Empagliflozin And Metformin Hydrochloride
Pronunciation: (jar-DEE-uh-met / jar-DEE-ance DOO-oh / jar-DEE-ance PLUS).
- Generic name
- Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride
- Brand names
- Jardiance Duo, Jardiamet, Jardiance Plus, Glycomet Duo, Formet Duo, Obimet Plus
- Drug class
- Antidiabetic agent (SGLT2 inhibitor and Biguanide combination)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States
Australia: · Full directory
What Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride works
Empagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor that reduces renal glucose reabsorption, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. The combination provides complementary mechanisms to lower blood glucose in type 2 diabetes.
What Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride is used for
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (2)
Reduction of risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease
Reduction of risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease (2)
Reduction of the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure (NYHA class II-IV) with reduced ejection fraction
Reduction of the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure (NYHA class II-IV) with reduced ejection fraction (2)
Before taking Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²), acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), severe hepatic impairment, or hypersensitivity to any component. (Contraindication) (2)
- Temporarily discontinue before iodinated contrast imaging or major surgery. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride
- General Instructions: Take exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Two different formulations exist: an immediate-release tablet taken twice daily, and an extended-release (XR) tablet taken once daily. Do not switch between them without your prescriber's guidance.. Adult Dosing: Immediate-release: typical starting dose empagliflozin 5 mg/metformin 500 mg twice daily with meals, adjusted based on blood sugar response and kidney function, maximum empagliflozin 25 mg/metformin 2000 mg per day. Extended-release (XR): typically empagliflozin 10 mg/metformin 1000 mg once daily with the morning meal, adjusted up to a maximum of 25 mg empagliflozin/1000 mg metformin XR daily.. Pediatric Dosing: Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.. Administration: Immediate-release tablets: swallow whole with water, taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Extended-release tablets: swallow whole; do not split, crush, dissolve, or chew.. When To Stop: If you develop symptoms that could indicate lactic acidosis (such as unusual tiredness, muscle pain, trouble breathing, or stomach pain), a severe allergic reaction, or diabetic ketoacidosis, seek medical advice promptly; let the clinician you see advise on whether to continue or stop treatment.. Storage: Store at controlled room temperature, 20-25C (68-77F), with brief excursions to 15-30C (59-86F) permitted, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose may cause lactic acidosis (a medical emergency), severe hypoglycemia, or dehydration. Symptoms include rapid breathing, confusion, muscle pain, and severe weakness. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Hypoglycemia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Urinary tract infections
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Genital yeast infections
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Diarrhea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Ketoacidosis
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Lactic acidosis
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dehydration
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
FDA BOXED WARNING (metformin component) — serious
Symptoms: FDA BOXED WARNING (metformin component): postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis have been fatal, presenting with malaise, muscle pain, breathing difficulty, drowsiness, and stomach pain, with laboratory findings of high blood lactate and blood acidity. Risk factors include kidney impairment, certain other medicines, age 65 or older, imaging procedures using iodinated contrast dye, surgery, low-oxygen states, excess alcohol intake, and liver impairment. If lactic acidosis is suspected, this medicine is stopped immediately and the person is treated in a hospital, with urgent dialysis often needed. This is the highest level of warning the FDA assigns to a medicine.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Risk of lactic acidosis, especially in people with kidney or liver impairment — serious
Symptoms: Risk of lactic acidosis, especially in people with kidney or liver impairment. May cause dehydration and low blood pressure. Increased risk of genital and urinary tract infections. Not for use in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Monitor kidney function regularly during treatment.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²), acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (including diabetic ketoacidosis), severe hepatic impairment, or hypersensitivity to any component. Use caution in elderly, those with volume depletion, or at risk for genital/urinary tract infections. Temporarily discontinue before iodinated contrast imaging or major surgery. Per the FDA label, severe hepatic impairment is treated as a major lactic-acidosis risk factor requiring caution/avoidance rather than a separately stated formal FDA contraindication, but the clinical caution is the same.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Starting this medicine is not recommended if eGFR is below 45 mL/min/1 — serious
Symptoms: Starting this medicine is not recommended if eGFR is below 45 mL/min/1.73m2, and it is contraindicated below eGFR 30 mL/min/1.73m2. Kidney function (eGFR) is checked at least once a year for everyone on this medicine, and more often for those at higher risk (e.g., older adults or those with borderline kidney function).
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Jardiamet/Jardiance Duo/Jardiance Plus may interact with diuretics, insulin, sulfonylureas (increasing risk of hypoglycemia), certain blood pressure medications, and drugs that affect kidney function. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Not recommended during the second and third trimesters, due to animal data showing adverse kidney effects from the empagliflozin component on the developing fetus. Poorly controlled diabetes itself carries risks to both mother and baby, so the treating clinician weighs these together in deciding on treatment during pregnancy. (2)
Breastfeeding
Not recommended while breastfeeding, due to the potential for the empagliflozin component to affect kidney development in a nursing infant. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable.. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable.. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children. (2)
Renal_impairment
Renal impairment: starting this medicine is not recommended below eGFR 45 mL/min/1.73m2, and it is contraindicated below eGFR 30 mL/min/1.73m2 due to lactic-acidosis and empagliflozin-effectiveness concerns. Hepatic impairment: not a formal contraindication on the FDA label, but a major lactic-acidosis risk factor, so it is used with caution and close monitoring, or avoided, as the treating clinician judges appropriate. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Renal impairment: starting this medicine is not recommended below eGFR 45 mL/min/1.73m2, and it is contraindicated below eGFR 30 mL/min/1.73m2 due to lactic-acidosis and empagliflozin-effectiveness concerns. Hepatic impairment: not a formal contraindication on the FDA label, but a major lactic-acidosis risk factor, so it is used with caution and close monitoring, or avoided, as the treating clinician judges appropriate. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store at controlled room temperature, 20-25C (68-77F), with brief excursions to 15-30C (59-86F) permitted for transport. Keep out of reach of children, and store in a cool, dry place away from bathrooms or damp areas.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Dose summary: Two formulations exist and are not interchangeable without prescriber guidance. Immediate-release (twice daily with meals): starting empagliflozin 5 mg/metformin 500 mg, titrated up to a maximum of empagliflozin 25 mg/metformin 2000 mg per day, available in 5/500, 5/1000, 12.5/500, and 12.5/1000 mg strengths. Extended-release/XR (once daily with the morning meal): starting empagliflozin 10 mg/metformin 1000 mg, available in 5/1000, 10/1000, 12.5/1000, and 25/1000 mg strengths, up to a maximum of 25 mg empagliflozin/1000 mg metformin XR daily.
Renal context: Initiation not recommended below eGFR 45 mL/min/1.73m2; contraindicated below eGFR 30 mL/min/1.73m2. Check eGFR at least annually (more often in higher-risk patients). Severe hepatic impairment: not a formal contraindication but a major lactic-acidosis risk factor requiring caution. (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is Jardiamet / Jardiance Duo / Jardiance Plus used for?
These medicines are used to help control blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes, especially when single-agent therapy is not enough. They may also help reduce the risk of heart and kidney complications.
How does this medication work?
It combines empagliflozin, which helps the kidneys remove excess sugar, and metformin, which reduces sugar production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity.
Can I take this medicine if I have kidney problems?
It is not recommended for people with severe kidney impairment. Your doctor will check your kidney function before and during treatment.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
Mild side effects may improve over time. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, or signs of lactic acidosis, seek medical help immediately.
Can I use this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly needed and prescribed by your doctor. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
What foods or drinks should I avoid?
Avoid excessive alcohol, which increases the risk of lactic acidosis. Stay hydrated and follow your healthcare provider's dietary advice.
How often should my blood sugar and kidney function be monitored?
Your doctor will recommend regular blood sugar checks and periodic kidney function tests, especially at the start of therapy and during dose adjustments.
What happens if I take too much Jardiamet / Jardiance Duo / Jardiance Plus?
Taking too much Jardiamet can lead to severe hypoglycemia, lactic acidosis (due to metformin), or dehydration. Symptoms may include extreme weakness, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, or rapid breathing. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to self-treat severe symptoms.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Jardiamet / Jardiance Duo / Jardiance Plus?
It is generally advised to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Jardiamet. Alcohol can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious side effect associated with metformin, especially in individuals with impaired kidney function. Additionally, alcohol can affect blood sugar levels, potentially leading to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, interfering with the medication's effectiveness.
Is Jardiamet / Jardiance Duo / Jardiance Plus safe during pregnancy?
Jardiamet's safety during pregnancy has not been definitively established. It is categorized as a medication where risks cannot be ruled out. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against the risks and determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific situation.
What is the mechanism of action of Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride?
Empagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor that reduces renal glucose reabsorption, leading to increased urinary glucose excretion. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. The combination provides complementary mechanisms to lower blood glucose in type 2 diabetes.
What is the generic name of Empagliflozin And Metformin Hydrochloride?
The generic name is Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride. It is sold under brand names including Jardiance Duo, Jardiamet, Jardiance Plus, Glycomet Duo, Formet Duo, Obimet Plus.
What class of drug is Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride?
Empagliflozin And Metformin Hydrochloride is classed as: Antidiabetic agent (SGLT2 inhibitor and Biguanide combination).
References
- Jardiamet / Jardiance Duo / Jardiance Plus clinician-authored medicine recordMedGuideGlobal · Global (clinician-authored medicine record) · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- SYNJARDY (empagliflozin and metformin hydrochloride) and SYNJARDY XR (empagliflozin and metformin hydrochloride) prescribing informationU.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- Empagliflozin — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Synjardy — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA NDA206111)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Empagliflozin and Metformin — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 1664314)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Synjardy
- Trijardy XR