Saxagliptin
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Saxagliptin
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Click HereSummary
Saxagliptin is used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults. It helps lower blood sugar levels when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Saxagliptin works by inhibiting an enzyme called DPP4. This slows the breakdown of certain hormones, leading to increased insulin production and decreased glucagon levels. As a result, it helps lower blood sugar levels.
The usual daily dose of Saxagliptin for adults is 2.5 mg or 5 mg. It is taken orally, once a day, with or without food.
Common side effects of Saxagliptin include upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, and headache. It can also cause nausea and vomiting. If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Saxagliptin has warnings for the risk of pancreatitis and heart failure. It is not recommended for patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions to Saxagliptin. If pancreatitis or heart failure develops, the medication should be discontinued.
Indications and Purpose
How does one know if Saxagliptin is working?
The benefit of Saxagliptin is evaluated by regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) to assess its effectiveness in controlling diabetes. Your doctor may also recommend checking blood or urine sugar levels at home.
How does Saxagliptin work?
Saxagliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which slows the breakdown of incretin hormones. This leads to increased insulin production and decreased glucagon levels, helping to lower blood sugar levels in a glucose-dependent manner.
Is Saxagliptin effective?
Saxagliptin has been shown to effectively lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes when used alongside diet and exercise. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to improve glycemic control, as evidenced by reductions in A1C, fasting plasma glucose, and postprandial glucose levels.
What is Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin is used to manage type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels when combined with diet and exercise. It belongs to a class of medications called DPP-4 inhibitors, which increase insulin production after meals by preventing the breakdown of incretin hormones.
What is Saxagliptin used for?
Saxagliptin is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes in adults. It is used to improve glycemic control when combined with diet and exercise. It is not recommended for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin is typically used as a long-term treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel well, as it helps control blood sugar levels over time.
How do I take Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin should be taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is important to follow a healthy diet as recommended by your doctor to manage diabetes effectively.
How long does it take for Saxagliptin to start working?
Saxagliptin begins to work within a few hours of taking a dose, but it may take several weeks to see the full effect on blood sugar levels. Regular monitoring of blood sugar is important to assess its effectiveness.
How should I store Saxagliptin?
Store Saxagliptin in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Saxagliptin?
The usual daily dose of Saxagliptin for adults is 2.5 mg or 5 mg taken orally once a day, with or without food. Saxagliptin is not recommended for use in children as its safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Saxagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Saxagliptin's dosage should be adjusted when used with strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitors like ketoconazole or ritonavir. It may also increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used with insulin or insulin secretagogues, requiring dosage adjustments of these medications.
Can Saxagliptin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no information on the presence of Saxagliptin in human milk or its effects on the breastfed infant. It is important to weigh the benefits of breastfeeding against the mother's need for Saxagliptin and any potential adverse effects on the infant.
Can Saxagliptin be taken safely while pregnant?
There is limited data on the use of Saxagliptin during pregnancy, and its effects on the fetus are not well established. It is important to discuss with your doctor the potential risks and benefits of using Saxagliptin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Saxagliptin?
Drinking alcohol can affect blood sugar levels, which may interfere with the effectiveness of Saxagliptin in managing type 2 diabetes. It is important to discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, as they can provide personalized advice based on your health condition.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin does not typically limit the ability to exercise. In fact, exercise is an important part of managing type 2 diabetes along with medication. If you experience any unusual symptoms during exercise, consult your doctor.
Is Saxagliptin safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have decreased renal function, which can affect how Saxagliptin is processed in the body. It is important to assess kidney function before starting Saxagliptin and monitor it regularly. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on renal function.
Who should avoid taking Saxagliptin?
Important warnings for Saxagliptin include the risk of pancreatitis, heart failure, and serious allergic reactions. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity reactions to Saxagliptin. Patients should be monitored for signs of pancreatitis and heart failure, and the medication should be discontinued if these conditions develop.
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