Xigduo XR: Uses, Forms and Safety Reference

Xigduo XR combines dapagliflozin with extended-release metformin. Its once-daily administration still requires attention to tablet count, both ingredient totals and the combination’s type 2 diabetes limitation.

The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.

Medicine detail Details
Active ingredient(s) dapagliflozin / metformin hydrochloride extended release
Medicine class SGLT2 inhibitor / biguanide combination
Forms and strengths Extended-release tablets: 2.5/1000, 5/500, 5/1000, 10/500 and 10/1000 mg

Approved uses in the United States

Xigduo XR is approved for glucose control in people aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes. Its prescribing information also describes specific heart and kidney benefits of dapagliflozin in certain adults with type 2 diabetes. All approved uses of this metformin-containing combination are limited to people with type 2 diabetes.

Source: [1]

Five tablet strengths

Xigduo XR tablets contain dapagliflozin/metformin in strengths of 2.5/1,000, 5/500, 5/1,000, 10/500 or 10/1,000 mg. They are taken once daily in the morning with food, using the prescribed number of tablets. Swallow XR tablets whole. Once daily does not necessarily mean one tablet.

Source: [1]

Metformin safety remains central

The label carries a boxed warning for lactic acidosis and kidney-based restrictions. Illness, alcohol, surgery and certain contrast procedures can affect risk. The clinician should give clear interruption and restart instructions where needed, taking both ingredients into account.

Source: [1]

Dapagliflozin adds separate precautions

Ketoacidosis, volume depletion and genital or urinary infections are important warnings. Ketoacidosis can occur without markedly elevated glucose. Report concerning symptoms promptly and ask about a plan for fasting or acute illness rather than applying instructions from metformin alone.

Source: [1]

Xigduo XR and Farxiga

Farxiga contains dapagliflozin alone and has some approved uses in adults without diabetes. Xigduo XR contains metformin as well, so its approved uses are limited to people with type 2 diabetes. Confirm whether it replaces any separate dapagliflozin or metformin tablets to avoid duplicate treatment.

Source: [1]

Questions and answers

Does Xigduo XR contain immediate-release metformin?

No. It contains extended-release metformin with dapagliflozin.

Is once-daily Xigduo XR necessarily one tablet?

No. The prescribed tablet count determines both daily ingredient totals.

Can Xigduo XR be used by everyone who can take Farxiga?

No. Xigduo XR contains metformin, and its approved uses are limited to people with type 2 diabetes. Some Farxiga uses include adults without diabetes.

Related reading

Sources

  1. Xigduo XR: official US prescribing information

Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.

Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD

About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.

Last reviewed: October 2026