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Saxagliptin

Generic name: saxagliptin [SAX-a-GLIP-tin]
Name of the brand: Onglyza
Dosage format: oral tablet (2.5 mg, 5 mg)
Drug class: dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors

What is Saxagliptin?

Saxagliptin is used in conjunction with exercise and diet to help improve blood sugar control in adults who suffer from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Saxagliptin does not treat type 1 diabetes.

Saxagliptin is often employed in conjunction with diabetes medication.Saxagliptin is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this guideline.

Side effects of Saxagliptin

Contact emergency medical assistance. If you are experiencing symptoms, warning signs of an allergic response, an allergic reaction, such as hives, or a red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes peeling and blistering; difficulties breathing; and swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.

Stop taking saxagliptin, and contact your doctor as soon as you are suffering from pancreatitis symptoms: extreme discomfort in your stomach, which then spreads into your back, vomiting or vomiting, nausea and vomiting, an appetite loss, or rapid heartbeats.

Saxagliptin may cause serious side effects. Consult your doctor immediately if you suffer from:

  • Persistent or severe joint pain;
  • Discomfort or burning sensation during urination;
  • Heart issues: breathing problems, shortness of breath (even while lying down), and feeling tired or weak; rapid weight gain; swelling (especially on your legs, feet, or midsection).

Common adverse effects of saxagliptin could be:

  • Urination that is painful;
  • Headache;
  • Nasal stuffiness or runny nose, sore throat, cough,
  • Swelling of your feet or hands.

It's not a complete list of the possible side effects. Other adverse effects can be observed. Ask your doctor for advice about medical side effects. It is possible to report any adverse reaction to FDA via 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

It is not recommended to use saxagliptin for those who are suffering from diabetes ketoacidosis (call your physician to seek treatment using insulin).

Saxagliptin is not a treatment option for type 1 diabetes.

Prior to use this drug

It is not recommended to use this medication if you have ever experienced a severe allergy to saxagliptin or if you're in the state of the condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (call your doctor to seek treatment).

Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:

  • Renal disease (or if you're taking dialysis);
  • Coronary disease;
  • Pancreatitis;
  • Gallstones;
  • High triglycerides (a kind of blood fat)
  • Alcoholism.

Follow the instructions of your physician concerning the use of this medicine when you are pregnant or get pregnant. Controlling diabetes is crucial during pregnancy, and being diagnosed with high blood sugar levels could cause issues for pregnant mothers as well as babies.

It is not advised to feed your baby while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor regarding any risks.Saxagliptin is not recommended for use by anyone less than 18 years old.

How to take Saxagliptin?

Follow the instructions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instructions sheets. Your doctor might alter the dosage. Make sure you take the medicine exactly as prescribed.Saxagliptin can be taken in combination with or without food. Follow the directions of your physician.

Take the tablet in one swallow and make sure you don't crush, chew, or break it.The blood sugar level of your body will have to be regularly checked, and you may require additional blood tests in the office of your doctor.There is a possibility that you suffer from lower levels of blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and feel extremely hungry, dizzy, angry, and anxious. You may also feel confused or shakey. To help manage hypoglycemia, take a snack or drink a rapid-acting source of sugar (fruit juice crackers, hard candy raisins, sugar-free soda).

Your physician may recommend the use of a glucagon injection kit if you suffer from severe hypoglycemia. Make sure that your family members or your closest friends are able to administer this injection in the event of an emergency.

The levels of blood sugar are affected when there is illness, stress, surgery, drinking alcohol, exercise, or avoiding meals. Consult your physician prior to altering your dosage of medication schedule.Saxagliptin is merely a component of a full treatment program that could also comprise exercise, diet, the control of weight and blood sugar, and medical treatment. Follow your doctor's advice carefully.Keep the items at room temperature and far from heat and moisture.

Details on dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Diabetes Type 2:

2.5 or 5 mg every day, irrespective of the food you eat.
Coadministration with powerful CYP450 3A4/5 inhibitors (2.5 mg) taken orally, once every day
Use: As an adjunct to exercise and diet to enhance the control of glycemic levels in adults suffering from type 2 diabetes in a variety of clinical situations.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Do not miss the missed dose, and then take your next dose at the normal time unless your doctor informs you that you should take a different dose. Don't do two doses all at a time, and don't take a second dose the following day.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention immediately, contact medical attention immediately, or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. There are signs that you are suffering from low blood sugar, like extreme weakness, confusion, shaking, sweating, a rapid heart rate, and trouble speaking. Nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, fainting, and seizures (convulsions).

What should be avoided?

Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any restrictions on your food, drink, or any activity.

Interaction with other drugs

Other medications may enhance or reduce the effect of saxagliptin on lowering blood sugar levels. Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. There are not all the interactions mentioned in this medication guide.