Glyxambi 25mg/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
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, Oral
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Pharmacologic Class
SGLT2 Inhibitor / Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitor Combination
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Pregnancy Category
Not available
FDA Approved
Oct 2014
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Glyxambi is a combination medicine used to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. It contains two different drugs: empagliflozin, which helps your kidneys remove more sugar from your body through urine, and linagliptin, which 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

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.

Administration

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.

Regular Monitoring

Have your blood work checked as directed by your doctor and discuss the results with them. Inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this medication, as it may affect certain lab tests.

Diet and Exercise

Follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor. If you are on a low-salt or salt-free diet, consult with your doctor. Additionally, if you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

Potential Side Effects

High cholesterol has been associated with this medication. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Be aware that stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, can affect your blood sugar control. Changes in physical activity, exercise, or diet may also impact your blood sugar levels.

Special Considerations

If you are unable to eat or drink normally, including during illness, fasting, or certain medical procedures, consult with your doctor. If you experience vomiting, diarrhea, or are unable to drink liquids, contact your doctor to avoid dehydration, which can lead to low blood pressure or worsen kidney problems.

Storage and Disposal

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 disposal or potential drug take-back programs in your area.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is 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 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.
  • Stay well-hydrated, especially when exercising or in hot weather, to reduce the risk of dehydration.
  • Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as instructed by your doctor.
  • Inform your doctor if you are sick, have a fever, or are unable to eat or drink, as this may affect your blood sugar and hydration.
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Available Forms & Alternatives

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Empagliflozin 25 mg / Linagliptin 5 mg orally once daily
Dose Range: 10 - 25 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

initialDose: Empagliflozin 10 mg / Linagliptin 5 mg orally once daily. May be increased to 25 mg / 5 mg if additional glycemic control is needed and the 10 mg / 5 mg dose is tolerated.
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.
Moderate: Not recommended to initiate if eGFR is 30 to < 45 mL/min/1.73 m². If already on Glyxambi 10 mg/5 mg and eGFR drops to this range, continue 10 mg/5 mg. Do not use 25 mg/5 mg if eGFR is < 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 is a fixed-dose combination of empagliflozin and linagliptin. Empagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, which reduces renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion and reduced plasma glucose concentrations. Linagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, which slows the inactivation of incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP). This increases the concentrations of active incretin hormones, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and decreasing glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells, thereby improving glycemic control.
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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: 1097 L
ProteinBinding: Empagliflozin: 86.2%; Linagliptin: 70-80% (concentration-dependent)
CnssPenetration: Limited for both

Elimination:

HalfLife: Empagliflozin: 12.4 hours; Linagliptin: Effective half-life for DPP-4 inhibition is ~12 hours (terminal half-life >100 hours)
Clearance: Empagliflozin: 10.6 L/h; Linagliptin: 14 L/h (apparent oral clearance)
ExcretionRoute: Empagliflozin: Fecal (50%), Renal (50%); Linagliptin: Fecal (80%), Renal (5%)
Unchanged: Empagliflozin: ~50% renally excreted unchanged; Linagliptin: ~5% renally excreted unchanged
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Empagliflozin: Within hours; Linagliptin: Within hours
PeakEffect: Empagliflozin: 1.5 hours (Tmax); Linagliptin: 1.5 hours (Tmax)
DurationOfAction: Empagliflozin: 24 hours; Linagliptin: 24 hours

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
+ Difficulty 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
+ Abnormal or rapid heartbeat
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Increased thirst
+ Seizures
+ Feeling extremely tired or weak
+ Decreased appetite
+ Difficulty urinating or changes in urine output
+ Dry mouth
+ Dry eyes
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Signs of kidney problems, such as:
+ Difficulty urinating
+ Changes in urine output
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of acidosis (too much acid in the blood), including:
+ Confusion
+ Rapid breathing
+ Abnormal heartbeat
+ Severe stomach pain or vomiting
+ Feeling extremely sleepy
+ Shortness of breath
+ Feeling extremely tired or weak
Signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), such as:
+ Blood in the urine
+ Burning or pain while urinating
+ Frequent or urgent need to urinate
+ Fever
+ Lower abdominal pain
+ Pelvic pain
Vaginal yeast infection: Report any itching, unusual odor, or discharge
Yeast infection of the penis: Report any pain, swelling, rash, or discharge
Severe headache
Joint pain that is severe, disabling, or persistent: Contact your doctor immediately
Bullous pemphigoid, a skin reaction characterized by blisters or skin breakdown: Seek medical attention right away if you experience any of these symptoms

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. Contact your doctor or seek medical help if you experience any of the following side effects or if they persist or bother you:

Nose or throat irritation
Signs of a common cold

Reporting Side Effects

This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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:

  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): sweating, shaking, dizziness, confusion, hunger, irritability. Carry a fast-acting sugar source.
  • Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, excessive thirst, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, fruity-smelling breath. Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Symptoms of urinary tract infection (UTI): burning sensation when urinating, frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, pain in the pelvis or back. Contact your doctor.
  • Symptoms of genital yeast infection: itching, redness, swelling, rash, or unusual discharge in the genital area. Contact your doctor.
  • Symptoms of dehydration: dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint, especially when standing up.
  • Symptoms of Fournier's gangrene (a serious infection of the genital or perineal area): tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or perineal area, fever, feeling unwell. Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Severe and disabling joint pain.
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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. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
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 require special consideration.
If you are taking rifampin, as this may interact with the medication.
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. It is crucial to note that this medication should not be taken during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
If you are breastfeeding, as you should not breastfeed while taking this medication.

This list is not exhaustive, and it is vital to discuss all your medications (including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other treatments and health issues. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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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 medications. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include dizziness, headache, feeling sleepy or weak, 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.

Do not operate a vehicle if you have recently experienced low blood sugar, as this can increase your risk of being involved in an accident. To minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting, rise slowly from a sitting or lying down position, and exercise caution when climbing stairs.

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

There is a risk of severe and potentially life-threatening pancreas problems (pancreatitis) associated with this medication. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or severe nausea and vomiting.

Additionally, this medication can cause a condition called ketoacidosis, which is characterized by an excess of acid in the blood or urine. This condition can be life-threatening and may require hospitalization. People with diabetes or pancreas problems are at a higher risk of developing ketoacidosis, as are those who are ill, dehydrated, or have difficulty eating or drinking. The risk is also increased in individuals who follow a ketogenic diet, have undergone surgery, or take insulin and miss doses or take less than the prescribed amount. Monitor your ketone levels as directed by your doctor, and consult with them if you have any questions or concerns.

Severe urinary tract infections (UTIs) have been reported in people taking this medication, and in some cases, hospitalization was required. Kidney problems can also occur, which may necessitate hospitalization or dialysis.

If you have a history of heart failure or kidney problems, inform your doctor, as this medication can increase the risk of heart failure. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in your arms or legs.

This medication may also 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. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience new pain, tenderness, sores, ulcers, or infections in your legs or feet.

A rare but potentially life-threatening infection can occur with medications like this one. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital area or the area between the genitals and rectum, accompanied by a fever or 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 co-administered with insulin/sulfonylurea)
  • Volume depletion/dehydration
  • Increased urinary glucose excretion

What to Do:

Contact a poison control center or emergency medical services immediately. For the U.S., call 1-800-222-1222. Treatment is supportive and based on symptoms.

Drug Interactions

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Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., loop or thiazide diuretics): Increased risk of volume depletion and hypotension with empagliflozin.
  • Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas): Increased risk of hypoglycemia when co-administered with linagliptin or empagliflozin. Dose reduction of insulin or sulfonylurea may be required.
  • Rifampin (strong P-gp/CYP3A4 inducer): Decreased linagliptin exposure, but generally not considered clinically significant enough to warrant dose adjustment.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (eGFR)

Rationale: To assess eligibility for empagliflozin and establish baseline for monitoring.

Timing: Prior to initiation

HbA1c

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Blood glucose (fasting and postprandial)

Rationale: To establish baseline glycemic control.

Timing: Prior to initiation

Volume status/Blood pressure

Rationale: To assess risk of hypotension/dehydration, especially in elderly or those on diuretics.

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, or more frequently in patients with impaired renal function or risk factors for decline.

Target: Maintain eGFR ≥ 45 mL/min/1.73 m² for 25mg/5mg dose.

Action Threshold: If eGFR drops below 45 mL/min/1.73 m², consider switching to 10mg/5mg or discontinuing. If eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m², discontinue.

Blood glucose (self-monitoring)

Frequency: As directed by healthcare provider, typically daily or several times a week.

Target: Individualized, e.g., fasting 80-130 mg/dL, postprandial <180 mg/dL.

Action Threshold: Persistent hyperglycemia or frequent hypoglycemia.

Signs/symptoms of volume depletion

Frequency: Regularly, especially during intercurrent illness or with diuretic use.

Target: Not applicable

Action Threshold: Orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia (sweating, tremor, confusion, hunger)
  • Signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing, unusual fatigue, fruity breath odor)
  • Signs and symptoms of urinary tract infection (burning urination, frequent urination, urgency, fever, back pain)
  • Signs and symptoms of genital mycotic infection (itching, redness, discharge)
  • Signs and symptoms of volume depletion (dizziness, lightheadedness, orthostatic hypotension)
  • Signs and symptoms of Fournier's gangrene (tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or perineal area, fever, malaise)
  • Signs and symptoms of severe arthralgia (joint pain that is severe and disabling)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential adverse renal effects in the developing fetus from empagliflozin. Limited human data on linagliptin use in pregnancy.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited data, generally avoid unless clearly needed.
Second Trimester: Empagliflozin: Not recommended due to potential for adverse renal effects (e.g., renal tubular immaturity, permanent impairment) in the fetus.
Third Trimester: Empagliflozin: Not recommended due to potential for adverse renal effects (e.g., renal tubular immaturity, permanent impairment) in the fetus.
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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: Potential for serious adverse reactions (e.g., renal effects, hypoglycemia) in breastfed infant.
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.

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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. Monitor renal function and hydration status more frequently in this population.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Glyxambi is a once-daily oral medication that combines two different mechanisms of action to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
  • Patients should be well-hydrated before starting and while taking Glyxambi to minimize the risk of volume depletion.
  • Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), even if blood glucose levels are not severely elevated (euglycemic DKA), as this is a rare but serious side effect of SGLT2 inhibitors.
  • Counsel patients on proper hygiene to reduce the risk of genital mycotic infections and urinary tract infections.
  • Renal function must be assessed before initiation and monitored periodically during treatment, as empagliflozin efficacy is dependent on renal function and it is contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
  • Patients on insulin or sulfonylureas may require dose adjustments of those medications to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia when starting Glyxambi.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Metformin
  • Sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide)
  • Thiazolidinediones (e.g., pioglitazone)
  • GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., liraglutide, semaglutide)
  • Insulin
  • Other SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., Jardiance, Farxiga)
  • Other DPP-4 inhibitors (e.g., Tradjenta, Januvia)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies, typically $500-$700 per 30 tablets
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or Tier 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 and effective treatment, 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 for guidance. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the overdose, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount consumed, and the time it occurred.