Limitations of Use

TRIJARDY XR is not recommended in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. It may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis in these patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

TRIJARDY XR has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis. It is unknown whether patients with a history of pancreatitis are at an increased risk for the development of pancreatitis while using TRIJARDY XR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

2.1 Prior to Initiation of TRIJARDY XR

• Assess renal function before initiating TRIJARDY XR and as clinically indicated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.4)].
• In patients with volume depletion, correct this condition before initiating TRIJARDY XR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.5, 8.6)].

2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration

• Individualize the starting dose of TRIJARDY XR based on the patient's current regimen:
  • In patients on metformin HCl, with or without linagliptin, switch to TRIJARDY XR containing a similar total daily dose of metformin HCl and a total daily dose of empagliflozin 10 mg and linagliptin 5 mg;
  • In patients on metformin HCl and any regimen containing empagliflozin, with or without linagliptin, switch to TRIJARDY XR containing a similar total daily dose of metformin HCl, the same total daily dose of empagliflozin and linagliptin 5 mg.
• Monitor effectiveness and tolerability, and adjust dosing as appropriate, not to exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of empagliflozin 25 mg, linagliptin 5 mg and metformin HCl 2000 mg.
• Take TRIJARDY XR orally, once daily with a meal in the morning.
  • Take TRIJARDY XR 10 mg/5 mg/1000 mg or TRIJARDY XR 25 mg/5 mg/1000 mg as a single tablet once daily.
  • Take TRIJARDY XR 5 mg/2.5 mg/1000 mg or TRIJARDY XR 12.5 mg/2.5 mg/1000 mg as two tablets together once daily.
• Swallow TRIJARDY XR tablets whole. Do not split, crush, dissolve, or chew.

2.3 Dosage Recommendations in Patients with Renal Impairment

• Initiation of TRIJARDY XR is not recommended in patients with an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, due to the metformin component.
• TRIJARDY XR is contraindicated in patients with an eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 or in patients on dialysis [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

2.4 Discontinuation for Iodinated Contrast Imaging Procedures

Discontinue TRIJARDY XR at the time of, or prior to, an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure; restart TRIJARDY XR if renal function is stable [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

5.1 Lactic Acidosis

There have been postmarketing cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis, including fatal cases. These cases had a subtle onset and were accompanied by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, abdominal pain, respiratory distress, or increased somnolence; however, hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias have occurred with severe acidosis. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis was characterized by elevated blood lactate concentrations (>5 mmol/Liter), anion gap acidosis (without evidence of ketonuria or ketonemia), and an increased lactate:pyruvate ratio; metformin plasma levels generally >5 mcg/mL. Metformin decreases liver uptake of lactate increasing lactate blood levels, which may increase the risk of lactic acidosis, especially in patients at risk.

If metformin-associated lactic acidosis is suspected, general supportive measures should be instituted promptly in a hospital setting, along with immediate discontinuation of TRIJARDY XR. In TRIJARDY XR-treated patients with a diagnosis or strong suspicion of lactic acidosis, prompt hemodialysis is recommended to correct the acidosis and remove accumulated metformin (metformin is dialyzable, with a clearance of up to 170 mL/minute under good hemodynamic conditions). Hemodialysis has often resulted in reversal of symptoms and recovery.

Educate patients and their families about the symptoms of lactic acidosis and if these symptoms occur instruct them to discontinue TRIJARDY XR and report these symptoms to their healthcare provider.

For each of the known and possible risk factors for metformin-associated lactic acidosis, recommendations to reduce the risk of and manage metformin-associated lactic acidosis are provided below:

5.2 Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis, including fatal pancreatitis, has been reported in patients treated with linagliptin. In the CARMELINA trial [see Clinical Studies (14)], acute pancreatitis was reported in 9 (0.3%) patients treated with linagliptin and in 5 (0.1%) patients treated with placebo. Two patients treated with linagliptin in the CARMELINA trial had acute pancreatitis with a fatal outcome. There have been postmarketing reports of acute pancreatitis, including fatal pancreatitis, in patients treated with linagliptin.

Take careful notice of potential signs and symptoms of pancreatitis. If pancreatitis is suspected, promptly discontinue TRIJARDY XR and initiate appropriate management. It is unknown whether patients with a history of pancreatitis are at increased risk for the development of pancreatitis while using TRIJARDY XR.

5.3 Ketoacidosis

Reports of ketoacidosis, a serious life-threatening condition requiring urgent hospitalization have been identified in clinical trials and postmarketing surveillance in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, including empagliflozin. Fatal cases of ketoacidosis have been reported in patients taking empagliflozin. In placebo-controlled trials of patients with type 1 diabetes, the risk of ketoacidosis was increased in patients who received SGLT2 inhibitors compared to patients who received placebo. TRIJARDY XR is not indicated for the treatment of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus [see Indications and Usage (1)].

Patients treated with TRIJARDY XR who present with signs and symptoms consistent with severe metabolic acidosis should be assessed for ketoacidosis regardless of presenting blood glucose levels, as ketoacidosis associated with TRIJARDY XR may be present even if blood glucose levels are less than 250 mg/dL. If ketoacidosis is suspected, TRIJARDY XR should be discontinued, patient should be evaluated, and prompt treatment should be instituted. Treatment of ketoacidosis may require insulin, fluid and carbohydrate replacement.

In many of the postmarketing reports, and particularly in patients with type 1 diabetes, the presence of ketoacidosis was not immediately recognized and institution of treatment was delayed because presenting blood glucose levels were below those typically expected for diabetic ketoacidosis (often less than 250 mg/dL). Signs and symptoms at presentation were consistent with dehydration and severe metabolic acidosis and included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, generalized malaise, and shortness of breath. In some but not all cases, factors predisposing to ketoacidosis such as insulin dose reduction, acute febrile illness, reduced caloric intake, surgery, pancreatic disorders suggesting insulin deficiency (e.g., type 1 diabetes, history of pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery), and alcohol abuse were identified.

Before initiating TRIJARDY XR, consider factors in the patient history that may predispose to ketoacidosis including pancreatic insulin deficiency from any cause, caloric restriction, and alcohol abuse.

For patients who undergo scheduled surgery, consider temporarily discontinuing TRIJARDY XR for at least 3 days prior to surgery [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)].

Consider monitoring for ketoacidosis and temporarily discontinuing TRIJARDY XR in other clinical situations known to predispose to ketoacidosis (e.g., prolonged fasting due to acute illness or post-surgery). Ensure risk factors for ketoacidosis are resolved prior to restarting TRIJARDY XR.

Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of ketoacidosis and instruct patients to discontinue TRIJARDY XR and seek medical attention immediately if signs and symptoms occur.

5.4 Volume Depletion

Empagliflozin can cause intravascular volume depletion which may sometimes manifest as symptomatic hypotension or acute transient changes in creatinine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. There have been post-marketing reports of acute kidney injury, some requiring hospitalization and dialysis, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving SGLT2 inhibitors, including empagliflozin. Patients with impaired renal function (eGFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2), elderly patients, or patients on loop diuretics may be at increased risk for volume depletion or hypotension. Before initiating TRIJARDY XR in patients with one or more of these characteristics, assess volume status and renal function. In patients with volume depletion, correct this condition before initiating TRIJARDY XR. Monitor for signs and symptoms of volume depletion, and renal function after initiating therapy.

5.5 Urosepsis and Pyelonephritis

There have been reports of serious urinary tract infections including urosepsis and pyelonephritis requiring hospitalization in patients receiving SGLT2 inhibitors, including empagliflozin. Treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors increases the risk for urinary tract infections. Evaluate patients for signs and symptoms of urinary tract infections and treat promptly, if indicated [see Adverse Reactions (6)].

5.6 Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues

Insulin and insulin secretagogues are known to cause hypoglycemia. The risk of hypoglycemia is increased when TRIJARDY XR is used in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin. Therefore, a lower dose of the insulin secretagogue or insulin may be required to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with TRIJARDY XR.

5.7 Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier's Gangrene)

Reports of necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier's gangrene), a rare but serious and life-threatening necrotizing infection requiring urgent surgical intervention, have been identified in patients with diabetes mellitus receiving SGLT2 inhibitors, including empagliflozin. Cases have been reported in both females and males. Serious outcomes have included hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and death.

Patients treated with TRIJARDY XR presenting with pain or tenderness, erythema, or swelling in the genital or perineal area, along with fever or malaise, should be assessed for necrotizing fasciitis. If suspected, start treatment immediately with broad-spectrum antibiotics and, if necessary, surgical debridement. Discontinue TRIJARDY XR, closely monitor blood glucose levels, and provide appropriate alternative therapy for glycemic control.

5.8 Genital Mycotic Infections

Empagliflozin increases the risk for genital mycotic infections [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Patients with a history of chronic or recurrent genital mycotic infections were more likely to develop genital mycotic infections. Monitor and treat as appropriate.

5.9 Hypersensitivity Reactions

There have been postmarketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions in patients treated with linagliptin. These reactions include anaphylaxis, angioedema, and exfoliative skin conditions. Onset of these reactions occurred predominantly within the first 3 months after initiation of treatment with linagliptin, with some reports occurring after the first dose.

Angioedema has also been reported with other dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Use caution in a patient with a history of angioedema to another DPP-4 inhibitor because it is unknown whether such patients will be predisposed to angioedema with TRIJARDY XR.

There have been postmarketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., angioedema) in patients treated with empagliflozin.

If a hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue TRIJARDY XR, treat promptly per standard of care, and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve. TRIJARDY XR is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to linagliptin, empagliflozin or any of the excipients in TRIJARDY XR [see Contraindications (4)].

5.10 Vitamin B12 Deficiency

In metformin clinical trials of 29-week duration, a decrease to subnormal levels of previously normal serum vitamin B12 levels was observed in approximately 7% of metformin-treated patients. Such decrease, possibly due to interference with B12 absorption from the B12-intrinsic factor complex, may be associated with anemia but appears to be rapidly reversible with discontinuation of metformin or vitamin B12 supplementation. Certain individuals (those with inadequate vitamin B12 or calcium intake or absorption) appear to be predisposed to developing subnormal vitamin B12 levels. Measure hematologic parameters on an annual basis and vitamin B12 at 2 to 3 year intervals in patients on TRIJARDY XR and manage any abnormalities [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.11 Severe and Disabling Arthralgia

There have been postmarketing reports of severe and disabling arthralgia in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors. The time to onset of symptoms following initiation of drug therapy varied from one day to years. Patients experienced relief of symptoms upon discontinuation of the medication. A subset of patients experienced a recurrence of symptoms when restarting the same drug or a different DPP-4 inhibitor. Consider DPP-4 inhibitors as a possible cause for severe joint pain and discontinue drug if appropriate.

5.12 Bullous Pemphigoid

Bullous pemphigoid was reported in 7 (0.2%) patients treated with linagliptin compared to none in patients treated with placebo in the CARMELINA trial [see Clinical Studies (14)], and 3 of these patients were hospitalized due to bullous pemphigoid. Postmarketing cases of bullous pemphigoid requiring hospitalization have been reported with DPP-4 inhibitor use. In reported cases, patients typically recovered with topical or systemic immunosuppressive treatment and discontinuation of the DPP-4 inhibitor. Tell patients to report development of blisters or erosions while receiving TRIJARDY XR. If bullous pemphigoid is suspected, TRIJARDY XR should be discontinued and referral to a dermatologist should be considered for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

5.13 Heart Failure

An association between DPP-4 inhibitor treatment and heart failure has been observed in cardiovascular outcomes trials for two other members of the DPP-4 inhibitor class. These trials evaluated patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Consider the risks and benefits of TRIJARDY XR prior to initiating treatment in patients at risk for heart failure, such as those with a prior history of heart failure and a history of renal impairment, and observe these patients for signs and symptoms of heart failure during therapy. Advise patients of the characteristic symptoms of heart failure and to immediately report such symptoms. If heart failure develops, evaluate and manage according to current standards of care and consider discontinuation of TRIJARDY XR.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

Additional adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of linagliptin, empagliflozin, or metformin. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

• Acute Pancreatitis, including Fatal Pancreatitis [see Indications and Usage (1)]
• Ketoacidosis
• Urosepsis and Pyelonephritis
• Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier's gangrene)
• Hypersensitivity Reactions including Anaphylaxis, Angioedema, and Exfoliative Skin Conditions
• Severe and Disabling Arthralgia
• Bullous Pemphigoid
• Acute Kidney Injury
• Skin Reactions (e.g., rash, urticaria)
• Mouth Ulceration, Stomatitis
• Cholestatic, hepatocellular, and mixed hepatocellular liver injury
• Rhabdomyolysis

8.1 Pregnancy

8.2 Lactation

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

Discuss the potential for unintended pregnancy with premenopausal women as therapy with metformin may result in ovulation in some anovulatory women.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of TRIJARDY XR have not been established in pediatric patients.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Assess renal function more frequently in TRIJARDY XR-treated geriatric patients because there is a greater risk of empagliflozin-associated intravascular volume contraction and symptomatic hypotension in geriatric patients and there is a greater risk of metformin-associated lactic acidosis in geriatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.4)].

The recommended dosage for the metformin component of TRIJARDY XR in geriatric patients should usually start at the lower end of the dosage range.

Of the 273 patients treated with the combination of empagliflozin, linagliptin, and metformin hydrochloride to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 58 were 65 years of age and older, while 8 were 75 years of age and older. Clinical studies of TRIJARDY XR did not include sufficient numbers of geriatric patients to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult patients.

8.6 Renal Impairment

TRIJARDY XR should not be initiated in patients with an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 due to the metformin component and is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2), end-stage renal disease, or dialysis.

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

Use of metformin in patients with hepatic impairment has been associated with some cases of lactic acidosis. TRIJARDY XR is not recommended in patients with hepatic impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Empagliflozin

Empagliflozin is an inhibitor of the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2).

The chemical name of empagliflozin is D-Glucitol,1,5-anhydro-1-C-[4-chloro-3-[[4-[[(3S)-tetrahydro-3-furanyl]oxy]phenyl]methyl]phenyl]-, (1S).

The molecular formula is C23H27ClO7 and the molecular weight is 450.91. The structural formula is:

Empagliflozin is a white to yellowish, non-hygroscopic powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, sparingly soluble in methanol, slightly soluble in ethanol and acetonitrile, soluble in 50% acetonitrile/water, and practically insoluble in toluene.

Linagliptin

Linagliptin is an inhibitor of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme.

The chemical name of linagliptin is 1H-Purine-2,6-dione, 8-[(3R)-3-amino-1-piperidinyl]-7-(2-butyn-1-yl)-3,7-dihydro-3-methyl-1-[(4-methyl-2-quinazolinyl)methyl]-

The molecular formula is C25H28N8O2 and the molecular weight is 472.54. The structural formula is:

Linagliptin is a white to yellowish, not or only slightly hygroscopic solid substance. It is very slightly soluble in water. Linagliptin is soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in ethanol, very slightly soluble in isopropanol, and very slightly soluble in acetone.

Metformin hydrochloride

Metformin hydrochloride (N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide hydrochloride) is a biguanide. Metformin hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline compound with a molecular formula of C4H11N5∙HCl and a molecular weight of 165.63. Metformin hydrochloride is freely soluble in water and is practically insoluble in acetone, ether, and chloroform. The pKa of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin hydrochloride is 6.68. The structural formula is:

TRIJARDY XR

Each film coated tablet of TRIJARDY XR consists of an extended-release metformin hydrochloride core tablet that is coated with the immediate-release drug substances: empagliflozin and linagliptin.

TRIJARDY XR tablets for oral administration are available in four strengths containing:

• 5 mg empagliflozin/2.5 mg linagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride extended-release
• 10 mg empagliflozin/5 mg linagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride extended-release
• 12.5 mg empagliflozin/2.5 mg linagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride extended-release
• 25 mg empagliflozin/5 mg linagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride extended-release

Each film-coated tablet of TRIJARDY XR contains the following inactive ingredients: Tablet Core: polyethylene oxide, hypromellose, and magnesium stearate. Film Coatings and Printing Ink: hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, talc, titanium dioxide, arginine, polyethylene glycol, carnauba wax, purified water, shellac glaze, n-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, ammonium hydroxide, isopropyl alcohol, ferrosoferric oxide and ferric oxide yellow (5 mg/2.5 mg/1000 mg and 25 mg/5 mg/1000 mg), ferric oxide yellow and ferric oxide red (10 mg/5 mg/1000 mg), and ferrosoferric oxide and ferric oxide red (12.5 mg/2.5 mg /1000 mg).

12.1 Mechanism of Action

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Administration of TRIJARDY XR with food resulted in no change in overall exposure of empagliflozin or linagliptin. For metformin extended-release, high-fat meals increased systemic exposure (as measured by area-under-the-curve [AUC]) by approximately 70% relative to fasting, while Cmax is not affected. Meals prolonged Tmax by approximately 3 hours.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Empagliflozin and Linagliptin Add-on Combination Therapy with Metformin for Glycemic Control

A total of 686 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in a double-blind, active-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg in combination with linagliptin 5 mg, compared to the individual components.

Patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on at least 1500 mg of metformin per day entered a single-blind placebo run-in period for 2 weeks. At the end of the run-in period, patients who remained inadequately controlled and had an HbA1c between 7% and 10.5% were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to one of 5 active-treatment arms of empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg, linagliptin 5 mg, or linagliptin 5 mg in combination with 10 mg or 25 mg empagliflozin as a fixed dose combination tablet.

At Week 24, empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg used in combination with linagliptin 5 mg provided statistically significant improvement in HbA1c (p-value <0.0001) and FPG (p-value <0.001) compared to the individual components in patients who had been inadequately controlled on metformin (see Table 7, Figure 3). Treatment with empagliflozin 10 mg or 25 mg used in combination with linagliptin 5 mg also resulted in a statistically significant reduction in body weight compared to linagliptin 5 mg (p-value <0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference compared to empagliflozin alone.

Empagliflozin Cardiovascular Outcome Study in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Empagliflozin is indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease. The effect of empagliflozin on cardiovascular risk in adult patients with type 2 diabetes and established, stable, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is presented below.

The EMPA-REG OUTCOME study, a multicenter, multinational, randomized, double-blind parallel group trial compared the risk of experiencing a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) between empagliflozin and placebo when these were added to and used concomitantly with standard of care treatments for diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Coadministered antidiabetic medications were to be kept stable for the first 12 weeks of the trial. Thereafter, antidiabetic and atherosclerotic therapies could be adjusted, at the discretion of investigators, to ensure participants were treated according to the standard care for these diseases.

A total of 7020 patients were treated (empagliflozin 10 mg = 2345; empagliflozin 25 mg = 2342; placebo = 2333) and followed for a median of 3.1 years. Approximately 72% of the study population was Caucasian, 22% was Asian, and 5% was Black. The mean age was 63 years and approximately 72% were male.

All patients in the study had inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus at baseline (HbA1c greater than or equal to 7%). The mean HbA1c at baseline was 8.1% and 57% of participants had diabetes for more than 10 years. Approximately 31%, 22% and 20% reported a past history of neuropathy, retinopathy and nephropathy to investigators, respectively and the mean eGFR was 74 mL/min/1.73 m2. At baseline, patients were treated with one (~30%) or more (~70%) antidiabetic medications including metformin (74%), insulin (48%), sulfonylurea (43%) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (11%).

All patients had established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease at baseline including one (82%) or more (18%) of the following: a documented history of coronary artery disease (76%), stroke (23%) or peripheral artery disease (21%). At baseline, the mean systolic blood pressure was 136 mmHg, the mean diastolic blood pressure was 76 mmHg, the mean LDL was 86 mg/dL, the mean HDL was 44 mg/dL, and the mean urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) was 175 mg/g. At baseline, approximately 81% of patients were treated with renin angiotensin system inhibitors, 65% with beta-blockers, 43% with diuretics, 77% with statins, and 86% with antiplatelet agents (mostly aspirin).

The primary endpoint in EMPA-REG OUTCOME was the time to first occurrence of a Major Adverse Cardiac Event (MACE). A major adverse cardiac event was defined as occurrence of either a cardiovascular death or a non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI) or a non-fatal stroke. The statistical analysis plan had pre-specified that the 10 and 25 mg doses would be combined. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to test for non-inferiority against the pre-specified risk margin of 1.3 for the hazard ratio of MACE and superiority on MACE if non-inferiority was demonstrated. Type-1 error was controlled across multiples tests using a hierarchical testing strategy.

Empagliflozin significantly reduced the risk of first occurrence of primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke (HR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.74, 0.99). The treatment effect was due to a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular death in subjects randomized to empagliflozin (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.49, 0.77), with no change in the risk of non-fatal myocardial infarction or non-fatal stroke (see Table 8 and Figures 4 and 5). Results for the 10 mg and 25 mg empagliflozin doses were consistent with results for the combined dose groups.

The efficacy of empagliflozin on cardiovascular death was generally consistent across major demographic and disease subgroups.

Vital status was obtained for 99.2% of subjects in the trial. A total of 463 deaths were recorded during the EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial. Most of these deaths were categorized as cardiovascular deaths. The non-cardiovascular deaths were only a small proportion of deaths and were balanced between the treatment groups (2.1% in patients treated with empagliflozin, and 2.4% of patients treated with placebo).

Linagliptin Cardiovascular Safety Trials

Storage

Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from exposure to high humidity.

Lactic Acidosis

Inform patients of the risks of lactic acidosis due to metformin, its symptoms, and conditions that predispose to its development. Advise patients to discontinue TRIJARDY XR immediately and to notify their healthcare provider promptly if unexplained hyperventilation, malaise, myalgia, unusual somnolence, or other nonspecific symptoms occur. Counsel patients against excessive alcohol intake and inform patients about importance of regular testing of renal function while receiving TRIJARDY XR. Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider that they are taking TRIJARDY XR prior to any surgical or radiological procedure, as temporary discontinuation may be required until renal function has been confirmed to be normal [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Pancreatitis

Inform patients that acute pancreatitis has been reported during use of linagliptin. Inform patients that persistent severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back, which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting, is the hallmark symptom of acute pancreatitis. Instruct patients to discontinue TRIJARDY XR promptly and contact their healthcare provider if persistent severe abdominal pain occurs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Ketoacidosis

Inform patients that ketoacidosis is a serious life-threatening condition and that cases of ketoacidosis have been reported during use of empagliflozin, sometimes associated with illness or surgery among other risk factors. Instruct patients to check ketones (when possible) if symptoms consistent with ketoacidosis occur even if blood glucose is not elevated. If symptoms of ketoacidosis (including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tiredness, and labored breathing) occur, instruct patients to discontinue TRIJARDY XR and seek medical attention immediately [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Volume Depletion

Inform patients that symptomatic hypotension may occur with TRIJARDY XR and advise them to contact their healthcare provider if they experience such symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Inform patients that dehydration may increase the risk for hypotension, and to maintain adequate fluid intake.

Serious Urinary Tract Infections

Inform patients of the potential for urinary tract infections, which may be serious. Provide them with information on the symptoms of urinary tract infections. Advise them to seek medical advice if such symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use with Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues

Inform patients that the incidence of hypoglycemia is increased when TRIJARDY XR is used in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin, and that a lower dose of the insulin secretagogue or insulin may be required to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].

Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum (Fournier's Gangrene)

Inform patients that necrotizing infections of the perineum (Fournier's gangrene) have occurred with empagliflozin, a component of TRIJARDY XR. Counsel patients to promptly seek medical attention if they develop pain or tenderness, redness, or swelling of the genitals or the area from the genitals back to the rectum, along with a fever above 100.4°F or malaise [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Genital Mycotic Infections in Females (e.g., Vulvovaginitis)

Inform female patients that vaginal yeast infections may occur and provide them with information on the signs and symptoms of vaginal yeast infections. Advise them of treatment options and when to seek medical advice [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

Genital Mycotic Infections in Males (e.g., Balanitis or Balanoposthitis)

Inform male patients that yeast infection of the penis (e.g., balanitis or balanoposthitis) may occur, especially in uncircumcised males and patients with chronic and recurrent infections. Provide them with information on the signs and symptoms of balanitis and balanoposthitis (rash or redness of the glans or foreskin of the penis). Advise them of treatment options and when to seek medical advice [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Inform patients that serious allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, angioedema, and exfoliative skin conditions, have been reported during postmarketing use of linagliptin or empagliflozin, components of TRIJARDY XR. If symptoms of allergic reactions (such as rash, skin flaking or peeling, urticaria, swelling of the skin, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing) occur, patients must stop taking TRIJARDY XR and seek medical advice promptly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Inform patients about importance of regular hematological parameters while receiving TRIJARDY XR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

Severe and Disabling Arthralgia

Inform patients that severe and disabling joint pain may occur with this class of drugs. The time to onset of symptoms can range from one day to years. Instruct patients to seek medical advice if severe joint pain occurs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].

Bullous Pemphigoid

Inform patients that bullous pemphigoid has been reported during use of linagliptin. Instruct patients to seek medical advice if blisters or erosions occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].

Heart Failure

Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of heart failure. Before initiating TRIJARDY XR, patients should be asked about a history of heart failure or other risk factors for heart failure including moderate to severe renal impairment. Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible if they experience symptoms of heart failure, including increasing shortness of breath, rapid increase in weight or swelling of the feet [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)].

Laboratory Tests

Inform patients that elevated glucose in urinalysis is expected when taking TRIJARDY XR.

Pregnancy

Advise pregnant patients, and patients of reproductive potential, of the potential risk to a fetus with treatment with TRIJARDY XR [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Instruct patients to report pregnancies to their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Lactation

Advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with TRIJARDY XR [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

Patients of Reproductive Potential

Inform patients that treatment with metformin may result in ovulation in some premenopausal anovulatory patients, which may lead to unintended pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Administration Instructions

Inform patients that the tablets must be swallowed whole and never split, crushed, dissolved, or chewed and that incompletely dissolved TRIJARDY XR tablets may be eliminated in the feces.

Missed Dose

Instruct patients to take TRIJARDY XR only as prescribed. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as the patient remembers. Advise patients not to double their next dose.