Question 1

What is Synjardy?

Accepted Answer

Synjardy is a medication that combines two different glucose-lowering agents, empagliflozin and metformin. Empagliflozin belongs to a class of drugs known as sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and metformin is a biguanide.

These components work through different mechanisms to help manage the amount of sugar in the blood. Empagliflozin helps the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream through urine, while metformin decreases the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improves the body's response to naturally occurring insulin.

Question 2

What is Synjardy used for?

Accepted Answer

Synjardy is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus .

Question 3

How does Synjardy work?

Accepted Answer

Dual Action for Blood Sugar Control

Synjardy contains two active ingredients, empagliflozin and metformin, which use different mechanisms to help manage blood glucose levels.

How Empagliflozin Works

Empagliflozin is part of a class of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works primarily through the kidneys. Normally, the kidneys filter sugar out of the blood and then reabsorb it back into the bloodstream. Empagliflozin blocks this reabsorption process, which allows the body to get rid of excess sugar through urination.

How Metformin Works

Metformin belongs to a class of medications known as biguanides. It helps lower blood sugar in three distinct ways:

Reducing sugar production: It decreases the amount of glucose that the liver produces and releases into the blood.

Improving insulin sensitivity: It helps the body respond more effectively to the insulin it naturally produces, allowing cells to use sugar for energy more efficiently.

Decreasing sugar absorption: It reduces the amount of sugar the body absorbs from the food you eat during digestion.

By combining these two approaches, Synjardy helps provide more comprehensive blood sugar management than either medication might provide on its own.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Synjardy?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredients in Synjardy are empagliflozin and metformin .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Synjardy?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Synjardy may include:

urinary tract infection

genital yeast infection

diarrhea

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Synjardy?

Accepted Answer

Synjardy belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor and biguanide combination drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Synjardy and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

How to Take Synjardy

Synjardy is taken by mouth, usually once or twice daily depending on the specific formulation prescribed. It is important to take this medication with meals to help lower the chance of having an upset stomach, which is a common side effect of the metformin component.

When taking this medication, follow these general guidelines:

Take the tablets at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of medicine in your body.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets, as this can interfere with how the medicine is released into your system.

Drink plenty of water and other fluids as directed by your healthcare provider while taking this medication.

Continue to follow the diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor, as this medication works best when used alongside these lifestyle changes.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Synjardy, take it as soon as you remember with food. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Synjardy safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Information regarding the use of Synjardy during pregnancy is limited. However, the empagliflozin component of this medication is not recommended during the second and third trimesters. Animal studies suggest that empagliflozin may affect the development of the baby's kidneys during these stages of pregnancy.

The metformin component may increase the likelihood of pregnancy in some individuals by stimulating ovulation in premenopausal people who do not have regular periods. If you are of childbearing age, discuss birth control options with your healthcare provider.

If you become pregnant while taking this medication, notify your doctor immediately. They may recommend alternative treatments, such as insulin, to manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while taking Synjardy. It is not known if empagliflozin passes into human breast milk, but animal studies have shown it can be present and may pose a risk to the nursing infant's kidney development. Metformin is known to pass into breast milk in small amounts. Because of the potential for serious side effects in a nursing child, you should talk to your doctor about whether to stop the medication or stop breastfeeding.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Synjardy come in?

Accepted Answer

Synjardy is available as a film-coated tablet for oral use. It is produced in different formulations:

Immediate-release tablets: These tablets release the active ingredients into the body shortly after ingestion.

Extended-release tablets: These tablets are designed to release the medication slowly over a longer period.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Synjardy?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval History

The FDA first approved Synjardy in August 2015 for use in adults with type 2 diabetes. In June 2023, the FDA expanded the approved use of Synjardy and Synjardy XR to include pediatric patients aged 10 years and older, providing a new oral treatment option for children with the condition.

Boxed Warning

Synjardy contains a Boxed Warning, the most serious type of warning required by the FDA. This warning concerns the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious metabolic complication caused by the accumulation of metformin. This condition can be fatal and requires immediate hospitalization. Risk factors include kidney impairment, certain drug interactions, age 65 or older, and radiological studies using contrast dye.

Approved Indications

Synjardy is indicated as an addition to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in:

Adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Pediatric patients aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The medication is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, or those receiving dialysis.

Question 11

What should I know about Synjardy and cost?

Accepted Answer

Factors Influencing Cost

The price of Synjardy can be affected by several factors, including:

Insurance Coverage: Most commercial insurance and Medicare Part D plans provide coverage for Synjardy, but the out-of-pocket cost or copayment will depend on the specific plan's formulary tier.

Pharmacy Choice: Prices may differ between retail pharmacies, mail-order services, and specialty pharmacies.

Dosage and Quantity: The strength of the medication and the number of tablets dispensed per refill can impact the total price.

Generic Availability

Synjardy is a brand-name combination medication containing empagliflozin and metformin. While metformin is available as a low-cost generic on its own, the combination product is generally available only as a brand-name drug, which typically costs more than generic alternatives.

Financial Assistance

The manufacturer may offer savings cards or patient assistance programs to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses for eligible individuals. Patients should check with their healthcare provider or the manufacturer for current assistance options if they are uninsured or underinsured.

Synjardy

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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