KOMBIGLYZE (METFORMIN AND SAXAGLIPTIN)
Kombiglyze Description
Some type 2 diabetics may have trouble trying to manage their blood glucose with diet and exercise alone or even with the added help of Metformin. Your doctor can give you a prescription for Kombiglyze, a medicine that combines Metformin and Saxagliptin that will help control your blood glucose to reduce your risk of other health concerns that can arise with long-term high glucose levels. You still need to eat healthier, exercise, and quit smoking to increase your chance to take control of this disease. Kombiglyze will not work for type 1 diabetes as it requires working with your own insulin.
Each Active Ingredient Plays a Vital Role in Glucose Control
When taken as directed, each active ingredient does its part to lower your blood glucose levels. Metformin is a member of the biguanide class of drugs and works more than one way to help control your sugar level. It acts by blocking the release of glucose in your liver so less enters your bloodstream, and will also increase your body’s sensitivity to the insulin you still produce.
Saxagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that works by increasing the amount of incretins your intestines release by blocking DPP-4. Incretins are hormones that elevate insulin levels when blood glucose is high and reduces the amount of glucose your body makes when insulin is not needed.
Health Problem Risks and the Progress of Type 2 Diabetes
There are a host of complications that could arise if your type 2 diabetes is not under control. You are at an increased risk for kidney or heart disease, vision problems, nerve damage, dental problems, or even amputation of your foot/feet from infection. It is not difficult to follow your doctor’s instructions by eating better, losing weight, and taking your meds once or twice a day.
After a decade or two, type 2 diabetics will require insulin as their pancreas has finally stopped producing it for good. Taking insulin does not mean you are now a type 1 diabetic, you are still, and will remain to be, a type 2. The same as type 1 diabetics will never become a type 2 diabetic no matter how well controlled their blood glucose is, how much weight they’ve lost, or by following a strict diet.
Before Kombiglyze is Prescribed
Ask your doctor if Kombiglyze is safe to take if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies you have to your doctor and list any Rx drugs you currently take or use, including OTC meds, herbal remedies, and vitamin or dietary supplements. This may determine if Kombiglyze is the right drug for your situation.
Kombiglyze Precautions
Be aware of the symptoms of lactic acidosis that may occur from an accumulation of Metformin in your body, including fast or shallow breathing, stomach discomfort, decreased appetite, unusual sleepiness, and diarrhea. See your doctor immediately should you experience any of these signs that indicate something may be wrong. Keep Kombiglyze and other medications out of children’s reach and do not share with others.
Possible Side Effects of Kombiglyze
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
Drugs Similar to Kombiglyze
The information provided on the NorthWestPharmacy.com website is intended to facilitate awareness about healthcare products and medical conditions generally but it is not a substitute for professional medical attention or advice. You should always speak with a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking any prescription or non-prescription drug.