What is Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg?

Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg is a prescription once-daily combination anti-diabetic tablet containing Dapagliflozin 5mg and Metformin Extended-Release (XR) 1000mg. The XR formulation of metformin delivers the drug gradually throughout the day, providing equivalent glycaemic control to the immediate-release form but with significantly reduced gastrointestinal side effects and simplified once-daily dosing. Consult your doctor; prescription required.

How Does Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg Work?

Dapagliflozin 5mg is an SGLT-2 inhibitor that blocks glucose reabsorption in the proximal renal tubule, causing approximately 70–80g of excess glucose to be excreted in urine daily — an insulin-independent mechanism that also produces mild osmotic diuresis and blood pressure lowering. Dapagliflozin also has cardiovascular and renal protective properties (DAPA-HF, DAPA-CKD trials). Metformin XR 1000mg suppresses hepatic glucose production via AMPK activation and improves peripheral insulin sensitivity, releasing the drug in a controlled manner to maintain steady plasma levels and minimise GI adverse effects.

Uses of Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg

Indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus not adequately controlled on metformin alone and requiring the addition of an SGLT-2 inhibitor, or as initial dual therapy where appropriate. Suitable for patients who experience GI intolerance with immediate-release metformin and prefer once-daily dosing. Not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Dosage & Administration

Take Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg with a meal — food improves metformin XR absorption and minimises any residual GI effects. Once daily dosing as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with water — do not crush, break, or chew, as this will destroy the extended-release matrix and release the full metformin dose at once. Maintain good hydration. Monitor renal function before and periodically during therapy. Prescription required.

Side Effects

Dapagliflozin-related: genital mycotic infections (thrush — more common in women), urinary tract infections (UTIs), increased urination and thirst (osmotic diuresis), low blood pressure (volume depletion), rare diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA — even with near-normal blood glucose; stop medicine and seek emergency care if nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or fruity breath develops), rare Fournier's gangrene. Metformin XR: significantly fewer GI effects than IR; may still cause mild initial nausea; rare but fatal lactic acidosis (contraindicated when eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²).

Precautions

Metformin contraindicated in renal impairment with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²; hold 48 hours before and after iodinated contrast procedures. Dapagliflozin sick-day rule: discontinue temporarily during acute illness, surgery, or prolonged fasting to prevent euglycaemic DKA. Monitor renal function, blood pressure, and hydration status. Avoid in type 1 diabetes. Prescription required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the advantage of the XR formulation in Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg?
A: The extended-release metformin releases the drug slowly and steadily, avoiding the peak plasma concentrations that cause gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, diarrhoea) with immediate-release metformin. This improves tolerability and allows once-daily dosing.

Q: What is the difference between Dapa Met XR 5/1000mg and Dapa Met XR 10/1000mg?
A: The dapagliflozin dose differs — 5mg versus 10mg. The 10mg dose has demonstrated cardiovascular and renal protective benefits in landmark trials. Your doctor will choose the appropriate dose based on your clinical profile.

Q: Can I split or chew the Dapa Met XR tablet?
A: No — the XR tablet must be swallowed whole. Splitting or chewing destroys the controlled-release mechanism, releasing all the metformin at once, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and undermine the XR benefit.