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Sitagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 1000 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 500 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
| Metformin Hydrochloride | 850 mg/1 | 860975 | View |
| Sitagliptin | 50 mg/1 | 665033 | View |
| Sitagliptin Phosphate | 50 mg/1 | 2709603 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 216743-001 | ZITUVIMET | TABLET | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE; SITAGLIPTIN | Prescription | — | RLD | |
| 216743-002 | ZITUVIMET | TABLET | METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE; SITAGLIPTIN | Prescription | — | RLD RS |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookCodes 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 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 5 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | May 29, 2025 | N/A |
| Original application | 1 | Type 5 - New Formulation or New Manufacturer | Approved | November 3, 2023 | Standard |
Review documents
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260812). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS WARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . Postmarketing 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 sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended. ( 5.1 ) Postmarketing 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 sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingRECENT MAJOR CHANGES Boxed Warning 08/2026 Warnings and Precautions, Lactic Acidosis ( 5.1 ) 08/2026
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is a combination of sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) 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: Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is not recommended in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. ( 1 ) Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis. ( 1 ) Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Limitations of Use Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is not recommended in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis. It is unknown whether patients with a history of pancreatitis are at increased risk for the development of pancreatitis while using sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )].
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Take sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets orally twice daily with meals. ( 2.1 ) • Individualize the dosage of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets on the basis of the patient’s current regimen, effectiveness, and tolerability. ( 2.1 ) • The maximum recommended daily dose is 100 mg of sitagliptin and 2,000 mg of metformin HCl. ( 2.1 ) • The recommended starting dose in patients not currently treated with metformin is 50 mg sitagliptin and 500 mg metformin HCl twice daily, with gradual dose escalation recommended to reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with metformin. ( 2.1 ) • The starting dose in patients already treated with metformin should provide sitagliptin dosed as 50 mg twice daily (100 mg total daily dose) and the dose of metformin already being taken. For patients taking metformin HCl 850 mg twice daily, the recommended starting dose of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is 50 mg and 1,000 mg metformin HCl twice daily. ( 2.1 ) • Prior to initiation, assess renal function with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ( 2.2 ) o Do not use in patients with eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . o Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets are not recommended in patients with eGFR between 30 and less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . • Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets may need to be discontinued at time of, or prior to, iodinated contrast imaging procedures. ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosing • Take sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets orally twice daily with meals. • Individualize the dosage of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets on the basis of the patient’s current regimen, effectiveness, and tolerability. • The maximum recommended daily dose is 100 mg of sitagliptin and 2,000 mg of metformin hydrochloride (HCl). • Do not split or divide sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets. • The recommended starting dose in patients not currently treated with metformin is 50 mg sitagliptin and 500 mg metformin HCl twice daily, with gradual dose escalation recommended to reduce gastrointestinal side effects associated with metformin. • The starting dose in patients already treated with metformin should provide sitagliptin dosed as 50 mg twice daily (100 mg total daily dose) and the dose of metformin already being taken. For patients taking metformin HCl 850 mg twice daily, the recommended starting dose of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is 50 mg sitagliptin and 1,000 mg metformin HCl twice daily. 2.2 Recommendations for Use in Renal Impairment • Assess renal function prior to initiation of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets and periodically thereafter. • Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 [see Contraindications ( 4 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. • Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets are not recommended in patients with an eGFR between 30 and less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 because these patients require a lower dosage of sitagliptin than what is available in the fixed combination sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride product. 2.3 Discontinuation for Iodinated Contrast Imaging Procedures Discontinue sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets at the time of, or prior to, an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure; restart sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets if renal function is stable [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )].
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride Tablets: • sitagliptin 50 mg and metformin HCl 500 mg tablets • sitagliptin 50 mg and metformin HCl 1,000 mg tablets ( 3 ) Tablets: sitagliptin 50 mg and metformin HCl 500 mg tablets are white to off-white, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with "1786" on one side and plain on the other side. sitagliptin 50 mg and metformin HCl 1,000 mg tablets are reddish brown, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with "1787" on one side and plain on the other side.
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS 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 to sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets, sitagliptin, or metformin, such as anaphylaxis or angioedema. (4) Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets is contraindicated in patients with: Severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )]. Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis. History of a serious hypersensitivity reaction to sitagliptin, metformin, or any of the excipients in sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets. Serious hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis or angioedema have been reported. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )].
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Lactic Acidosis : See boxed warning. ( 5.1 ) • Pancreatitis: There have been postmarketing reports of acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis. If pancreatitis is suspected, promptly discontinue sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. ( 5.2 ) • Heart Failure: Has been observed with two other members of the DPP-4 inhibitor class. Consider risks and benefits of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride in patients who have known risk factors for heart failure. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms. ( 5.3 ) • Acute Renal Failure: Has been reported postmarketing, sometimes requiring dialysis. Before initiating sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride and at least annually thereafter, assess renal function. ( 5.4 ) • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency: Metformin may lower vitamin B 12 levels. Measure hematologic parameters annually and vitamin B 12 at 2 to 3 year intervals and manage any abnormalities. ( 5.5 ) • Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues: Increased risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with insulin and/or an insulin secretagogue. A lower dose of insulin or insulin secretagogue may be required. ( 5.6 ) • Hypersensitivity Reactions: There have been postmarketing reports of serious allergic and hypersensitivity reactions in patients treated with sitagliptin such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, and exfoliative skin conditions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Promptly stop sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride, assess for other potential causes, institute appropriate monitoring and treatment. ( 5.7 ) • Severe and Disabling Arthralgia: Has been reported in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Consider as a possible cause for severe joint pain and discontinue drug if appropriate. ( 5.8 ) • Bullous Pemphigoid: There have been postmarketing reports requiring hospitalization in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Tell patients to report development of blisters or erosions. If bullous pemphigoid is suspected, discontinue sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. ( 5.9 ) 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 were 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 sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. In sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride-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/min 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 sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride 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 postmarketing metformin-associated lacti …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are also discussed elsewhere in the labeling: • Lactic Acidosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Heart Failure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] • Acute Renal Failure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Vitamin B12 Deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] • Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] • Severe and Disabling Arthralgia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] • Bullous Pemphigoid [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] • The most common adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of patients simultaneously started on sitagliptin and metformin and more commonly than in patients treated with placebo were diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, and headache. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sandoz Inc., at 1-800-525-8747 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. Sitagliptin and Metformin Coadministration in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Diet and Exercise Table 1 summarizes the most common (≥5% of patients) adverse reactions reported (regardless of investigator assessment of causality) in a 24-week placebo-controlled factorial study in which sitagliptin and metformin were coadministered to patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on diet and exercise. Table 1: Sitagliptin and Metformin Coadministered to Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Diet and Exercise: Adverse Reactions Reported (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) in ≥5% of Patients Receiving Combination Therapy (and Greater than in Patients Receiving Placebo) * Table 1: Sitagliptin and Metformin Coadministered to Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Diet and Exercise: Adverse Reactions Reported (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) in ≥5% of Patients Receiving Combination Therapy (and Greater than in Patients Receiving Placebo) * Number of Patients (%) Placebo Sitagliptin 100 mg once daily Metformin HCl 500 mg/ Metformin HCl 1,000 mg twice daily † Sitagliptin 50 mg twice daily + Metformin HCl 500 mg/ Metformin HCl 1,000 mg twice daily † N = 176 N = 179 N = 364 † N = 372 † Diarrhea 7 (4.0) 5 (2.8) 28 (7.7) 28 (7.5) Upper Respiratory Tract Infection 9 (5.1) 8 (4.5) 19 (5.2) 23 (6.2) Headache 5 (2.8) 2 (1.1) 14 (3.8) 22 (5.9) * Intent-to-treat population. † Data pooled for the patients given the lower and higher doses of metformin. Sitagliptin Add-on Therapy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled on Metformin Alone In a 24-week placebo-controlled trial of sitagliptin 100 mg administered once daily added to a twice daily metformin regimen, there were no adverse reactions reported regardless of investigator assessment of causality in ≥5% of patients and more commonly than in patients given placebo. Discontinuation of therapy due to clinical adverse reactions was similar to the placebo treatment group (sitagliptin and metformin, 1.9%; placebo and metformin, 2.5%). Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions The incidences of pre-selected gastrointestinal adverse experiences in patients treated with sitagliptin and metformin were similar to those reported for patients treated with metformin alone. See Table 2 . Table 2: Pre-selected Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions (Regardless of Investigator Assessment of Causality) Reported in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Receiving Sitagliptin and Metformin Table 2: Pre-selected Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions (Regardless of Investi …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Table 4 presents clinically significant drug interactions with sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets: Table 4: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Sitagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors Clinical Impact: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors frequently cause a decrease in serum bicarbonate and induce non-anion gap, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. Concomitant use of these drugs with sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets may increase the risk for lactic acidosis. Intervention: Consider more frequent monitoring of these patients. Examples: Topiramate, zonisamide, acetazolamide or dichlorphenamide. Drugs that Reduce Metformin Clearance Clinical Impact: 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 [OCT 2 ] / multidrug and toxin extrusion [MATE] inhibitors) could increase systemic exposure to metformin and may increase the risk for lactic acidosis [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )]. Intervention: Consider the benefits and risks of concomitant use with sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets. Examples: Ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir, and cimetidine. Alcohol Clinical Impact: Alcohol is known to potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. Intervention: Warn patients against alcohol intake while receiving sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets. Insulin Secretagogues or Insulin Clinical Impact : Coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Intervention: Patients receiving an insulin secretagogue or insulin may require lower doses of the insulin secretagogue or insulin. Drugs Affecting Glycemic Control Clinical Impact: Certain drugs tend to produce hyperglycemia and may lead to loss of glycemic control. Intervention: When such drugs are administered to a patient receiving sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets, observe the patient closely for loss of blood glucose control. When such drugs are withdrawn from a patient receiving sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets, observe the patient closely for hypoglycemia. Examples: Thiazides and other diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blockers, and isoniazid. Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may increase risk of lactic acidosis. Consider more frequent monitoring. ( 7 ) Drugs that reduce metformin clearance (such as ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir, and cimetidine) may increase the accumulation of metformin. Consider the benefits and risks of concomitant use. ( 7 ) Alcohol can potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. Warn patients against excessive alcohol intake. ( 7 )
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Advise premenopausal females of the potential for an unintended pregnancy. ( 8.3 ) • 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 The limited available data with sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. Published studies with metformin use during pregnancy have not reported a clear association with metformin and major birth defect or miscarriage risk [see Data] . There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy [see Clinical Considerations] . No adverse developmental effects were observed when sitagliptin was administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at oral doses up to 30-times and 20-times, respectively, the 100 mg clinical dose, based on AUC. No adverse developmental effects were observed when metformin was administered to pregnant Sprague Dawley rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses up to 2-and 6-times, respectively, a 2,000 mg clinical dose, based on body surface area [see Data] . The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6-10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with a Hemoglobin A1c >7% and has been reported to be as high as 20-25% in women with a Hemoglobin A1c >10%. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20% respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk Poorly controlled diabetes in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for diabetic ketoacidosis, pre-eclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, still birth, and macrosomia related morbidity. Data Human Data Published data from post-marketing studies do not report a clear association with metformin and major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes when metformin is used during pregnancy. However, these studies cannot definitely establish the absence of any risk because of methodological limitations, including small sample size and inconsistent comparator groups. Animal Data Sitagliptin and Metformin No animal reproduction studies were conducted with the coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin. Sitagliptin In embryo-fetal development studies, sitagliptin administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis (gestation day 6 to 20) did not adversely affect developmental outcomes at oral doses up to 250 mg/kg (30-times the 100 mg clinical dose) and 125 mg/kg (20-times the 100 mg clinical dose), respectively, based on AUC. Higher doses in rats associated with maternal toxicity increased the incidence of rib malformations in offspring at 1,000 mg/kg, or approximately 100-times the clinical dose, based on AUC. Placental transfer of sitagliptin was observed in pregnant rats and rabbits. Sitagliptin administered to female rats from gestation day 6 to lactation day 21 caused no functional or behavioral toxicity in offspring of rats at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg. Metformin Metformin did not cause adverse developmental effects 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. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is no information regarding the presence of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Limited published studies report that metformin is present in human milk [see Data] . There are …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Sitagliptin and Metformin hydrochloride Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets combines two antihyperglycemic agents with complementary mechanisms of action to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin HCl, a member of the biguanide class. Sitagliptin Sitagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor, which is believed to exert its actions in patients with type 2 diabetes by slowing the inactivation of incretin hormones. Concentrations of the active intact hormones are increased by sitagliptin, thereby increasing and prolonging the action of these hormones. Incretin hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), are released by the intestine throughout the day, and levels are increased in response to a meal. These hormones are rapidly inactivated by the enzyme DPP-4. The incretins are part of an endogenous system involved in the physiologic regulation of glucose homeostasis. When blood glucose concentrations are normal or elevated, GLP-1 and GIP increase insulin synthesis and release from pancreatic beta cells by intracellular signaling pathways involving cyclic AMP. GLP-1 also lowers glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells, leading to reduced hepatic glucose production. By increasing and prolonging active incretin levels, sitagliptin increases insulin release and decreases glucagon levels in the circulation in a glucose-dependent manner. Sitagliptin demonstrates selectivity for DPP-4 and does not inhibit DPP-8 or DPP-9 activity in vitro at concentrations approximating those from therapeutic doses. Metformin Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent which 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. With metformin therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin response may decrease.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets for oral use contain two oral antihyperglycemic drugs: sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. Sitagliptin Sitagliptin is an orally-active inhibitor of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme. Sitagliptin is present in Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets in the form of sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate. Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is described chemically as 7-[(3 R )-3-amino-1-oxo-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl)butyl]-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3- a ]pyrazine phosphate (1:1) monohydrate with a molecular formula of C 16 H 15 F 6 N 5 O•H 3 PO 4 •H 2 O and a molecular weight of 523.32. The structural formula is: Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is a white to off-white, crystalline, non-hygroscopic powder. It is soluble in water and N,N-dimethyl formamide; slightly soluble in methanol; very slightly soluble in ethanol, acetone, and acetonitrile; and insoluble in isopropanol and isopropyl acetate. Metformin hydrochloride Metformin hydrochloride ( N , N -dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide hydrochloride) is not chemically or pharmacologically related to any other classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents. Metformin hydrochloride is a white crystalline powder with a molecular formula of C 4 H 11 N 5 •HCl and a molecular weight of 165.63. Metformin hydrochloride is freely soluble in water and is practically insoluble in acetone, ether, and chloroform. The pK a of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin hydrochloride is 6.68. The structural formula is as shown: Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride are available for oral administration as tablets containing 64.25 mg sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate and metformin hydrochloride equivalent to: 50 mg sitagliptin as free base and 500 mg metformin hydrochloride (Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride 50 mg/500 mg) or 1,000 mg metformin hydrochloride (Sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride 50 mg/1,000 mg). Each film-coated tablet of sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride contains the following inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone K30, sodium lauryl sulfate, and sodium stearyl fumarate. In addition, the film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: ferric oxide red, ferric oxide yellow, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, talc, titanium dioxide, and triethyl citrate. sitagliptin chemical structure metformin chemical structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE In the event of overdose with sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride tablets, consider contacting the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations. Employ the usual supportive measures dictated by the patient's clinical status. Per clinical judgement, consider removal of unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, and clinical monitoring (including obtaining an ECG). Sitagliptin is modestly dialyzable. In clinical studies, approximately 13.5% of the dose was removed over a 3- to 4-hour hemodialysis session. Prolonged hemodialysis may be considered if clinically appropriate. It is not known if sitagliptin is dialyzable by peritoneal dialysis. Overdose of metformin has occurred, including ingestion of amounts greater than 50 grams. Hypoglycemia was reported in approximately 10% of cases, but no causal association with metformin 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 Tablets supplied as follows: Contents Description How Supplied NDC 50 mg sitagliptin and 500 mg metformin HCl White to off-white, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with "1786" on one side and plain on the other side. Bottles of 60 tablets with child-resistant closure. NDC 70710-1986-6 Bottles of 180 tablets with child-resistant closure. NDC 70710-1986-8 50 mg sitagliptin and 1,000 mg metformin HCl Reddish brown, oval shaped, biconvex, film coated tablets debossed with "1787" on one side and plain on the other side Bottles of 60 tablets with child-resistant closure. NDC 70710-1987-6 Bottles of 180 tablets with child-resistant closure. NDC 70710-1987-8 Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F), [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from moisture.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: SITAGLIPTIN. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60505-3658-6 | 60505-3658 | Apotex Corp. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (60505-3658-6) | May 28, 2026 |
| 60505-3658-7 | 60505-3658 | Apotex Corp. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (60505-3658-7) | May 28, 2026 |
| 60505-3659-6 | 60505-3659 | Apotex Corp. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (60505-3659-6) | May 28, 2026 |
| 60505-3659-7 | 60505-3659 | Apotex Corp. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (60505-3659-7) | May 28, 2026 |
| 84677-052-18 | 84677-052 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (84677-052-18) | June 1, 2026 |
| 84677-052-60 | 84677-052 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (84677-052-60) | June 1, 2026 |
| 84677-053-18 | 84677-053 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (84677-053-18) | June 1, 2026 |
| 84677-053-60 | 84677-053 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (84677-053-60) | June 1, 2026 |
| 64176-0003-0 | 64176-0003 | MSD International GmbH (Singapore Branch) | 1 BAG in 1 DRUM (64176-0003-0) / 42900 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BAG | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-001-00 | 55370-001 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | 36284 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 CONTAINER (55370-001-00) | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-002-00 | 55370-002 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | 22381 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 CONTAINER (55370-002-00) | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-003-00 | 55370-003 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | 19231 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 CONTAINER (55370-003-00) | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-006-00 | 55370-006 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | 22381 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 CONTAINER (55370-006-00) | March 30, 2007 |
| 0781-5801-05 | 0781-5801 | Sandoz Inc | 500 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5801-05) | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5801-60 | 0781-5801 | Sandoz Inc | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5801-60) | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5801-71 | 0781-5801 | Sandoz Inc | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5801-71) | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5802-60 | 0781-5802 | Sandoz Inc | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5802-60) | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5802-71 | 0781-5802 | Sandoz Inc | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5802-71) | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5802-73 | 0781-5802 | Sandoz Inc | 350 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0781-5802-73) | December 2, 2025 |
| 70771-1869-6 | 70771-1869 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1869-6) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70771-1869-8 | 70771-1869 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1869-8) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70771-1870-6 | 70771-1870 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1870-6) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70771-1870-8 | 70771-1870 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70771-1870-8) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1986-6 | 70710-1986 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1986-6) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1986-8 | 70710-1986 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1986-8) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1987-6 | 70710-1987 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1987-6) | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1987-8 | 70710-1987 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | 180 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (70710-1987-8) | March 14, 2024 |
| 60505-3658 | 60505-3658 | Apotex Corp. | — | May 28, 2026 |
| 60505-3659 | 60505-3659 | Apotex Corp. | — | May 28, 2026 |
| 84677-052 | 84677-052 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | — | April 30, 2026 |
| 84677-053 | 84677-053 | Golden State Medical Supply, Inc. | — | April 30, 2026 |
| 64176-0003 | 64176-0003 | MSD International GmbH (Singapore Branch) | — | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-001 | 55370-001 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | — | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-002 | 55370-002 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | — | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-003 | 55370-003 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | — | March 30, 2007 |
| 55370-006 | 55370-006 | Patheon Puerto Rico, Inc. | — | March 30, 2007 |
| 0781-5801 | 0781-5801 | Sandoz Inc | — | December 2, 2025 |
| 0781-5802 | 0781-5802 | Sandoz Inc | — | December 2, 2025 |
| 70771-1869 | 70771-1869 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | March 14, 2024 |
| 70771-1870 | 70771-1870 | Zydus Lifesciences Limited | — | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1986 | 70710-1986 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | — | March 14, 2024 |
| 70710-1987 | 70710-1987 | Zydus Pharmaceuticals (USA) Inc. | — | March 14, 2024 |
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 |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.