Empagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride is a prescription medicine (Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor). The sections below reproduce one FDA label for it, named under "Label". Products in other forms, strengths or from other makers have their own labels, which can differ.
- Type
- Prescription only (Rx)
- Brand names
- Synjardy XR
- Drug class
- Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor
- Taken
- Oral
- Label
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., revised August 11, 2026 · full label on DailyMed
- Generic
- Not yet (tentatively approved) · details
Boxed warning — the FDA's most serious warning for a medicine
WARNING: LACTIC ACIDOSIS 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 (2.1) , 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 SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR 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. 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 SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR and institute general supportive measures in a hospital setting. Prompt hemodialysis is recommended. ( 5.1 )
What it is used for
SYNJARDY SYNJARDY is a combination of empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor and metformin hydrochloride (HCl) immediate-release, a biguanide, indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus. SYNJARDY XR SYNJARDY XR is a combination of empagliflozin, a SGLT2 inhibitor and metformin HCl extended-release, a biguanide, indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus . Empagliflozin Empagliflozin, when used as a component of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, is indicated in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to reduce the risk of: Cardiovascular (CV) death in adults with established CV disease. ( 1 ) CV death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure. ( 1 ) Sustained decline in eGFR, end-stage kidney disease, CV death, and hospitalization in adults with chronic kidney disease at risk of progression. ( 1 ) Limitations of Use : Not recommended for use to improve glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. It may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis in these patients. ( 1 ) Because of the metformin HCl component, the use of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR is limited to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for all indications. ( 1 ) Empagliflozin, when used as a component of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, is not recommended for the treatment of chronic kidney disease in patients with polycystic kidney disease or patients requiring or with a recent history of intravenous immunosuppressive therapy or greater than 45 mg of prednisone or equivalent for kidney disease. Empagliflozin is not expected to be effective in these populations. ( 1 ) SYNJARDY SYNJARDY is a combination of empagliflozin and metformin hydrochloride (HCl) immediate-release indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus . SYNJARDY XR SYNJARDY XR is a combination of empagliflozin and metformin HCl extended-release indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus . Empagliflozin Empagliflozin, when used as a component of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, is indicated in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus to reduce the risk of:
- Cardiovascular (CV) death in adults with established CV disease.
- CV death and hospitalization for heart failure in adults with heart failure.
- Sustained decline in eGFR, end-stage kidney disease, CV death, and hospitalization in adults with chronic kidney disease at risk of progression. Limitations of Use
- SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR are not recommended for use to improve glycemic control in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. It may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis in these patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .
- Because of the metformin HCl component, the use of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR is limited to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for all indications.
- Empagliflozin, when used as a component of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, is not recommended for the treatment of chronic kidney disease in patients with polycystic kidney disease or patients requiring or with a recent history of intravenous immunosuppressive therapy or greater than 45 mg of prednisone or equivalent for kidney disease [see Clinical Studies (14.5) ] . Empagliflozin is not expected to be effective in these populations.
Forms and strengths
SYNJARDY Tablets: 5 mg empagliflozin/500 mg metformin HCl ( 3 ) 5 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl ( 3 ) 12.5 mg empagliflozin/500 mg metformin HCl ( 3 ) 12.5 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl ( 3 ) SYNJARDY XR Tablets: 5 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) 10 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) 12.5 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) 25 mg empagliflozin/1,000 mg metformin HCl extended-release ( 3 ) SYNJARDY Tablets: Empagliflozin Strength Metformin HCl Strength Color/Shape Tablet Markings 5 mg 500 mg orange yellow, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S5" debossed on one side; the other side is debossed with "500". 5 mg 1,000 mg brownish yellow, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S5" debossed on one side; the other side is debossed with "1000". 12.5 mg 500 mg pale brownish purple, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S12" debossed on one side; the other side is debossed with "500". 12.5 mg 1,000 mg dark brownish purple, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S12" debossed on one side; the other side is debossed with "1000". SYNJARDY XR Tablets: Empagliflozin Strength Metformin HCl Extended – Release Strength Color/Shape Tablet Markings 5 mg 1,000 mg olive green, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Printed on one side in black ink with the Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S5" on the top line and "1000 M" on the bottom line. 10 mg 1,000 mg orange, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Printed on one side in black ink with the Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S10" on the top line and "1000 M" on the bottom line. 12.5 mg 1,000 mg blue, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Printed on one side in black ink with the Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S12" on the top line and "1000 M" on the bottom line. 25 mg 1,000 mg light green, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet Printed on one side in black ink with the Boehringer Ingelheim company symbol and "S25" on the top line and "1000 M" on the bottom line.
Who should not take it (contraindications)
SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR are contraindicated in patients with: severe renal impairment (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ]. acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. hypersensitivity to empagliflozin, metformin HCl or any of the excipients in SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, reactions such as angioedema have occurred [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Severe renal impairment (eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) ( 4 ) Metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis ( 4 ) Hypersensitivity to empagliflozin, metformin HCl or any of the excipients in SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Other Ketoacidosis: Consider ketone monitoring in patients at risk of ketoacidosis, as indicated. Assess for ketoacidosis regardless of presenting blood glucose levels and discontinue SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR if ketoacidosis is suspected. Monitor patients for resolution of ketoacidosis before restarting. ( 5.2 ) Volume Depletion: Before initiating SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, assess volume status and renal function in patients with impaired renal function, elderly patients, or patients on loop diuretics. Monitor for signs and symptoms during therapy. ( 5.3 ) Genitourinary Infections, including Urosepsis, Pyelonephritis, Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier's Gangrene), and Genital Mycotic Infections: Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of genitourinary infections and treat promptly, if indicated. Immediately evaluate patients presenting with pain or tenderness, erythema, or swelling in the genital or perineal area, along with fever or malaise, for necrotizing fasciitis and if suspected, discontinue SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, and promptly institute appropriate medical and/or surgical intervention. ( 5.4 ) Hypoglycemia: Adult patients taking an insulin secretagogue or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia. In pediatric patients 10 years of age and older, the risk of hypoglycemia was higher regardless of insulin use. Consider lowering the dosage of insulin secretagogue or insulin to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia when initiating SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. ( 5.5 ) Lower Limb Amputation: Monitor patients for infections or ulcers of lower limbs, and institute appropriate treatment. ( 5.6 ) Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., angioedema) have occurred with empagliflozin. If hypersensitivity reactions occur, discontinue SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, treat promptly, and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve. ( 5.7 ) 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. ( 5.8 )
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 SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. In SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR-treated patients with a diagnosis or strong suspicion of lactic acidosis, prompt hemodialysis is recommended to correct the acidosis and remove accumulated metformin (metformin 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 SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR and report these symptoms to their healthcare 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 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 based upon the patient's renal function include [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] : Before initiating SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, obtain an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR are contraindicated in patients with an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 [see Contraindications (4) ]. Obtain an eGFR at least annually in all patients taking SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. In patients at increased risk for the development of renal impairment (e.g., the elderly), renal function should be assessed more frequently. Drug Interactions: The concomitant use of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR 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. Age 65 or Greater: The risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis increases with the patient's age because elderly patients have a greater likelihood of having hepatic, renal, or cardiac impairment than younger patients. Assess renal function more frequently in elderly patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) ] . Radiological Studies with Contrast: Administration of intravascular iodinated contrast agents in metformin-treated patients has led to an acute decrease in renal function and the occurrence of lactic acidosis. Stop SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR at the time of, or prior to, an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ; in patients with a history of hepatic impairment, alcoholism, or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure, and restart SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR if renal function is stable. Surgery and Other Procedures: Withholding of food and fluids during surgical or other procedures may increase the risk for volume depletion, hypotension and renal impairment. SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR should be temporarily discontinued while patients have restricted food and fluid intake. Hypoxic States: Several of the postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis occurred in the setting of acute congestive heart failure (particularly when accompanied by hypoperfusion and hypoxemia). Cardiovascular collapse (shock), acute myocardial infarction, sepsis, and other conditions associated with hypoxemia have been associated with lactic acidosis and may also cause prerenal azotemia. When such events occur, discontinue SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. Excessive Alcohol Intake: Alcohol potentiates the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism and this may increase the risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis. Warn patients against excessive alcohol intake while receiving SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. Hepatic Impairment: Patients with hepatic impairment have developed cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis. This may be due to impaired lactate clearance resulting in higher lactate blood levels. Therefore, avoid use of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR in patients with clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic disease. Mitochondrial Diseases: Metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis in patients with mitochondrial diseases such as mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) syndrome and maternally inherited diabetes and deafness (MIDD). SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR are not recommended in patients with mitochondrial diseases such as MELAS syndrome and MIDD. […]
Side effects (adverse reactions)
The following important adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Lactic Acidosis [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and Other Ketoacidosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Volume Depletion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Genitourinary Infections, including Urosepsis, Pyelonephritis, Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier's Gangrene), and Genital Mycotic Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Hypoglycemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Lower Limb Amputation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Vitamin B 12 Deficiency [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Most common adverse reactions associated with empagliflozin (5% or greater incidence) were urinary tract infections and female genital mycotic infections. ( 6.1 ) Most common adverse reactions associated with metformin HCl (>5%) are diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, indigestion, asthenia, and headache. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-800-542-6257 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. The safety of concomitantly administered empagliflozin (daily dosage 10 mg or 25 mg) and metformin HCl (mean daily dosage of approximately 1,800 mg) has been evaluated in 3,456 adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated for 16 to 24 weeks, of which 926 patients received placebo, 1,271 patients received a daily dosage of empagliflozin 10 mg, and 1,259 patients received a daily dosage of empagliflozin 25 mg. Discontinuation of therapy due to adverse events across treatment groups was 3.0%, 2.8%, and 2.9% for placebo, empagliflozin 10 mg, and empagliflozin 25 mg, respectively. Adverse Reactions in a Clinical Trial with Empagliflozin (Add-On Combination Therapy with Metformin HCl and Sulfonylurea) for Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus In a 24-week placebo-controlled trial of empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg administered once daily added to metformin HCl and sulfonylurea, adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of empagliflozin-treated patients and more commonly than in placebo-treated patients are presented in Table 1 (see also Table 4 ). Table 1 Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥5% of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated with Empagliflozin added on to Metformin HCl plus Sulfonylurea and Greater than with Placebo in a 24-week Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial Adverse Reactions Placebo (%) n=225 Empagliflozin 10 mg (%) n=224 Empagliflozin 25 mg (%) n=217 Hypoglycemia 9.8 15.6
12.9 Urinary tract infection 6.7 9.4
6.9 Nasopharyngitis 4.9 8.0
6.0 Empagliflozin Clinical Trials in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus The data in Table 2 are derived from a pool of four 24-week placebo-controlled trials and 18-week data from a placebo-controlled trial with basal insulin in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Empagliflozin was used as monotherapy in one trial and as add-on therapy in four trials [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . These data reflect exposure of 1,976 adult patients to empagliflozin with a mean exposure duration of approximately 23 weeks. Patients received placebo (N=995), empagliflozin 10 mg (N=999), or empagliflozin 25 mg (N=977) once daily. The mean age of the population was 56 years and 3% were older than 75 years of age. More than half (55%) of the population was male; 46% were White, 50% were Asian, and 3% were Black or African American. At baseline, 57% of the population had diabetes mellitus more than 5 years and had a mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 8%. Established microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus at baseline included diabetic nephropathy (7%), retinopathy (8%), or neuropathy (16%). Baseline renal function was normal or mildly impaired in 91% of patients and moderately impaired in 9% of patients (mean eGFR 86.8 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ). Table 2 shows adverse reactions (excluding hypoglycemia) that were not present at baseline, occurred more commonly in empagliflozin-treated patients than placebo-treated patients, and occurred in greater than or equal to 2% of empagliflozin-treated patients. Table 2 Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥2% of Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Treated with Empagliflozin and Greater than Placebo in Pooled Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials of Empagliflozin Monotherapy or Combination Therapy Adverse Reactions Placebo (%) N=995 Empagliflozin 10 mg (%) N=999 Empagliflozin 25 mg (%) N=977 a Predefined adverse event grouping, including, but not limited to, urinary tract infection, asymptomatic bacteriuria, cystitis b Female genital mycotic infections include the following adverse reactions: vulvovaginal mycotic infection, vaginal infection, vulvitis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, genital infection, genital candidiasis, genital infection fungal, genitourinary tract infection, vulvovaginitis, cervicitis, urogenital infection fungal, vaginitis bacterial. Percentages calculated with the number of female subjects in each group as denominator: placebo (N=481), empagliflozin 10 mg (N=443), empagliflozin 25 mg (N=420). c Predefined adverse event grouping, including, but not limited to, polyuria, pollakiuria, and nocturia d Male genital mycotic infections include the following adverse reactions: balanoposthitis, balanitis, genital infections fungal, genitourinary tract infection, balanitis candida, scrotal abscess, penile infection. Percentages calculated with the number of male subjects in each group as denominator: placebo (N=514), empagliflozin 10 mg (N=556), empagliflozin 25 mg (N=557). Urinary tract infection a 7.6 9.3
7.6 Female genital mycotic infections b 1.5 5.4
6.4 Upper respiratory tract infection 3.8 3.1
4.0 Increased urination c 1.0 3.4
3.2 Dyslipidemia 3.4 3.9
2.9 Arthralgia 2.2 2.4
2.3 Male genital mycotic infections d 0.4 3.1
1.6 Nausea 1.4 2.3
1.1 Thirst (including polydipsia) was reported in 0%, 1.7%, and 1.5% for placebo, empagliflozin 10 mg, and empagliflozin 25 mg, respectively. Volume Depletion Empagliflozin causes an osmotic diuresis, which may lead to intravascular volume contraction and adverse reactions related to volume depletion. In the pool of five placebo-controlled clinical trials in adults, adverse reactions related to volume depletion (e.g., blood pressure (ambulatory) decreased, blood pressure systolic decreased, dehydration, hypotension, hypovolemia, orthostatic hypotension, and syncope) were reported by 0.3%, 0.5%, and 0.3% of patients treated with placebo, empagliflozin 10 mg, and empagliflozin 25 mg, respectively. Empagliflozin may increase the risk of hypotension in patients at risk for volume contraction [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5 , 8.6) ]. Increased Urination In the pool of five placebo-controlled clinical trials in adults, adverse reactions of increased urination (e.g., polyuria, pollakiuria, and nocturia) occurred more frequently on empagliflozin than on placebo (see Table 2 ). Specifically, nocturia was reported by 0.4%, 0.3%, and 0.8% of patients treated with placebo, empagliflozin 10 mg, and empagliflozin 25 mg, respectively. Hypoglycemia in Clinical Trials with Empagliflozin for Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus The incidence of hypoglycemia in adults by trial is shown in Table 3. The incidence of hypoglycemia increased when empagliflozin was administered with insulin or sulfonylurea. […]
Drug interactions
See Table 4 for clinically relevant interactions with SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. Table 4 Clinically Relevant Interactions with SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors Clinical Impact 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 SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Intervention Consider more frequent monitoring of these patients. 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 [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) ] . Intervention Consider the benefits and risks of concomitant use. Alcohol Clinical Impact Alcohol is known to potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. Intervention Warn patients against excessive alcohol intake while receiving SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. Diuretics Clinical Impact Coadministration of empagliflozin with diuretics resulted in increased urine volume and frequency of voids, which might enhance the potential for volume depletion. Intervention Before initiating SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, assess volume status and renal function. In patients with volume depletion, correct this condition before initiating SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR. Monitor for signs and symptoms of volume depletion, and renal function after initiating therapy. Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues Clinical Impact The risk of hypoglycemia is increased when SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR is used in combination with insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin. Intervention Coadministration of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may require lower dosages of the insulin secretagogue or insulin to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Drugs Affecting Glycemic Control Clinical Impact Certain drugs tend to produce hyperglycemia and may lead to loss of glycemic control. These drugs include the thiazides and other diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, estrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blocking drugs, and isoniazid. Intervention When such drugs are administered to a patient receiving SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, the patient should be closely observed to maintain adequate glycemic control. When such drugs are withdrawn from a patient receiving SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR, the patient should be observed closely for hypoglycemia. Lithium Clinical Impact Concomitant use of an SGLT2 inhibitor with lithium may decrease serum lithium concentrations. Intervention Monitor serum lithium concentration more frequently during SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR initiation and dosage changes. Positive Urine Glucose Test Clinical Impact SGLT2 inhibitors increase urinary glucose excretion and will lead to positive urine glucose tests. Intervention Monitoring glycemic control with urine glucose tests is not recommended in patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors. Use alternative methods to monitor glycemic control. Interference with 1,5-anhydroglucitol (1,5-AG) Assay Clinical Impact Measurements of 1,5-AG are unreliable in assessing glycemic control in patients taking SGLT2 inhibitors. Intervention Monitoring glycemic control with 1,5-AG assay is not recommended. Use alternative methods to monitor glycemic control. Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Consider more frequent monitoring. ( 7 ) Drugs that Reduce Metformin Clearance: May increase risk of lactic acidosis. Consider benefits and risks of concomitant use. ( 7 ) See full prescribing information for additional drug interactions and information on interference of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR with laboratory tests. ( 7 )
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children and older adults
Pregnancy: Advise females of the potential risk to a fetus especially during the second and third trimesters. ( 8.1 ) Lactation: Not recommended when breastfeeding. ( 8.2 ) Females and Males of Reproductive Potential: Advise premenopausal females of the potential for an unintended pregnancy. ( 8.3 ) Geriatric Patients: Higher incidence of adverse reactions related to volume depletion and reduced renal function. ( 8.5 ) Renal Impairment: Higher incidence of adverse reactions related to reduced renal function. ( 8.6 ) Hepatic Impairment: Avoid use in patients with hepatic impairment. ( 8.7 )
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Based on animal data showing adverse renal effects from empagliflozin, SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR are not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The limited available data with SYNJARDY, SYNJARDY XR, or empagliflozin in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. Published studies with metformin HCl use during pregnancy have not reported a clear association with metformin HCl 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 ) . In animal studies, empagliflozin, a component of SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR, resulted in adverse renal changes in rats when administered during a period of renal development corresponding to the late second and third trimesters of human pregnancy. Doses approximately 13-times the maximum clinical dose caused renal pelvic and tubule dilatations that were reversible. No adverse developmental effects were observed when metformin HCl was administered to pregnant rats or rabbits (see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects is 6% to 10% in women with pre-gestational diabetes with a HbA1c >7 and has been reported to be as high as 20% to 25% in women with HbA1c >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, pre-eclampsia, spontaneous abortions, preterm delivery, and delivery complications. Poorly controlled diabetes increases the fetal risk for major birth defects, stillbirth, and macrosomia related morbidity. Data Human Data Published data from postmarketing studies have not reported a clear association with metformin HCl and major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes when metformin HCl was used during pregnancy. However, these studies cannot definitely establish the absence of any metformin-associated risk because of methodological limitations, including small sample size and inconsistent comparator groups. Animal Data Empagliflozin: Empagliflozin dosed directly to juvenile rats from postnatal day (PND) 21 until PND 90 at doses of 1, 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg/day caused increased kidney weights and renal tubular and pelvic dilatation at 100 mg/kg/day, which approximates 13-times the maximum clinical dose of 25 mg, based on AUC. These findings were not observed after a 13-week, drug-free recovery period. These outcomes occurred with drug exposure during periods of renal development in rats that correspond to the late second and third trimester of human renal development. In embryo-fetal development studies in rats and rabbits, empagliflozin was administered for intervals coinciding with the first trimester period of organogenesis in humans. Doses up to 300 mg/kg/day, which approximates 48-times (rats) and 128-times (rabbits) the maximum clinical dose of 25 mg (based on AUC), did not result in adverse developmental effects. In rats, at higher doses of empagliflozin causing maternal toxicity, malformations of limb bones increased in fetuses at 700 mg/kg/day or 154-times the 25 mg maximum clinical dose. Empagliflozin crosses the placenta and reaches fetal tissues in rats. In the rabbit, higher doses of empagliflozin resulted in maternal and fetal toxicity at 700 mg/kg/day, or 139-times the 25 mg maximum clinical dose. In pre- and postnatal development studies in pregnant rats, empagliflozin was administered from gestation day 6 through to lactation day 20 (weaning) at up to 100 mg/kg/day (approximately 16-times the 25 mg maximum clinical dose) without maternal toxicity. Reduced body weight was observed in the offspring at greater than or equal to 30 mg/kg/day (approximately 4-times the 25 mg maximum clinical dose). Metformin HCl: Metformin HCl did not cause adverse developmental effects when administered to pregnant Sprague Dawley rats and rabbits at doses up to 600 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis. This represents an exposure of approximately 2- and 6-times a clinical dose of 2,000 mg, based on body surface area (mg/m 2 ) for rats and rabbits, respectively. Empagliflozin and Metformin HCl: No adverse developmental effects were observed when empagliflozin and metformin HCl were coadministered to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis at exposures of approximately 35- and 14-times the clinical AUC exposure of empagliflozin associated with the 10 mg and 25 mg doses, respectively, and 4-times the clinical AUC exposure of metformin HCl associated with the 2,000 mg dose.
8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There is limited information regarding the presence of SYNJARDY, SYNJARDY XR, or its components (empagliflozin or metformin HCl) 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 ) . Empagliflozin is present in the milk of lactating rats (see Data ) . Since human kidney maturation occurs in utero and during the first 2 years of life when lactational exposure may occur, there may be risk to the developing human kidney. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, including the potential for empagliflozin to affect postnatal renal development, advise patients that use of SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR is not recommended while breastfeeding. Data Published clinical lactation studies report that metformin is present in human milk which resulted in infant doses approximately 0.11% to 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio ranging between 0.13 and 1. However, the studies were not designed to definitely establish the risk of use of metformin HCl during lactation because of small sample size and limited adverse event data collected in infants. Empagliflozin was present at a low level in rat fetal tissues after a single oral dose to the dams at gestation day 18. In rat milk, the mean milk to plasma ratio ranged from 0.634 to 5, and was greater than one from 2 to 24 hours post-dose. The mean maximal milk to plasma ratio of 5 occurred at 8 hours post-dose, suggesting accumulation of empagliflozin in the milk. Juvenile rats directly exposed to empagliflozin showed a risk to the developing kidney (renal pelvic and tubular dilatations) during maturation.
8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Discuss the potential for unintended pregnancy with premenopausal women as therapy with metformin HCl may result in ovulation in some anovulatory women.
8.4 Pediatric Use SYNJARDY The safety and effectiveness of SYNJARDY as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus have been established in pediatric patients aged 10 years and older. […]
How it works
SYNJARDY or SYNJARDY XR SYNJARDY and SYNJARDY XR contain: empagliflozin, a SGLT2 inhibitor, and metformin HCl, a biguanide. Empagliflozin Empagliflozin is an inhibitor of SGLT2, the predominant transporter responsible for reabsorption of glucose from the glomerular filtrate back into the circulation. By inhibiting SGLT2, empagliflozin reduces renal reabsorption of filtered glucose and lowers the renal threshold for glucose, and thereby increases urinary glucose excretion. Empagliflozin also reduces sodium reabsorption and increases the delivery of sodium to the distal tubule. This may influence several physiological functions including, but not restricted to, increasing tubuloglomerular feedback and reducing intraglomerular pressure, lowering both pre- and afterload of the heart and downregulating sympathetic activity. Metformin HCl Metformin HCl is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. It is not chemically or pharmacologically related to any other classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents. Metformin HCl decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike sulfonylureas, metformin HCl does not produce hypoglycemia in either patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or normal subjects (except in special circumstances) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] and does not cause hyperinsulinemia. With metformin HCl therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin response may decrease.
Is there a generic Empagliflozin, Metformin Hydrochloride?
Not yet. The FDA has tentatively approved generics from 5 companies: they meet the FDA standards but cannot be sold yet, usually because of patents or marketing exclusivity on the brand.
Cipla Ltd, Lupin Ltd, Macleods Pharms Ltd, Msn Labs Pvt Ltd, Prinston Pharma Inc
Brand-name versions
- Synjardy Boehringer Ingelheim, approved 2015
- Synjardy Xr Boehringer Ingelheim, approved 2016
Source: Drugs@FDA (via openFDA), checked October 29, 2026. Marketing status is what companies report to the FDA; whether a pharmacy stocks a product, and what your insurance covers, can differ.
Dosage:
we do not reproduce dosing instructions. The right dose depends on the person and the condition and is set by the prescriber or pharmacist. Dosage section of the full label.
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Source: FDA structured product labeling, retrieved through openFDA. Label text is shown as published by the FDA, without editing; long sections are shortened, marked […]. openFDA data are not validated for clinical use — always check the current label and ask a doctor or pharmacist about your own treatment. Set ID 8006ba29-ee3a-f852-a9bb-c8ec9b41cf66.