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saxagliptin and metformin
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 1000 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 500 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
| Saxagliptin Hydrochloride Dihydrate | 2.5 mg/1 | 1043563 | View |
| Saxagliptin Hydrochloride Dihydrate | 5 mg/1 | 1043563 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Biguanide [EPC] | EPC | All 47 members |
| Biguanides [CS] | CS | All 47 members |
| Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 27 members |
| Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 27 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 205981-001 | SAXAGLIPTIN AND METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE; SAXAGLIPTIN HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 205981-002 | SAXAGLIPTIN AND METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE; SAXAGLIPTIN HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 205981-003 | SAXAGLIPTIN AND METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE; SAXAGLIPTIN HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | August 11, 2026 | Standard |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | August 4, 2026 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | July 31, 2023 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Original application · August 21, 2023
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260821). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS • Post-marketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias. The onset of metformin-associated lactic acidosis is often subtle, accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate levels (> 5 mmol/Liter), anion gap acidosis (without evidence of ketonuria or ketonemia), an increased lactate/pyruvate ratio; and metformin plasma levels generally > 5 mcg/mL [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. • Risk factors for metformin-associated lactic acidosis include renal impairment, concomitant use of certain drugs (e.g., carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as topiramate), age 65 years old or greater, having a radiological study with contrast, surgery and other procedures, hypoxic states (e.g., acute congestive heart failure ), excessive alcohol intake, hepatic impairment, and mitochondrial diseases [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. • Steps to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis in these high risk groups are provided in the full prescribing information [ see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Interactions (7) , and Use in Specific Populations (8.6 , 8.7) ]. • If metformin-associated lactic acidosis is suspected, immediately discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. WARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Post-marketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have resulted in death, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias. Symptoms included malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, somnolence, and abdominal pain. Laboratory abnormalities included elevated blood lactate levels, anion gap acidosis, increased lactate/pyruvate ratio; and metformin plasma levels generally > 5 mcg/mL. ( 5.1 ) • Risk factors include renal impairment, concomitant use of certain drugs, age > 65 years old, radiological studies with contrast, surgery and other procedures, hypoxic states, excessive alcohol intake, hepatic impairment, and mitochondrial diseases. Steps to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis in these high risk groups are provided in the Full Prescribing Information. ( 5.1 ) • If lactic acidosis is suspected, discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended. ( 5.1 )
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingBoxed Warning 8/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Lactic Acidosis ( 5.1 ) 8/2026
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus [ see Clinical Studies (14) ]. Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are a combination of saxagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor, and metformin hydrochloride (HCl), a biguanide, indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use: • Not recommended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis. ( 1.1 ) 1.1 Limitations of Use Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are not recommended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Administer once daily with the evening meal. ( 2.1 ) • Individualize the starting dosage based on the patient’s current regimen then adjust the dosage based on effectiveness and tolerability. ( 2.1 ) • Do not exceed a daily dosage of 5 mg saxagliptin/2,000 mg metformin HCl extended-release. ( 2.1 ) • Swallow whole. Never crush, cut, or chew. ( 2.1 ) • Limit the saxagliptin dosage to 2.5 mg daily for patients also taking strong cytochrome P450 3A4/5 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole). ( 2.3 , 7.1 ) • Assess renal function prior to initiation of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets and periodically thereafter. ( 2.2 ) o Do not use in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . o Initiation is not recommended in patients with eGFR between 30 - 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . o Assess risk/benefit of continuing if eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . o Limit the saxagliptin component to 2.5 mg daily if eGFR is less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . o Discontinue if eGFR falls below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . • Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets may need to be discontinued at time of, or prior to, iodinated contrast imaging procedures. ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosage and Administration Individualize the starting dosage of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets based on the patient’s current regimen and the available strengths of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets [ see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3) ]. Administer saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets once daily with the evening meal, with gradual dose titration to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects associated with metformin HCl [ see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. The recommended starting dosage of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets in patients who need 5 mg of saxagliptin and who are not currently treated with metformin HCl is one saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablet containing 5 mg saxagliptin and 500 mg metformin HCl extended-release once daily with gradual dose escalation to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects due to metformin HCl. In patients treated with metformin HCl, the recommended starting dosage of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets should provide metformin HCl at the dose already being taken, or the nearest therapeutically appropriate dose. Following a switch from metformin HCl immediate-release to saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, closely monitor glycemic control and adjust the dosage accordingly. Patients who need 2.5 mg saxagliptin in combination with metformin HCl extended-release may be treated with saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets 2.5 mg/1,000 mg. Patients who need 2.5 mg saxagliptin who are either metformin HCl naive or who require a dose of metformin HCl higher than 1,000 mg should use the individual components. Gradually titrate the dosage of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, as needed, after assessing therapeutic response and tolerability, up to a maximum recommended dosage of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets (5 mg for saxagliptin and 2,000 mg for metformin HCl extended-release orally once daily). Inform patients that saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed, cut, or chewed. Occasionally, the inactive ingredients of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets will be eliminated in the feces as a soft, hydrated mass that may resemble the original tablet. If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose. 2.2 Recommendations for Dosage and Administration in Renal Impairment Assess renal function prior to initiation of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-r …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Extended-Release Tablets: • Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 5 mg/500 mg, are pink, film-coated, round, unscored tablets imprinted with SM3 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. • Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 5 mg/1000 mg, are pink, film-coated, capsule shaped, unscored tablets imprinted with SM6 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. • Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 2.5 mg/1000 mg, are light peach, film-coated, capsule shaped, unscored tablets imprinted with SM4 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. • 5 mg saxagliptin/500 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) • 5 mg saxagliptin/1000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) • 2.5 mg saxagliptin/1000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 )
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are contraindicated in patients with: • Severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ). • Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis should be treated with insulin. • A history of a serious hypersensitivity reaction to saxagliptin, metformin HCl, or any of the ingredients in saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. Reactions such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, or exfoliative skin conditions have been reported [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. • Severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ). ( 4 ) • Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. ( 4 ) • History of a serious hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema, exfoliative skin conditions) to saxagliptin, metformin HCl, or any of the ingredients in saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Pancreatitis: There have been postmarketing reports of acute pancreatitis. If pancreatitis is suspected, promptly discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. ( 5.2 ) • Heart Failure: Consider the risks and benefits of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets in patients who have known risk factors for heart failure. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms. ( 5.3 ) • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency: Metformin may lower vitamin B 12 levels. Measure hematological parameters annually. ( 5.4 ) • Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues: Consider a lower dosage of insulin or insulin secretagogue when used in combination with saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. ( 5.5 ) • Hypersensitivity-Related Events: There have been post-marketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, and exfoliative skin conditions in patients treated with saxagliptin. If hypersensitivity reactions occur, discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, treat promptly, and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve. ( 5.6 ) • Arthralgia: Severe and disabling arthralgia has been reported in patients taking DPP4 inhibitors. Consider as a possible cause for severe joint pain and discontinue drug if appropriate. ( 5.7 ) • Bullous Pemphigoid: There have been postmarketing reports of bullous pemphigoid requiring hospitalization in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Tell patients to report development of blisters or erosions. If bullous pemphigoid is suspected, discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets ( 5.8 ). 5.1 Lactic Acidosis There have been postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis, including fatal cases. These cases had a subtle onset and were accompanied by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, abdominal pain, respiratory distress, or increased somnolence; however, hypothermia, hypotension and resistant bradyarrhythmias have occurred with severe acidosis. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate concentrations (> 5 mmol/Liter), anion gap acidosis (without evidence of ketonuria or ketonemia), and an increased lactate: pyruvate ratio; metformin plasma levels generally > 5 mcg/mL. Metformin decreases liver uptake of lactate increasing lactate blood levels which may increase the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients at risk. If metformin-associated lactic acidosis is suspected, general supportive measures should be instituted promptly in a hospital setting, along with immediate discontinuation of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. In saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablet-treated patients with a diagnosis or strong suspicion of lactic acidosis, prompt hemodialysis is recommended to correct the acidosis and remove accumulated metformin (metformin HCl is dialyzable, with a clearance of up to 170 mL/minute under good hemodynamic conditions). Hemodialysis has often resulted in reversal of symptoms and recovery. Educate patients and their families about the symptoms of lactic acidosis and if these symptoms occur instruct them to discontinue saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets and report these symptoms to their health care provider. For each of the known and possible risk factors for metformin-associated lactic acidosis, recommendations to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis are provided below: Renal Impairment The post-marketing metformin-associated lactic acidosis cases primarily occurred in patients with significant renal impairment. The risk of metformin accumulation and metformin-associated lactic acidosis increases with the severity of renal impairment because metformin is substantially excreted by the kidney. Clinical recommendations base …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are described below or elsewhere in the prescribing information: • Lactic Acidosis [ see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Pancreatitis [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Heart Failure [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Hypersensitivity Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Severe and disabling arthralgia [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Bullous pemphigoid [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Most common adverse reactions with metformin HCl extended-release (incidence > 5% and more often than placebo) are: diarrhea and nausea/vomiting. ( 6.1 ) • Most common adverse reactions with saxagliptin (incidence ≥ 5% and more often than placebo) are: upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, and headache. ( 6.1 ) • Adverse reactions with coadministered saxagliptin and metformin HCl (incidence ≥ 5% and more often than placebo) are: headache and nasopharyngitis. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Mylan at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse Reactions in Placebo-Controlled Trials in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Metformin HCl In placebo-controlled monotherapy trials of metformin HCl extended-release, diarrhea and nausea/vomiting were reported in > 5% of metformin-treated patients and more commonly than in placebo-treated patients (9.6% versus 2.6% for diarrhea and 6.5% versus 1.5% for nausea/vomiting). Diarrhea led to discontinuation of trial medication in 0.6% of the patients treated with metformin HCl extended-release. Saxagliptin The data in Table 1 are derived from a pool of 5 placebo-controlled clinical trials [ see Clinical Studies (14) ]. These data shown in the table reflect exposure of 882 patients to saxagliptin and a mean duration of exposure to saxagliptin of 21 weeks. The mean age of these patients was 55 years, 1.4% were 75 years or older and 48.4% were male. The population was 67.5% White, 4.6% Black or African American, 17.4% Asian, 10.5% other races and 9.8% were of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. At baseline the population had diabetes for an average of 5.2 years and a mean HbA1c of 8.2%. Baseline estimated renal function was normal or mildly impaired (eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) in 91% of these patients. Table 1 shows common adverse reactions, excluding hypoglycemia, associated with the use of saxagliptin. These adverse reactions occurred more commonly on saxagliptin than on placebo and occurred in at least 5% of patients treated with saxagliptin. Table 1: Adverse Reactions in Placebo-Controlled Trials The 5 placebo-controlled trials include two monotherapy trials and one add-on combination therapy trial with each of the following: metformin HCl, thiazolidinedione, or glyburide. Table shows 24-week data regardless of glycemic rescue. Reported in ≥ 5% of Patients Treated with Saxagliptin 5 mg and More Commonly than in Patients Treated with Placebo % of Patients Saxagliptin 5 mg N = 882 Placebo N = 799 Upper respiratory tract infection 7.7 7.6 Urinary tract infection 6.8 6.1 Headache 6.5 5.9 In patients treated with saxagliptin 2.5 mg, headache (6.5%) was the only adverse reaction reported at a rate ≥ 5% and more commonly than in patients treated with placebo. In the add-on to TZD trial, the incidence of peripheral edema was higher for saxagliptin 5 mg versus placebo (8.1% and 4.3%, respectively). The incidence of peripheral edema for saxagliptin 2.5 …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug LabelingDrug Interactions The concomitant use of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets with specific drugs may increase the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis: those that impair renal function, result in significant hemodynamic change, interfere with acid-base balance or increase metformin accumulation [ see Drug Interactions (7) ]. Therefore, consider more frequent monitoring of patients.
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole): Coadministration with saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets significantly increases saxagliptin concentrations. Limit saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets dosage to 2.5 mg/1,000 mg once daily when coadministered with a strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitor. ( 2.3 , 7.1 ) • Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Consider more frequent monitoring. ( 7.2 ) • Drugs that reduce metformin clearance : May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Consider benefits and risks of concomitant use. ( 7.3 ) • See full prescribing information for additional drug interactions. ( 7 ) 7.1 Strong Inhibitors of CYP3A4/5 Enzymes Ketoconazole significantly increased saxagliptin exposure. Similar significant increases in plasma concentrations of saxagliptin are anticipated with other strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitors (e.g., atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and telithromycin). The dose of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets should be limited to 2.5 mg of saxagliptin when coadministered with a strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitor [ see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 7.2 Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors Topiramate or other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., zonisamide, acetazolamide or dichlorphenamide) frequently causes a decrease in serum bicarbonate and induce non-anion gap, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. Concomitant use of these drugs with saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets may increase the risk for lactic acidosis. 7.3 Drugs that Reduce Metformin Clearance Concomitant use of drugs that interfere with common renal tubular transport systems involved in the renal elimination of metformin (e.g., organic cationic transporter-2 [OCT2]/multidrug and toxin extrusion [MATE] inhibitors such as ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir, and cimetidine) could increase systemic exposure to metformin and may increase the risk for lactic acidosis [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Consider the benefits and risks of concomitant use. 7.4 Alcohol Alcohol is known to potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. Warn patients against excessive alcohol intake while receiving saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets. 7.5 Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues Insulin and insulin secretagogues are known to cause hypoglycemia. Concomitant use of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets with insulin or an insulin secretagogue may require lower dosages of insulin or the insulin secretagogue to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ]. 7.6 Drugs Affecting Glycemic Control Certain drugs tend to produce hyperglycemia and may lead to loss of glycemic control. These medications include the thiazides and other diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blocking drugs, and isoniazid. When such drugs are administered to a patient receiving saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, observe the patient closely for loss of blood glucose control. When such drugs are withdrawn from a patient receiving saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, observe the patient closely for hypoglycemia.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Geriatric Use: Assess renal function more frequently. ( 8.5 ) • Hepatic Impairment: Avoid use in patients with hepatic impairment. ( 8.7 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Limited available data with saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets or saxagliptin in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. Published trials with metformin use during pregnancy have not reported a clear association with metformin and major birth defect or miscarriage risk [ see Data ]. No adverse developmental effects independent of maternal toxicity were observed when saxagliptin and metformin were administered separately or in combination to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis [ see Data ]. The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6 to 10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with an HbA1c greater than 7 and has been reported to be as high as 20 to 25% in women with an HbA1c greater than 10. The estimated background risk of miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, still birth and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia related morbidity. Data Animal Data Saxagliptin In embryo-fetal development studies, saxagliptin was administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis, corresponding to the first trimester of human pregnancy. No adverse developmental effects were observed in either species at exposures 1503- and 152-times the 5 mg clinical dose in rats and rabbits, respectively, based on AUC. Saxagliptin crosses the placenta into the fetus following dosing in pregnant rats. In a prenatal and postnatal development study, no adverse developmental effects were observed in maternal rats administered saxagliptin from gestation day 6 through lactation day 21 at exposures up to 470-times the 5 mg clinical dose, based on AUC. Metformin HCl Metformin HCl did not cause adverse developmental effect when administered to pregnant Sprague Dawley rats and rabbits up to 600 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis. This represents an exposure of about 2- and 6-times a 2,000 mg clinical dose based on body surface area (mg/m 2 ) for rats and rabbits, respectively. Saxagliptin and Metformin Saxagliptin and metformin coadministered to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis did not result in adverse developmental effects considered clinically relevant in either species. Doses tested in rats provided exposure up to 100- and 10-times clinical exposure, and doses tested in rabbits provided exposure up to 249- and 1-times clinical exposure relative to the clinical dose of 5 mg saxagliptin and 2,000 mg metformin. Minor skeletal abnormalities associated with maternal toxicity were observed in rats. In rabbits, coadministration was poorly tolerated in a subset of mothers (12 of 30), resulting in death, moribundity, or abortion. However, among surviving mothers with evaluable litters, maternal toxicity was limited to marginal reductions in body weight over the course of gestation days 21 to 29, associated with fetal body weight decrements of 7%, and a low incidence of delayed ossification of the fetal hyoid bone. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is no information regarding the presence of saxagliptin and metformin or saxagliptin in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Limited published studies report that metformin is present in h …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets contain two antihyperglycemic medications: saxagliptin, a dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitor, and metformin HCl, a biguanide. Saxagliptin Increased concentrations of the incretin hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are released into the bloodstream from the small intestine in response to meals. These hormones cause insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner but are inactivated by the DPP4 enzyme within minutes. GLP-1 also lowers glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells, reducing hepatic glucose production. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, concentrations of GLP-1 are reduced but the insulin response to GLP-1 is preserved. Saxagliptin is a competitive DPP4 inhibitor that slows the inactivation of the incretin hormones, thereby increasing their bloodstream concentrations and reducing fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations in a glucose-dependent manner in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Metformin HCl Metformin improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike sulfonylureas, metformin does not produce hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or in healthy subjects except in unusual circumstances [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] and does not cause hyperinsulinemia. With metformin therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin response may actually decrease.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets contain two oral antihyperglycemic medications used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus: saxagliptin and metformin HCl. Saxagliptin Saxagliptin is an orally active inhibitor of the dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 (DPP4) enzyme. Saxagliptin hydrochloride dihydrate is described chemically as (1S,3S,5S)-2-[(2S)-Amino-(3-hydroxytricyclo[3.3.1.1 3,7 ]dec-1-yl)acetyl]-2-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-3-carbonitrile hydrochloride dihydrate or (1S,3S,5S)-2-[(2S)-2-Amino-2-(3-hydroxyadamantan-1-yl)acetyl]-2-azabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane-3-carbonitrile hydrochloride dihydrate. The empirical formula is C 18 H 25 N 3 O 2 •HCl•2 H 2 O and the molecular weight is 387.92. The structural formula is: Saxagliptin hydrochloride dihydrate is a white to off white, non-hygroscopic, crystalline powder. It is sparingly soluble in water at 24°C ± 3°C, slightly soluble in ethyl acetate, and soluble in methanol, ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetonitrile, acetone, and polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400). Metformin HCl Metformin hydrochloride, USP (1,1-Dimethylbiguanide monohydrochloride) is a white, crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C 4 H 11 N 5 •HCl and a molecular weight of 165.62. Metformin HCl is freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol, and is practically insoluble in acetone, ether, and chloroform. The pKa of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin HCl is 6.36. The structural formula is: Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets Saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets are available for oral administration as tablets containing either 6.149 mg saxagliptin hydrochloride dihydrate equivalent to 5 mg saxagliptin and 500 mg metformin hydrochloride (saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets 5 mg/500 mg), or 6.149 mg saxagliptin hydrochloride dihydrate equivalent to 5 mg saxagliptin and 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride (saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets 5 mg/1000 mg), or 3.075 mg saxagliptin hydrochloride dihydrate equivalent to 2.5 mg saxagliptin and 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride (saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets 2.5 mg/1000 mg). Each film-coated tablet of saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride extended-release contains the following inactive ingredients: carbomer homopolymer type A, colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, povidone, red iron oxide, stearic acid, talc and titanium dioxide. The 2.5 mg/1000 mg tablets also contain yellow iron oxide. In addition, the black imprinting ink contains ammonium hydroxide, black iron oxide, propylene glycol and shellac glaze. The biologically inert components of the tablet may occasionally remain intact during gastrointestinal transit and will be eliminated in the feces as a soft, hydrated mass. Saxagliptin Hydrochloride Dihydrate Structural Formula Metformin Hydrochloride Structural Formula
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE Saxagliptin In a controlled clinical trial, once-daily, orally administered saxagliptin in healthy subjects at doses up to 400 mg daily for 2 weeks (80-times the MRHD) had no dose-related clinical adverse reactions and no clinically meaningful effect on QTc interval or heart rate. In the event of an overdose, initiate appropriate supportive treatment as dictated by the patient’s clinical status. Saxagliptin and its active metabolite are removed by hemodialysis (23% of dose over 4 hours). Contact the Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations. Metformin HCl Overdose of metformin HCl has occurred, including ingestion of amounts greater than 50 grams. Hypoglycemia was reported in approximately 10% of cases, but no causal association with metformin HCl has been established. Lactic acidosis has been reported in approximately 32% of metformin overdose cases [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Metformin is dialyzable with a clearance of up to 170 mL/min under good hemodynamic conditions. Therefore, hemodialysis may be useful for removal of accumulated drug from patients in whom metformin overdosage is suspected.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING How Supplied Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 5 mg/500 mg, are pink, film-coated, round, unscored tablets imprinted with SM3 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-8175-93 bottles of 30 tablets Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 5 mg/1000 mg, are pink, film-coated, capsule shaped, unscored tablets imprinted with SM6 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-8177-93 bottles of 30 tablets Saxagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, 2.5 mg/1000 mg, are light peach, film-coated, capsule shaped, unscored tablets imprinted with SM4 over M in black ink on one side of the tablet and blank on the other side. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-8176-91 bottles of 60 tablets Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure. PHARMACIST: Dispense a Medication Guide with each prescription.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0378-8175-93 | 0378-8175 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 30 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-8175-93) | August 8, 2023 |
| 0378-8176-91 | 0378-8176 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-8176-91) | August 8, 2023 |
| 0378-8177-93 | 0378-8177 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 30 TABLET, FILM COATED, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-8177-93) | August 8, 2023 |
| 0378-8175 | 0378-8175 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | August 8, 2023 |
| 0378-8176 | 0378-8176 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | August 8, 2023 |
| 0378-8177 | 0378-8177 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | August 8, 2023 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.