What is Xultophy?

is a brand-name prescription basal insulin (insulin degludec) and a GLP-1 receptor agonist (liraglutide).

It comes in a liquid solution prefilled pen which holds 3 ml of solution that contains:

• 100 units of insulin degludec. This is a long-acting insulin that is similar to the insulin naturally produced by the pancreas in our body.
• 3.6 mg of liraglutide, also known as a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist works to lower blood glucose levels.

Xultrophy is approved to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes who aren’t able to manage their blood sugar levels using other diabetes drugs. Diet and exercise should are typically recommended in combination as part of insulin treatment.

Testing hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is often used to measure a person’s response to insulin treatment. This measurement provides information on the average blood glucose levels over a period of 3 months.

According to the American Diabetes Association, the recommended HbA1c goal should be less than 7% for most adults.

• 1.67% to 1.94% with Xultophy 100/3.6, compared to 1.05% to 1.16% with long-acting insulins
• 1.31% with Xultophy 100/3.6, compared to 0.36% with liraglutide
• 1.81% with Xultophy 100/3.6, compared to 1.35% with insulin degludec and 1.21% with liraglutide
• 1.42% with Xultophy 100/3.6, compared to 0.62% with placebo
• 1.97% with Xultophy 100/3.6, compared to 1.59% with insulin glargine

How is Xultophy 100/3.6 used?

Xultophy 100/3.6 is administered by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection once per day. It is injected in areas such as the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.

If you are not sure how to administer the prefilled injection pen, consult your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

It must not be injected into a vein or used with an infusion pump.

Your doctor may ask you to monitor your blood sugar levels and adjust your insulin dose until your fasting glucose levels are appropriate for you. Factors such as your blood glucose values and lifestyle will determine the recommended dosage.

Do not use this medication if it appears cloudy or discolored or looks clumpy. It should not be mixed with other insulins or solutions. Shaking this medication before use is unnecessary.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose of Xultophy 100/3.6 depends on whether an individual has previously used basal (long-acting) insulin or a GLP-1 inhibitor.

The maximum recommended dose of Xultophy 100/3.6 is 50 units of insulin degludec/1.8 mg of liraglutide injected once daily.

Several factors can affect the dosage such as an individual’s body weight, existing medical conditions, and other medications currently being taken. Follow your doctor’s dosage exactly as prescribed regardless of information received from external sources such as the internet. Do not adjust your treatment without consulting your doctor first.

If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual dosing routine. Speak to your doctor if you miss 3 consecutive doses and how to resume your dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure what to do if you miss a dose.

Storage

Prior to using your Xultophy 100/3.6 prefilled pen, store the medication in the refrigerator in its original carton.

Do not freeze the medication and discard it if it has been frozen.

Protect this medication from moisture and direct light.

Keep away from children and pets.

After first use, Xultophy 100/3.6 prefilled pens can be stored at room temperature for up to 21 days.

Discard medication if there is any remaining after 21 days and start a new one.

Do not dispose of medication in household trash or down wastewater (i.e. toilet or skink).

Speak to your pharmacist about how to properly dispose of medication if it has expired or is no longer needed.

Common Side Effects

Common Side Effects with Xultophy 100/3.6 can include:

• hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• infections such as a cold
• headache
• diarrhea
• nausea

Most side effects associated with Xultophy 100/3.6 go away after a few days or a couple of weeks. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist if side effects do not go away with time.