Generic Kombiglyze XR

At this time, generic Kombiglyze XR is unavailable and it will remain so until 2021, when the first patent protecting the drug expires. In most cases, taking Kombiglyze XR is preferable to taking the two active ingredients separately; however, in some cases, this may be the more cost-effective solution, especially if an insurance company will not cover Kombiglyze XR.

Is a Generic Version of Kombiglyze XR Available?

Kombiglyze™ XR (saxagliptin/metformin ER) is a prescription medication approved for treating type 2 diabetes. It contains saxagliptin, which belongs to a relatively new class of diabetes medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It also contains metformin, an older diabetes medication.
 
Kombiglyze XR is manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) and is marketed by BMS and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. At this time, generic Kombiglyze XR is not available.
 

When Will Generic Kombiglyze XR Be Available?

The first patent for Kombiglyze XR currently expires in February 2021. This is the earliest predictable date that a generic version could become available.
 
However, other circumstances could come up to extend or shorten the exclusivity period. This could include such things as lawsuits or other patents for specific Kombiglyze XR uses. Once the patent expires, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Kombiglyze XR drug.
 

What About Taking Saxagliptin and Metformin Separately?

In general, most people will find that taking Kombiglyze XR instead of taking the individual components (saxagliptin and
 metformin ER) separately will be most cost effective. However, rare situations may arise in which it might be less expensive to take the two components separately. This is more likely to occur if an insurance company will cover the two components separately but will not cover Kombiglyze XR.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
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