FDA Approves Two-In-One Diabetes Treatment For Type 2

By Brenda Neugent

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved a two-in-one diabetes treatment that combines two type 2 treatments.

Glyxambi combines empagliflozin, a sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor that blocks the absorption of excess glucose by the kidneys so it is released through urine, and linagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor that increases the production of insulin by the beta cells of the pancreas while reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver.

Empagliflozin, known as Jardinance, was approved in August. Linagliptin, known as Tradjenta, was developed through a joint venture between Eli Lilly and Boehringer Ingelheim.

“Half of people with type 2 diabetes do not achieve recommended blood sugar control, making new treatment options more important than ever,” said Mike Mason, vice president of Eli Lilly’s U.S. diabetes division, in a press release.

Glyxambi, when combined with metformin (which suppressed the production of glucose by the liver), has been shown to improve blood sugar control for most patients.

Side effects include inflammation of the pancreas, dehydration and yeast infections. It is not recommended for those with severe kidney problems or those who are on dialysis.

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