Indications
- Sitagliptin is utilized, along with a proper diet and exercise regimen, and possibly other medications, to manage high blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
- Effective control of high blood sugar aids in preventing complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, limb loss, and sexual function issues. It may also reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes.
- Sitagliptin is a diabetes drug that operates by elevating levels of natural substances called incretins.
- Incretins contribute to blood sugar control by increasing insulin release, especially post-meal, and reducing the sugar produced by the liver.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before starting sitagliptin and with each refill. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
- Take this medication by mouth with or without food, following your doctor’s instructions, usually once daily.
- The dosage is determined based on your medical condition, kidney function, and response to treatment. Take the medication regularly to derive the most benefit. To help remember, take it at the same time daily. Adhere to the prescribed medication, meal, and exercise plans recommended by your doctor.
- Monitor your blood sugar regularly as directed by your doctor. Keep a record of the results and share them with your doctor. Inform your doctor if your blood sugar levels are too high or too low, as your dosage or treatment may need adjustment.
Side effects
- The prescribed use of sitagliptin is based on the assessment that its benefits outweigh the risk of potential side effects, and many users do not experience serious side effects.
- While sitagliptin typically does not cause low blood sugar on its own, it may occur when used with other diabetes medications. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if the dosage of other diabetes medications needs adjustment.
- Symptoms of low blood sugar may include sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. It is advisable to carry glucose tablets or gel for such situations. In the absence of these, rapidly raise blood sugar with a quick source of sugar like table sugar, honey, candy, or fruit juice. Report the reaction to your doctor immediately. Low blood sugar is more likely under certain conditions like excessive alcohol consumption, intense exercise, or insufficient caloric intake. Prevent low blood sugar by eating regular meals and not skipping them. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance if you miss a meal.
- Symptoms of high blood sugar include increased thirst/urination. If these symptoms occur, inform your doctor promptly, as adjustments to your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet may be necessary.
- Report any serious side effects to your doctor, including signs of kidney problems, joint pain, unusual skin blisters, or signs of heart failure.
- Seek immediate medical help if you experience very serious side effects, such as signs of pancreatitis or a severe allergic reaction.
- The listed information does not encompass all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for additional details.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to sitagliptin or other allergies, as the product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have kidney disease, heart failure, pancreatitis, or gallstones.
- Be cautious of potential side effects like blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to low or high blood sugar. Avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do them safely.
- Limit alcohol intake while using this medication, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
- Inform your doctor before undergoing surgery or dental procedures about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only, when necessary, as pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Discuss a plan with your doctor for managing blood sugar during pregnancy and be prepared for potential changes in your diabetes treatment. Evaluate the risks and benefits of various treatments, including diet, exercise, and medications (including insulin).
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether this drug passes into breast milk.