Indications
- The combination medication is used to control high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes.
- It contains two medications: Sitagliptin and Metformin.
- Sitagliptin increases incretin levels, helping control blood sugar by enhancing insulin release after meals and reducing liver sugar production.
- Metformin restores the body’s proper response to insulin and decreases liver sugar production as well as sugar absorption in the stomach/intestines.
- Controlling high blood sugar is essential to prevent complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, limb loss, and sexual function issues. It also reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.
- This medication is typically used in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program, and it may be combined with other medications for diabetes management.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide provided by the pharmacist before using sitagliptin/metformin.
- Take the medication orally as directed by the doctor, usually twice a day with meals.
- Stay hydrated unless directed otherwise by the doctor; do not break or cut the tablet without instruction.
- If swallowing the tablet whole is challenging, inform the doctor.
- Dosage is based on medical condition, treatment response, and concurrent medications.
- Inform the doctor about all products used, including prescriptions, non-prescriptions, and herbal items.
- To minimize side effects, the doctor may recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it.
- Take the medication regularly at the same times each day for optimal benefits.
- If switching from another diabetes drug, follow the doctor’s instructions for discontinuing the old drug and starting this one.
- Follow the prescribed medication plan, meal plan, and exercise program.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly and share the results with the doctor.
- Inform the doctor if blood sugar levels are too high or too low, as dosage or treatment may need adjustment.
Side effects
- Possible side effects of the medication may include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, headache, weakness, or a metallic taste in the mouth.
- If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- Notify your doctor immediately if stomach symptoms return later in your treatment, as they may be signs of lactic acidosis.
- Understand that the prescribed medication is considered beneficial despite the potential side effects.
- This medication generally does not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), but it may occur when combined with other diabetes medications.
- Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if the dose of other diabetes medications needs adjustment.
- Symptoms of low blood sugar include sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet.
- Carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar and inform your doctor about any reactions promptly.
- Low blood sugar is more likely with excessive alcohol consumption, intense exercise, or inadequate calorie intake. Eat meals regularly and do not skip them to help prevent low blood sugar.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine what to do if you miss a meal.
- Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include increased thirst/urination; inform your doctor if these occur.
- Report any serious side effects to your doctor, including signs of kidney problems, joint pain, unusual skin blisters, signs of heart failure, signs of pancreatitis, or symptoms of lactic acidosis (see Warning section).
- Seek immediate medical help for any very serious allergic reactions, including rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list may not cover all possible side effects, so contact your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns.
Precautions
- Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have, as inactive ingredients may cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history, especially severe breathing problems, blood problems, kidney disease, liver disease, pancreatitis, or gallstones, with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Before surgery or X-ray procedures with iodinated contrast, notify your healthcare providers about all medications you use, as you may need to stop this medication temporarily.
- Experience of blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar may occur. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can perform them safely.
- Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar.
- Conditions like high fever, diuretic use, excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may lead to dehydration and increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Stop the medication and inform your doctor if you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. Stay hydrated unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
- During periods of increased stress (fever, infection, injury, surgery), consult your doctor, as your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing may need adjustment.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects such as low blood sugar or lactic acidosis.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly needed, and discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend insulin instead of this product during pregnancy, and reliable birth control should be considered due to metformin’s effects on the menstrual cycle.
- Metformin can pass into breast milk in small amounts. It’s unknown if sitagliptin does. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.