What is Glyxambi?
Empagliflozin and linagliptin is the non-proprietary or generic name for the brand-name drug Glyxambi. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2015, Glyxambi is a prescription medication used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes when treatment with both medications is appropriate. It is important to note that Glyxambi is a fixed-dose combination therapy, meaning the two active ingredients are combined into a single tablet for convenience.
Glyxambi should not be used in people with type 1 diabetes or for treating diabetic ketoacidosis. It is also contraindicated for patients with severe kidney problems or those on dialysis.
The Generic Status of Empagliflozin (Jardiance)
Empagliflozin, one of the two active components in Glyxambi, is available as a single-ingredient drug under the brand name Jardiance. Jardiance is a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, which works by helping the kidneys remove excess sugar from the body through urine. In addition to managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, Jardiance is also approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization in certain adults with heart failure or chronic kidney disease.
As of late 2025, there is no generic version of Jardiance commercially available in the United States. While the FDA has approved generic versions, market entry is still pending due to patent exclusivity. Experts anticipate generic availability sometime in 2025 or later, which could significantly lower the cost for patients.
The Generic Status of Linagliptin (Tradjenta)
The other active ingredient, linagliptin, is sold as the brand-name medication Tradjenta. Tradjenta is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that increases incretin hormone levels in the body. These hormones help regulate blood sugar by promoting insulin release and reducing glucose production by the liver.
Similar to empagliflozin, linagliptin is not yet available as a generic in pharmacies, even though the FDA has approved generic versions. This is also due to patent protection. While the generic form, simply called linagliptin, is approved, it cannot be legally sold in the US until patent protections expire.
How Glyxambi's Components Work Together
The combination of empagliflozin and linagliptin provides a dual mechanism of action that addresses blood sugar control from two different angles. This dual approach can offer a more robust treatment effect for patients whose diabetes is not adequately controlled by a single medication. The synergistic effects include:
- Empagliflozin (SGLT2 inhibitor): Reduces glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, increasing urinary glucose excretion.
- Linagliptin (DPP-4 inhibitor): Boosts insulin production and decreases hepatic glucose production.
Combining these two different classes of medication can also improve medication adherence for patients who might otherwise need to take multiple pills.
Comparing Glyxambi and its Individual Components
To better understand the differences between the combination drug and its individual components, consider the following comparison table:
| Attribute | Glyxambi | Jardiance | Tradjenta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Name | empagliflozin/linagliptin | empagliflozin | linagliptin |
| Generic Availability | No generic available | Generic approved, but not yet available | Generic approved, but not yet available |
| Drug Class | Combination SGLT2 and DPP-4 inhibitor | SGLT2 inhibitor | DPP-4 inhibitor |
| Mechanism of Action | Increases urinary glucose excretion and boosts insulin production | Increases urinary glucose excretion | Boosts insulin production and reduces liver glucose production |
| Indications | Type 2 diabetes; reduce risk of CV death | Type 2 diabetes, HF, CKD; reduce risk of CV death | Type 2 diabetes |
Cost and Alternatives
Since there is no generic version of Glyxambi available, it can be an expensive brand-name medication. The cost can be a significant barrier for many patients, even with insurance. However, there are several ways to potentially reduce the financial burden:
- Manufacturer programs: Manufacturers often offer patient assistance programs or savings cards for their brand-name medications. Eligibility requirements may apply.
- Other generic options: Patients can explore generic alternatives within the same drug classes. For example, generic dapagliflozin (Farxiga) is an alternative SGLT2 inhibitor, and other DPP-4 inhibitors like Januvia (sitagliptin) and Onglyza (saxagliptin) are available, though some may still be brand-name only.
- Other drug classes: Other generic drugs for type 2 diabetes exist, such as metformin, which is a common first-line treatment. Your doctor can discuss alternative treatment plans based on your specific needs.
- Reputable online pharmacies: Some patients may find cost savings through reputable online pharmacies, including those in other countries like Canada. It is crucial to verify the safety standards of any online pharmacy before purchasing medications.
Conclusion: The Generic Outlook for Empagliflozin Linagliptin
In summary, the generic brand for empagliflozin linagliptin does not exist in the United States. The brand name is Glyxambi, and it is a combination drug for type 2 diabetes. While generic versions of the individual components, empagliflozin (Jardiance) and linagliptin (Tradjenta), have been approved, they are not yet available on the market due to patent protection. Patients concerned about the cost of Glyxambi should discuss with their healthcare provider whether alternative brand-name or existing generic diabetes medications are suitable for their treatment plan. The future availability of generic empagliflozin and linagliptin, expected sometime after 2025, will likely offer more affordable options for diabetes management.
For more detailed prescribing information, refer to the official FDA documentation for Glyxambi.
