Xultophy Prefilled Pen (Insulin Degludec and Liraglutide)

Xultophy is a prescription medication that is administered once daily as an injectable combination of long acting insulin degludec and liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. Designed for adults with type 2 diabetes, it facilitates improved glycemic control by managing fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels.

The combination also supports weight management and reduces the risk of hypoglycemia compared to separate therapies. Xultophy’s prefilled pen simplifies administration enhancing adherence and optimizing patient outcomes in chronic disease state management.

Quick Fact Table: Xultophy Prefilled Pen

What is the Xultophy Prefilled Pen?

Xultophy is a fixed-ratio co-formulation that integrates insulin degludec and liraglutide into one prefilled pen for type 2 diabetes management. It combines the glucose-lowering benefits of basal insulin with the glucose-dependent insulin secretion and appetite regulation properties of liraglutide. This combination facilitates effective glycemic control while potentially reducing weight gain and minimizing hypoglycemia risk compared to separate insulin and GLP-1 therapies.

Compared to other diabetes medications, Xultophy offers unique benefits by combining two proven agents – insulin degludec and liraglutide – in a single device, providing enhanced convenience and improved outcomes for many patients.

Components and Mechanism of Action

Insulin degludec and liraglutide are the active ingredients in this medication. Insulin degludec offers a prolonged and steady basal insulin supply through slow absorption and binding to albumin which stabilizes blood sugar levels over 24 hours. Liraglutide acts by augmenting insulin secretion in response to meals, suppressing glucagon and slowing gastric emptying which helps control postprandial glucose excursions and promotes satiety.

Together, these active ingredients work to lower blood sugar levels effectively in people with diabetes. The insulin dose is adjusted based on individual response and regular blood sugar monitoring to achieve optimal glycemic control.

Usage Benefits

Using Xultophy prefilled pen can improve glycemic control with fewer injections, reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and aid weight management. The combination simplifies treatment regimens, leads to better adherence and enhances overall patient outcomes.

How to Use the Xultophy Prefilled Pen

The Xultophy pen is designed for once-daily subcutaneous injection in the upper arm, thigh or abdomen, preferably at the same time each day. It is important to administer the injection at regular intervals, ideally at the same time every day, to ensure consistent effectiveness and safety. Patients should rotate injection sites within the same area to reduce skin irritation.

After each use, do not store the pen with the needle attached to prevent contamination and leakage.

Preparing and Priming the Pen

Attach a new needle before each injection. Prime the pen by dialing two units and pressing the injection button until a drop of medication appears at the needle tip. This ensures the proper flow of medication. Do not use the pen if the medication appears cloudy, discolored or contains particles.

Dose Selection and Injection

Select the prescribed dose by turning the dial. For injection, clean the site with an alcohol swab, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle and press the injection button. Hold for at least six seconds to deliver the full dose before removing the needle.

Storage and Disposal Guidelines

Store unused Xultophy pens in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C, protecting from light and excessive heat. Always check the expiration date before using a new pen, and discard any pen that is past its expiration date. After first use, pens may be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for 21 days. Dispose of used needles in a designated sharps container.

Xultophy Dosage Guide

Dosing is individualized based on prior therapy and glycemic response with close monitoring during initiation and titration. Dose adjustments may be necessary if the patient is taking other medications that affect blood sugar. The maximum daily dose is 50 units of insulin degludec with 1.8 mg of liraglutide.

Starting Doses

Insulin-naive patients typically start at 10 units daily. Patients transitioning from other insulins usually initiate at 16 units.

Dose Titration and Adjustment

Doses may be increased by 2 to 4 units once weekly based on fasting blood glucose levels, aiming for individualized glycemic targets while monitoring for hypoglycemia. Inform your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking as these may affect dose titration.

Maximum Dose Limits

The maximum approved daily dose is 50 units insulin degludec with 1.8 mg liraglutide. Exceeding this is not recommended.

Xultophy vs Lantus: Which is Better for You?

While both Xultophy and Lantus provide basal insulin coverage, Xultophy offers the added benefit of liraglutide’s GLP-1 action, resulting in better postprandial glucose control, potential weight loss and a reduced risk of hypoglycemia. Lantus may suit patients requiring simple basal insulin. Choice depends on individual medical history, treatment goals and comorbidities.

Side Effects and Safety Information

Possible side effects of Xultophy 100/3.6 include a range of mild to serious reactions that patients should be aware of.

Common Side Effects

Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea, injection site reactions and hypoglycemia. Severe hypoglycemia is a life-threatening condition that may cause confusion, sweating, shakiness, fainting, seizures or loss of consciousness. Immediate action is required if these symptoms occur.

There is an increased risk of heart disease, heart failure, and irregular heartbeat, especially in patients with pre-existing heart conditions. Monitoring for symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, or palpitations is important.

Warnings

Xultophy carries a boxed warning for thyroid tumors including medullary thyroid carcinoma and is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family member history of these conditions or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2. Patients should be alert for symptoms of thyroid cancer such as neck swelling, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.

Patients with a history of gallbladder disease should consult their healthcare professional before starting Xultophy. Patients should report any severe allergic reactions, pancreatitis symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, trouble breathing or signs of an allergic reaction to a doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions

Drug interactions are possible with Xultophy 100/3.6 including with beta blockers and other diabetes medications which may mask symptoms of hypoglycemia or increase the risk of adverse effects. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medications.

Xultophy Patient Reviews and Feedback

Patients often highlight the convenience of a single pen, improvements in glycemic control and effective weight management. Initial mild nausea typically subsides and many report satisfaction with adherence and lifestyle integration.

Xultophy availability requires a valid prescription. Patients can buy Xultophy prefilled pen online through licensed pharmacies with secure, verified prescription fulfillment and express shipping options.

Best Practices for Using Xultophy Pen

Adherence to prescribed dosing schedules and injection techniques promotes optimal results. Rotating injection sites within recommended areas helps prevent skin complications. Regular blood glucose monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers ensure safe therapy adjustments. Patients should consult a healthcare professional regularly for ongoing management and safe use of Xultophy.

References and Editorial Review

The information presented here is derived from clinical trials and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Every article is authored and vetted by certified healthcare experts, with regular updates to reflect the latest evidence and standards for accuracy and credibility.

Legal & Medical Disclaimer

The information provided is intended solely for informational use and does not replace professional medical advice from a licensed healthcare professional. A prescription is required to purchase Xultophy. Please consult your physician or pharmacist regarding any questions about your health or treatment.

Citations

• Drug Safety Information
• Health Canada Product Monograph