Key takeaways
Farxiga (dapagliflozin) and metformin are both used to manage Type 2 diabetes, but they have several differences between them. Farxiga helps your kidneys remove excess sugar through urine, and it can also lower the risk of heart failure and chronic kidney disease complications. Metformin works in your liver to reduce sugar production and improve insulin use. Unlike Farxiga, metformin is available in generic form and is often a first-choice medication for diabetes. Farxiga is taken once daily, while metformin can be taken once or twice daily, usually with food to avoid stomach upset. Farxiga may cause more frequent urination and increase the risk of urinary tract infections, whereas metformin commonly causes stomach issues like diarrhea and nausea. Farxiga is not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, while metformin's main serious risk is lactic acidosis, especially in those with kidney or liver problems.
