Free delivery on all NHS prescriptions — order now
- Home
- Chronic Conditions
- Diabetes
- Komboglyze
Komboglyze
Images for illustrative purposes only
Komboglyze is a prescription medication used to improve glycaemic control in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus by combining the active ingredients saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride. It is typically prescribed for patients whose blood sugar levels remain inadequately controlled despite using the maximum tolerated dose of metformin alone or for those already taking both medicines as separate tablets.
- Combined therapy with two active ingredients for glycaemic control
- Convenient twice-daily oral tablet for Type 2 diabetes management
- Helps lower HbA1c levels when metformin alone is insufficient
- Discreet UK delivery following a registered clinician's review
More information
"Komboglyze is a dual-action oral treatment specifically indicated for adults living with Type 2 diabetes to help manage blood glucose levels effectively. This medication is usually prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise when single-agent therapy is no longer sufficient to reach target HbA1c levels. By combining a DPP-4 inhibitor with a biguanide, it addresses multiple factors of glucose regulation in one convenient tablet." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy Komboglyze through our secure online platform at Mail my Meds after completing a digital consultation to ensure the treatment is clinically appropriate for you. Our process involves a review by a UK registered prescriber, and if approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to protect your privacy.
The cost of Komboglyze varies depending on the specific strength required for your condition and the duration of the prescription issued by your clinician. While prices are competitive, the total amount includes the professional clinical review, the medication itself, and the dispensing service provided by our regulated UK pharmacy.
We provide a range of reliable delivery services across the UK to ensure you receive your diabetes medication promptly and safely. Once your online consultation is approved and the prescription is processed, you can choose from various tracked shipping methods to suit your schedule, including expedited options for those requiring their refill urgently.
Komboglyze is a combination treatment used to manage blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults aged 18 and over who have Type 2 diabetes. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, where the body produces no insulin, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or the insulin it does produce does not work effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels that can cause long-term health complications.
The active ingredients in this medication are saxagliptin and metformin hydrochloride, which belong to two different classes of antidiabetic medicines. Saxagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, while metformin is a biguanide. Together, they provide a multi-faceted approach to lowering blood glucose by increasing insulin production and reducing sugar production in the liver.
Komboglyze works by using two distinct mechanisms to help your body regulate glucose levels more efficiently throughout the day. Saxagliptin increases the levels of incretin hormones, which signal the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood sugar is high, while metformin helps the body respond better to its own insulin and reduces the amount of sugar absorbed from food and produced by the liver.
You should take Komboglyze exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice daily with meals to minimise the risk of stomach upset associated with the metformin component. The tablets must be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should never be crushed, chewed, or broken, as this can affect how the medicine is absorbed into your system.
The dosage of Komboglyze is individualised based on your current treatment regimen, kidney function, and how well your blood sugar is currently being managed. It is available in different strengths, most commonly combining 2.5mg of saxagliptin with either 850mg or 1,000mg of metformin, with the maximum daily dose usually being two tablets per day.
Like all medicines, this treatment can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them, and many symptoms improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Common side effects often relate to the digestive system or mild infections of the upper respiratory tract.
- Feeling sick (nausea) or vomiting
- Stomach ache or indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Headache
- Infection of the structures that carry urine (UTI)
- Inflammation of the nose or throat (nasopharyngitis)
Komboglyze is not suitable for everyone, particularly individuals with severely reduced kidney function or those at risk of metabolic acidosis. You must inform your prescriber if you have a history of pancreatitis, heart failure, or if you consume large amounts of alcohol, as these factors can increase the risk of rare but serious complications like lactic acidosis.
Komboglyze offers the benefit of two medications in a single tablet, which may improve adherence compared to taking saxagliptin (Onglyza) and metformin as separate pills. While SGLT2 inhibitors (like dapagliflozin) are now often used first-line alongside metformin in the UK, DPP-4 inhibitor combinations like Komboglyze remain a vital alternative for patients who cannot tolerate other drug classes or require specific glucose-lowering pathways.
| Feature | Komboglyze | Metformin Only |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Two (Saxagliptin + Metformin) | One (Metformin) |
| Mechanism | Increases insulin & reduces glucose production | Reduces glucose production |
| Weight Effect | Generally weight neutral | Weight neutral or slight loss |
You can access the full technical details, including a comprehensive list of all ingredients and potential interactions, in the manufacturer's Patient Information Leaflet. We recommend reading this document thoroughly before starting your treatmen. A digital version can be found on the electronic Medicines Compendium (emc).
Can I drink alcohol while taking Komboglyze?
You should avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking this medication as it significantly increases the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but life-threatening condition. Alcohol can also interfere with your blood sugar levels, making your diabetes harder to manage.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet, as this can lead to an increased risk of side effects or low blood sugar.
Does Komboglyze cause weight gain?
Komboglyze is generally considered weight-neutral, meaning most patients do not experience significant weight gain or loss as a direct result of the medication. This makes it a preferred option for many compared to older diabetes treatments like sulfonylureas.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional for personalised care. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment plan.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it remains up to date, accurate, and aligned with the latest clinical guidelines in the UK. We prioritise providing reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your health and medications.
Content last updated:

