypoglycemia requires evaluation.

Blood pressure

Frequency: Regularly, as clinically indicated

Target: Individualized

Action Threshold: Significant hypotension or uncontrolled hypertension requires intervention.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, tremor, confusion, hunger)
  • Signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (e.g., nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, unusual fatigue, fruity breath)
  • Signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI) (e.g., painful urination, frequent urination, urgency, fever)
  • Signs and symptoms of genital mycotic infections (e.g., itching, redness, discharge)
  • Signs and symptoms of volume depletion/dehydration (e.g., dizziness, lightheadedness, orthostatic hypotension)
  • Signs and symptoms of acute kidney injury (e.g., decreased urine output, swelling)
  • Signs and symptoms of severe arthralgia (joint pain)
  • Signs and symptoms of bullous pemphigoid (blisters or erosions on the skin)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential adverse effects on renal development in the fetus (empagliflozin). Limited data on use in pregnant women. Should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited human data, animal studies for empagliflozin show no direct developmental toxicity at clinically relevant exposures. Linagliptin animal studies show no evidence of teratogenicity.
Second Trimester: Empagliflozin: Not recommended due to potential for adverse renal effects in the fetus (dilated renal pelvis, hydronephrosis) observed in animal studies.
Third Trimester: Empagliflozin: Not recommended due to potential for adverse renal effects in the fetus (dilated renal pelvis, hydronephrosis) observed in animal studies.
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Lactation

Not recommended during breastfeeding. It is unknown if empagliflozin or linagliptin are excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Infant Risk: L3 (Moderate risk - no human data, but potential for adverse effects based on drug properties or animal data).
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of Glyxambi have not been established in pediatric patients. Not recommended for use in patients younger than 18 years of age.

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Geriatric Use

No dose adjustment is recommended based on age. However, older patients may be at increased risk for volume depletion and renal impairment due to empagliflozin. Renal function should be assessed more frequently in elderly patients.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), even if blood glucose levels are not severely elevated (euglycemic DKA), and instruct them to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
  • Advise patients to maintain adequate hydration to minimize the risk of volume depletion and hypotension, especially during periods of illness, hot weather, or increased physical activity.
  • Counsel patients on proper genital hygiene to reduce the risk of genital mycotic infections, a common side effect of SGLT2 inhibitors.
  • Monitor renal function before initiating and periodically during treatment, as empagliflozin's efficacy is dependent on renal function and it is contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
  • If co-administered with insulin or insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas), consider a lower dose of insulin or the secretagogue to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.
  • Patients should be advised to temporarily discontinue Glyxambi prior to surgery or during prolonged fasting to reduce the risk of DKA.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., Jardiance, Farxiga, Invokana)
  • Other DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., Tradjenta, Januvia, Onglyza)
  • Metformin
  • Sulfonylureas
  • Thiazolidinediones (TZDs)
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists
  • Insulin
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Highly variable, typically $500-$700 per 30 tablets
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or 3 (preferred or non-preferred brand)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which provides crucial information for patients. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of this medication. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the quantity, and the time it occurred.