Empagliflozin and Metformin Tablets 5/500 mg (Empagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride)

Adult dose

The recommended dosage of this medication is one tablet twice daily. The maximum recommended daily dosage for each ingredient is 25 mg of empagliflozin and 2000 mg of metformin. Patients who cannot achieve sufficient blood sugar control with metformin alone or in combination with insulin or other medications should take empagliflozin 5 mg twice daily (total daily dose of 10 mg) along with the standard metformin dosage. For patients who tolerate 10 mg of empagliflozin (total daily dose), a dose increase to 25 mg (total daily dose) can be considered if additional blood sugar control is needed.

This medication can cause a rare but serious side effect known as lactic acidosis, therefore it should not be used in patients with poor kidney function, acute kidney issues, severe infections, or dehydration. Additionally, the risk of hypoglycemia may increase if this medication is used in conjunction with insulin or sulfonylureas, so blood sugar levels should be monitored carefully in such cases. It is best to avoid this medication in pregnant women or those who may become pregnant, breastfeeding mothers, and patients with severely impaired liver function. Since this medication is influenced by kidney function, regular kidney function tests should be performed before and during treatment, and the medication should be discontinued if kidney function falls below a certain level. Before and after procedures utilizing iodinated contrast media, this medication should be temporarily discontinued, and resumed only after kidney function has returned to normal. This medication can lead to fluid loss, so it should be used carefully in elderly patients, those with low blood pressure, or symptoms of dehydration, with the option to interrupt treatment if necessary. During treatment, urinary tract infections or genital infections may occur, thus any infections should be reported to healthcare professionals immediately. Since vitamin B12 levels may decrease, it is advisable to check blood vitamin B12 levels in patients receiving long-term treatment. It is crucial to avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication, and be cautious of irregular eating habits or excessive exercise, as well as potential interactions with other medications that may increase the risk of hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis. Elderly patients have a higher risk of renal function decline and fluid loss; therefore, dosage adjustments and regular monitoring are necessary during treatment. In the event of an overdose of this medication, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly, especially if symptoms of lactic acidosis occur, as immediate emergency treatment is required.

Serious side effects

Hives, angioedema, necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier's gangrene), ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, urosepsis, pyelonephritis, severe allergic reactions, serious skin adverse reactions, severe neurological symptoms, liver abnormalities (jaundice), severe edema or urination issues, severe lactic acidosis, severe hypoglycemia, acute renal failure, severe liver damage, exacerbation of heart failure, acute renal failure related to iodinated contrast media, dehydration and hypotension due to increased urine output

Mild side effects

• Hypoglycemia
• urinary tract infections
• genital infections
• increased urination
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• decreased appetite
• constipation

Store this medication in a tightly closed container, ensuring it does not come into contact with air or moisture, and keep it at a safe temperature between 1 degree and 30 degrees Celsius. Storing it this way can help maintain its efficacy for a longer duration.

Appearance

Orange-yellow, bilaterally convex oval film-coated tablets

Package unit

10 tablets/box [(10 tablets/PTP x 1)], 60 tablets/box [(10 tablets/PTP x 6)], 60 tablets/bottle