What is Dapa Met 5/1000mg?

Dapa Met 5/1000mg Tab 28s is a prescription combination anti-diabetic tablet containing Dapagliflozin 5mg and Metformin 1000mg (immediate-release). It is used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. The combination of an SGLT-2 inhibitor and a biguanide provides complementary and additive glycaemic control through two distinct mechanisms. Consult your doctor; prescription required.

How Does Dapa Met 5/1000mg Work?

Dapagliflozin (SGLT-2 inhibitor) blocks sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 in the proximal renal tubule, preventing glucose reabsorption and causing approximately 70–80g of excess glucose to be excreted in urine daily — independent of insulin. The DAPA-HF trial also demonstrated significant reduction in heart failure hospitalisation and cardiovascular death. The DAPA-CKD trial showed kidney protection in chronic kidney disease. Metformin (biguanide) activates AMPK, primarily reducing hepatic glucose production, and secondarily increases peripheral insulin sensitivity. Together these mechanisms provide superior HbA1c reduction compared to either agent alone.

Uses of Dapa Met 5/1000mg

Dapa Met 5/1000mg is indicated for: adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on metformin alone or requiring combination therapy; patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease or high CV risk (dapagliflozin's CV benefit); and patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease where renal protection is a priority. Not for type 1 diabetes.

Dosage & Administration

Take Dapa Met 5/1000mg with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects from metformin — the most common reason for metformin discontinuation. The usual dose is one tablet twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew. Maintain adequate hydration — especially important with dapagliflozin, which promotes osmotic diuresis. Monitor renal function before and during therapy. Prescription required.

Side Effects

Dapagliflozin-related: urinary tract infections (UTIs), genital mycotic infections (thrush — more common in women), increased urination (osmotic diuresis), hypotension (due to volume depletion), rare diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA — can occur even with normal-range blood glucose; more risk in insulin-depleted states), rare Fournier's gangrene (necrotising fasciitis of the perineum — seek emergency care for perineal pain, swelling, or fever). Metformin-related: nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort (take with food), rare but potentially fatal lactic acidosis (contraindicated in renal impairment GFR <30, hepatic disease, alcoholism).

Precautions

Metformin lactic acidosis warning: contraindicated when eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²; use with caution when eGFR 30–45; hold for 48 hours before and after iodinated contrast procedures. Dapagliflozin: hold during acute illness or surgery (sick-day rule) to prevent DKA. Assess genital hygiene to reduce mycotic infection risk. Do not use in type 1 diabetes. Monitor renal function, blood pressure, and signs of volume depletion. Prescription required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why must I take Dapa Met 5/1000mg with food?
A: The metformin component causes nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort when taken on an empty stomach. Taking with a meal significantly reduces these gastrointestinal side effects.

Q: What are the signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) with dapagliflozin?
A: DKA can occur even when blood glucose appears normal. Warning signs include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fruity breath. Stop the medicine and seek emergency care immediately.

Q: Does Dapa Met protect the heart and kidneys?
A: Yes — dapagliflozin has demonstrated cardiovascular and renal protective effects in the DAPA-HF and DAPA-CKD trials, making it a valuable choice for diabetic patients with heart failure or kidney disease.