Canagliflozin + Metformin
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Canagliflozin and Metformin
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
.svg)
Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Canagliflozin and Metformin.
- Canagliflozin and Metformin are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
- Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Biguanide and Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Canagliflozin + Metformin
Summary
Canagliflozin and Metformin are used to manage type 2 diabetes. This means they help control high blood sugar levels, which is important to prevent complications like heart disease and kidney damage. Metformin is often the first choice of medication, while Canagliflozin is added to enhance blood sugar control and also reduce the risk of heart problems and slow down kidney disease progression.
Metformin works by reducing the amount of sugar your liver makes and improving your body's response to insulin, a hormone that regulates sugar levels in your blood. Canagliflozin works differently - it helps your kidneys get rid of glucose from your bloodstream.
Metformin is usually taken in doses ranging from 500 mg to 2000 mg per day, split into several doses with meals. Canagliflozin is typically started at 100 mg once daily and can be increased to 300 mg if needed. Both are taken orally, as tablets.
Common side effects of Metformin include stomach upset, such as nausea and diarrhea. Canagliflozin may cause increased urination and thirst, and a higher risk of urinary tract infections. Both medications can lead to low blood sugar, especially when taken with other diabetes treatments.
Metformin carries a risk of lactic acidosis, a serious condition caused by the buildup of lactic acid in the body, especially in people with kidney or liver problems, or those who consume alcohol excessively. Canagliflozin has warnings for increased risk of lower limb amputations and a serious condition called ketoacidosis, where the body produces high levels of blood acids. Both are not recommended for people with severe kidney disease.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin work?
The combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin is used to help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Canagliflozin works by helping the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream through urine. It belongs to a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors, which block a protein in the kidneys responsible for reabsorbing glucose back into the blood. Metformin, on the other hand, works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps cells use glucose more effectively. Together, these medications help lower blood sugar levels more effectively than either drug alone, which can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.
How does combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin work?
Metformin works by reducing glucose production in the liver and enhancing the body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Canagliflozin acts by inhibiting the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys, leading to increased glucose excretion in the urine. Both medications help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but they do so through different mechanisms, making them complementary when used together.
How effective is combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin?
The combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin is used to help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Canagliflozin works by helping the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream, while Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver and improves the body's sensitivity to insulin. According to the NHS, this combination can be effective in lowering blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not enough. However, the effectiveness can vary from person to person, and it is important to follow a healthcare provider's guidance to achieve the best results. Side effects can occur, so regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare professional are recommended.
How effective is combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that metformin effectively lowers blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing hepatic glucose production. Canagliflozin has been shown to lower blood sugar by increasing glucose excretion through urine and has additional benefits in reducing cardiovascular risks and slowing kidney disease progression in type 2 diabetes patients. Both medications have been proven effective in managing type 2 diabetes, with complementary mechanisms that enhance overall blood sugar control when used together.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin?
The usual dose of the combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin can vary based on individual health needs and the specific formulation prescribed by a healthcare provider. Generally, the starting dose for adults might be Canagliflozin 100 mg once daily, combined with Metformin 500 mg or 1000 mg twice daily. However, the exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional, taking into account factors like kidney function and blood sugar levels. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What is the usual dose of combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin?
The usual adult daily dose for metformin is typically between 500 mg to 2,000 mg, taken in divided doses with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. For canagliflozin, the starting dose is usually 100 mg once daily, which can be increased to 300 mg based on the patient's tolerance and need for additional blood sugar control. Both medications are adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, and they are often used together to enhance blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes.
How does one take combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin?
Canagliflozin and Metformin are medications used to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. When taking these medications together, it's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions closely. 1. **Dosage and Timing**: Typically, this combination is taken once or twice daily with meals to help reduce stomach upset. Your doctor will determine the right dose for you based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 2. **Swallowing the Tablets**: Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them, as this can affect how the medication is absorbed in your body. 3. **Monitoring**: Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your healthcare provider. This helps ensure the medication is working effectively. 4. **Side Effects**: Be aware of potential side effects such as urinary tract infections, increased urination, or gastrointestinal issues. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. 5. **Lifestyle**: Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine as part of your diabetes management plan. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
How does one take combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin?
Metformin should be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects, while canagliflozin can be taken with or without food, usually before the first meal of the day. Patients are advised to follow a balanced diet and maintain regular exercise as part of their diabetes management plan. It's important to stay hydrated, especially when taking canagliflozin, as it increases urine output. Alcohol consumption should be limited, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis with metformin and affect blood sugar levels.
For how long is combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin taken?
The combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin is typically taken as a long-term treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. The duration of treatment depends on individual health needs and how well the medication helps in controlling blood sugar levels. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and have regular check-ups to assess the effectiveness and adjust the treatment as necessary. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to the medication regimen.
For how long is combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin taken?
Metformin and canagliflozin are typically used as long-term treatments for managing type 2 diabetes. They are not cures for diabetes but are part of a continuous management plan to maintain blood sugar levels within a target range. The duration of use is generally indefinite, as long as the medications are effective and well-tolerated by the patient. Regular monitoring and adjustments by a healthcare provider are essential to ensure ongoing effectiveness and safety.
How long does it take for combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin to work?
The combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin typically starts to lower blood sugar levels within a few days of starting the medication. However, it may take several weeks to see the full effect on blood sugar control. Canagliflozin helps the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream, while Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and continue monitoring your blood sugar levels to assess how well the medication is working for you.
How long does it take for combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin to work?
Metformin and canagliflozin both work to lower blood sugar levels, but they do so in different ways. Metformin starts working within a few days, but it may take up to two weeks to see the full effect on blood sugar levels. Canagliflozin, on the other hand, begins to lower blood sugar levels within hours of the first dose, as it works by increasing glucose excretion through urine. Together, these medications provide a complementary approach to managing blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin?
Yes, there are potential harms and risks when taking Canagliflozin and Metformin together. Canagliflozin is a medication used to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, and Metformin is another drug used for the same purpose. When combined, they can increase the risk of certain side effects. 1. **Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia):** Although Metformin alone does not usually cause low blood sugar, when combined with Canagliflozin, especially if taken with other diabetes medications, it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, sweating, confusion, and shakiness. 2. **Dehydration and Low Blood Pressure:** Canagliflozin can cause your body to lose more water and salt, leading to dehydration and low blood pressure. This can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly. 3. **Urinary Tract Infections and Yeast Infections:** Canagliflozin can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and yeast infections due to increased sugar in the urine. 4. **Lactic Acidosis:** Metformin can rarely cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms include muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain, dizziness, and feeling cold. 5. **Kidney Function:** Both medications can affect kidney function, so regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important. It's crucial to discuss with a healthcare provider before starting these medications to understand the risks and benefits, and to ensure they are safe based on individual health conditions.
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin?
Common side effects of metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. Canagliflozin may cause increased urination, thirst, and a higher risk of urinary tract infections. Both medications can lead to low blood sugar when combined with other diabetes treatments. Significant adverse effects include the risk of lactic acidosis with metformin and the potential for lower limb amputation and ketoacidosis with canagliflozin. Patients should be monitored for these serious side effects and report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.
Can I take combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin with other prescription drugs?
When taking Canagliflozin and Metformin, it's important to consider potential interactions with other prescription drugs. According to the NHS, Canagliflozin and Metformin can interact with other medications, which may affect how they work or increase the risk of side effects. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. The NLM advises that some drugs may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taken with Canagliflozin and Metformin. Additionally, certain medications might affect kidney function, which is important to monitor when on these drugs. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe to use with your current treatment plan.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin with other prescription drugs?
Metformin can interact with drugs that affect kidney function, such as certain diuretics and contrast agents used in imaging procedures, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Canagliflozin may interact with diuretics, leading to increased risk of dehydration and low blood pressure. Both medications can enhance the effects of other diabetes medications, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin if I am pregnant?
It is generally not recommended to take Canagliflozin during pregnancy. According to the NHS, Canagliflozin is not advised for use during pregnancy because it may affect the development of the baby's kidneys. Metformin, on the other hand, is sometimes used during pregnancy to manage blood sugar levels, but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is crucial to consult your doctor to discuss the safest treatment options for managing diabetes during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin if I am pregnant?
Metformin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and is often used to manage gestational diabetes, as it does not appear to increase the risk of birth defects. Canagliflozin, however, is not recommended during the second and third trimesters due to potential risks to fetal kidney development. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of continuing these medications during pregnancy, ensuring both maternal health and fetal safety.
Can I take combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin while breastfeeding?
According to the NHS, it is generally advised to avoid taking Canagliflozin while breastfeeding because it is not known if it passes into breast milk and what effects it might have on a nursing infant. Metformin, on the other hand, is considered safe to use while breastfeeding as only small amounts pass into breast milk and it is unlikely to harm the baby. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding to ensure it is safe for both you and your baby.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin while breastfeeding?
Metformin is known to be present in breast milk, but the effects on the breastfed infant are not well-documented, so caution is advised. Canagliflozin's safety during breastfeeding is not established, and it is not recommended due to potential risks to the developing kidneys of the infant. Women who are breastfeeding should discuss the risks and benefits of these medications with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for managing their diabetes while ensuring infant safety.
Who should avoid taking combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin?
People who should avoid taking the combination of Canagliflozin and Metformin include those with severe kidney problems, as these medications can further affect kidney function. Additionally, individuals with a history of serious allergic reactions to either medication should not take them. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid this combination, as it may not be safe for the baby. It's important for anyone considering these medications to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for their specific health conditions.
Who should avoid taking combination of Metformin and Canagliflozin?
Metformin carries a risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients with kidney impairment, liver disease, or excessive alcohol use. Canagliflozin has warnings for increased risk of lower limb amputation and ketoacidosis. Both medications are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. Patients should be aware of these risks and report any symptoms such as muscle pain, difficulty breathing, or unusual fatigue to their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed doses are crucial for safety.
