Kazano (metformin hydrochloride/alogliptin benzoate)

Do’s

• Take Kazano exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually twice daily with meals.
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking Kazano, unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise.
• Take Kazano consistently, at the same time each day, to get the most benefit.
• Follow your diabetes management plan carefully, including diet, exercise, and other medications.
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly as directed by your healthcare provider. Share the results with your healthcare provider to help them adjust your treatment plan if needed.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and herbal products you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs, to avoid potential interactions.

Don'ts

• Do not break, crush, or cut the tablet. Swallow the tablet whole. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have trouble swallowing the tablet whole.
• Don't take more or less Kazano than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip or stop taking Kazano without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't break, crush, or cut the Kazano tablet before taking it.
• Don't neglect your diabetes management plan, including diet and exercise.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Abdominal distress
• Headache
• Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages)

Serious Side Effects:

• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Muscle pain
• Trouble breathing
• Stomach pain
• Nausea, and vomiting.
• Severe joint pain
• Increased blood pressure
• Back pain
• Urinary tract infection, and others.
• Serious allergic reactions: These may include rash, peeling or blistering skin, swelling, trouble breathing, and dizziness.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Kazano,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Kazano or any of its ingredients.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially breathing problems, kidney disease, liver problems, pancreatitis, gallstones, or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Kazano may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Avoid activities requiring alertness like driving until you are sure you can perform them safely.

Limit alcohol consumption while taking Kazano as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take before having surgery or any X-ray/scanning procedure using iodinated contrast. You may need to stop taking Kazano for a short time.

Stop taking Kazano and tell your healthcare provider right away if you have prolonged diarrhea or vomiting, as dehydration can increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Drink plenty of fluids unless your healthcare provider instructs you otherwise.

Stress can make it harder to control blood sugar. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience stress, as it may require changes in your treatment plan.

Older adults may be at greater risk for side effects of Kazano.

Kazano may cause menstrual cycle changes and increase the chance of pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider about birth control while taking this medication. During pregnancy, Kazano should only be used when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking Kazano.

Rarely, too much metformin in Kazano can build up in the body and cause lactic acidosis, a serious condition. This is more likely if you are an older adult, have certain medical conditions, or use other medications. Stop taking Kazano and get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of lactic acidosis.