Sitagliptin
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
sitagliptin
Summary
Sitagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes, which is a condition where the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. It helps lower blood sugar levels when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
Sitagliptin works by increasing incretin hormones, which help control blood sugar levels. These hormones increase insulin release and decrease sugar production by the liver, helping to lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
The usual starting dose of Sitagliptin for adults is 100 mg once daily, which can be taken with or without food. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Common side effects of Sitagliptin include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and stomach upset, which refers to discomfort in the stomach area. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild.
Sitagliptin can cause pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, and severe joint pain. It should not be used by people with type 1 diabetes or a history of pancreatitis. Always consult your doctor about any concerns.
Indications and Purpose
How does Sitagliptin work?
Sitagliptin works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help control blood sugar levels. These hormones increase insulin release and decrease the amount of sugar your liver makes. This helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Sitagliptin is often used in combination with other diabetes medications for better results.
Is Sitagliptin effective?
Sitagliptin is effective in treating type 2 diabetes. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help control blood sugar levels. Clinical studies show Sitagliptin improves blood sugar control in diabetes patients, lowering HbA1c levels. It is often used in combination with other diabetes medications for better results.
What is Sitagliptin?
Sitagliptin is a medication for type 2 diabetes that helps control blood sugar when you also follow a healthy diet and exercise plan. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help control blood sugar levels. Sitagliptin is often used in combination with other diabetes medications for better results.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Sitagliptin?
Sitagliptin is usually a long-term medication for managing type 2 diabetes. You'll typically take Sitagliptin every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your conditions to worsen. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Sitagliptin treatment.
How do I dispose of Sitagliptin?
Bring unused Sitagliptin to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. Mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Sitagliptin?
Sitagliptin is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions on how to take it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Sitagliptin to start working?
Sitagliptin begins working in your body shortly after you take it. However, you may not notice all the benefits right away. For type 2 diabetes, you might see some improvement in blood sugar levels within days, but more significant changes typically take several weeks. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Sitagliptin?
Store Sitagliptin at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms. Always store Sitagliptin out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Sitagliptin?
The usual starting dose of Sitagliptin for adults is 100 mg once daily, with or without food. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood sugar levels and how well you tolerate the medication. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Sitagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Sitagliptin can interact with other diabetes medications, increasing the risk of low blood sugar. It may also interact with certain antibiotics and antifungal medications, affecting how well Sitagliptin works. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you take to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe and effective treatment.
Can Sitagliptin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Sitagliptin is not recommended while breastfeeding. We don't have much information about whether it passes into human breast milk. If you're taking Sitagliptin and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Sitagliptin be taken safely while pregnant?
Sitagliptin isn't recommended during pregnancy. We don't have much information about its use in pregnant women. Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can cause serious problems for both mother and baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your blood sugar.
Does Sitagliptin have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Sitagliptin include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and stomach upset. Serious side effects can include pancreatitis and severe joint pain. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Does Sitagliptin have any safety warnings?
Sitagliptin has important safety warnings. It can cause pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, and severe joint pain. If you experience severe stomach pain or joint pain, contact your doctor immediately. Sitagliptin can also cause low blood sugar, especially when taken with other diabetes medications. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Sitagliptin?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Sitagliptin. Alcohol can increase your risk of low blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia. This serious condition requires emergency medical treatment. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for warning signs like dizziness or confusion.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Sitagliptin?
You can exercise while taking Sitagliptin, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can lower your blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia. Low blood sugar might make you feel weak during workouts. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water and watch for signs of low blood sugar. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest.
Is it safe to stop Sitagliptin?
Stopping Sitagliptin suddenly can cause your blood sugar levels to rise quickly. This medication is usually used long-term for managing type 2 diabetes. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Sitagliptin. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
Is Sitagliptin addictive?
Sitagliptin is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Sitagliptin works by affecting enzymes in your body to help control blood sugar levels. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction.
Is Sitagliptin safe for the elderly?
The elderly are more vulnerable to safety risks of medications due to age-related changes in the body. Sitagliptin is generally safe for elderly patients, but they may have a higher risk of low blood sugar, especially when combined with other diabetes medications. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary.
What are the most common side effects of Sitagliptin?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Sitagliptin include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and stomach upset. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Sitagliptin, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Sitagliptin?
Don't take Sitagliptin if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions require immediate medical help. This medication isn't for people with type 1 diabetes. Sitagliptin shouldn't be used by people with a history of pancreatitis. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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