Diabetes is a very common health condition that many people in our country are suffering from. So your doctor has probably prescribed you treatment for this. If you have received a pill that combines two drugs called Empagliflozin and Metformin, this article will be very important for you. Let's talk about this medicine, what it does, and what you need to be careful about while using it.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine is used to treat Type 2 Diabetes . The two drugs in this medicine work together to help control and lower the blood sugar (glucose) levels in your body.
But remember one thing. This medicine alone is not enough. Along with this, proper diet and exercise are essential. Only when these three are combined can you get the best results.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
It is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health history. Because that information will help them decide whether this medicine is right for you or whether the dosage needs to be changed. If you have any of the conditions below, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Health condition or habit | Why is notification important? |
|---|---|
| Kidney or liver disease | Because drugs are eliminated from the body through these organs, it is important to know how they work. |
| Heart disease or high cholesterol | This should be reported as it can affect heart conditions. |
| Frequent drinking | There is a risk of serious side effects with alcohol. |
| Dehydration, vomiting, or a low-salt diet | Low body fluid levels can cause problems with this medication. |
| If you have had diabetic ketoacidosis before | This is a serious situation. The doctor should be aware of it. |
| Frequent urinary tract infections or genital yeast infections | This medicine may slightly increase the risk of developing such infections. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | This medication is not suitable in these cases, and it is essential to seek medical advice. |
| If you are going to undergo any surgery | The medication may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery. |
| If you have allergies to other medicines, foods, or dyes | It is important to inform about any allergies. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is also very simple.
- Take this tablet with a meal with a glass of water. Avoid taking on an empty stomach.
- Take the medicine as prescribed by the doctor, at the right time.
- Never stop taking medication or increase or decrease the dosage without your doctor's advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What do you do if you drink too much?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, take action immediately. Don't delay. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
It's very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, not just the ones prescribed by your doctor, but also the vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you take. Some medications can interact with these and cause problems.
In particular, some contrast agents injected into the body before tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs should not be taken with this medicine at all. Also, do not take the drug dofetilide.
In addition, many other medications, such as those for high blood pressure, heart disease, HIV, hormones, and steroids, can interact with this. Therefore, it is best to give your doctor a list of all the medications you are taking.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
It's a good idea to pay a little more attention to your body while taking this medicine.
- Blood sugar levels: Learn how to measure your blood sugar levels. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Keep a sugar cube or a piece of candy nearby to use if you experience symptoms of low blood sugar.
- HbA1C test: Your doctor will ask you to take a blood test called HbA1C every 3 to 6 months. This can help you see how your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months.
- Don't skip meals: Eat at the right time.
- Serious conditions: Although rare, this medicine may cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis, in which the level of acid in the blood increases. If you experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, extreme tiredness, or difficulty breathing , stop taking the medicine immediately and call your doctor.
- Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid: Taking this medicine for a long time may decrease the levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid in the body. Therefore, be sure to eat a nutritious diet. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe you a vitamin supplement.
- Medical ID: If you wear a card or bracelet that says you have diabetes and the medications you take, it can be very useful in an emergency.
Possible side effects
Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Some are serious, some are common. It's important to be aware of these.
| Symptoms that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Excessive thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting. |
| Lactic acidosis (High lactic acid) | Muscle pain or cramps, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue. |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Burning during urination, frequent urination, blood or dark urine, lower abdominal or back pain. |
| Genital infections | Redness, swelling, pain, itching, odor, or thick discharge. |
| Symptoms that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence |
| Gas | Filling the stomach |
| Headache | Headache |
| Metallic taste in the mouth | An iron-like taste in the mouth |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting |
Take-Home Message
- Always take this medicine as prescribed by your doctor, with a meal.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take and all other medical conditions you have.
- Be aware of the symptoms of serious side effects (such as difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, vomiting) and seek medical advice immediately if any of these occur.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with others.
- Never stop taking medication or change the dosage without medical advice. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
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