Ertugliflozin + Sitagliptin
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Sitagliptin and Ertugliflozin
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin.
- Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
- Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin are drugs used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. They are not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a serious condition that can occur in diabetes.
Ertugliflozin works by increasing glucose (sugar) excretion through urine. Sitagliptin enhances insulin release and decreases glucagon levels, which helps control blood sugar levels. Together, they provide a complementary approach to improving blood sugar control.
The usual adult daily dose for the combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin is typically 5 mg of Ertugliflozin and 100 mg of Sitagliptin taken orally once a day. This can be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerance.
Common side effects of Ertugliflozin include increased urination, thirst, and genital yeast infections. Sitagliptin may cause upper respiratory infections, headache, and diarrhea. Both drugs can cause severe allergic reactions and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas.
These drugs are not recommended for patients with severe kidney impairment or those on dialysis. Ertugliflozin carries a risk of ketoacidosis, dehydration, and lower limb amputation, while Sitagliptin may cause pancreatitis and severe allergic reactions. Both should be used cautiously in patients with a history of pancreatitis or heart failure.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin work?
Ertugliflozin works by inhibiting the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) in the kidneys, which reduces glucose reabsorption and increases glucose excretion in urine. Sitagliptin, on the other hand, inhibits the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which increases levels of incretin hormones, enhancing insulin release and reducing glucagon levels. Together, they provide a dual mechanism to lower blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, with Ertugliflozin focusing on renal glucose excretion and Sitagliptin enhancing pancreatic insulin response.
How effective is combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin effectively lowers HbA1c levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ertugliflozin has been shown to increase glucose excretion through urine, while Sitagliptin enhances insulin release and reduces glucagon levels. Together, they provide a complementary approach to improving glycemic control. Studies have also indicated that this combination can help reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as cardiovascular issues and kidney problems, by maintaining better blood sugar levels.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin?
The usual adult daily dose for the combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin is typically 5 mg of Ertugliflozin and 100 mg of Sitagliptin taken orally once a day. This combination can be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerance, with Ertugliflozin potentially increased to 15 mg while maintaining Sitagliptin at 100 mg. Both medications are taken together to enhance blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, complementing each other's mechanisms of action.
How does one take combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin can be taken with or without food, usually once daily in the morning. It's important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's dietary recommendations, which typically include a balanced diet to help manage diabetes. There are no specific food restrictions, but maintaining adequate hydration is important, especially with Ertugliflozin, to prevent dehydration.
For how long is combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin taken?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin are typically used as long-term treatments for managing type 2 diabetes. They are intended to be taken daily, alongside lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, to maintain blood sugar control over time. The duration of use is generally indefinite, as diabetes is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management. Patients should continue taking these medications as prescribed, even if they feel well, and should not stop without consulting their healthcare provider.
How long does it take for combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin to work?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin work together to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Ertugliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, starts working by increasing glucose excretion through urine, while Sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, enhances insulin release and decreases glucagon levels. Both medications typically begin to show effects within a few days of starting treatment, but it may take several weeks to see the full benefits in blood sugar control. The combination aims to improve glycemic control more effectively than either drug alone.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin?
Common side effects of Ertugliflozin include increased urination, thirst, and genital yeast infections. Sitagliptin may cause upper respiratory infections, headache, and diarrhea. Significant adverse effects for both include the risk of pancreatitis and severe allergic reactions. Ertugliflozin can also lead to dehydration and an increased risk of lower limb amputation, while Sitagliptin may cause joint pain and skin reactions. Patients should be aware of these potential side effects and consult their healthcare provider if they experience any severe or persistent symptoms.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin can interact with other diabetes medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Ertugliflozin may also interact with diuretics, potentially leading to dehydration or low blood pressure. Sitagliptin can interact with medications that affect the kidneys, as it is primarily excreted through the renal system. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to manage potential interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin if I am pregnant?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus. Animal studies have shown adverse renal effects with Ertugliflozin, and there is limited data on the use of Sitagliptin in pregnant women. Poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy can lead to complications, so alternative treatments may be considered. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin while breastfeeding?
The safety of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin during lactation and breastfeeding is not well established. Ertugliflozin is present in the milk of lactating rats, and there may be a risk to the developing human kidney if exposed during breastfeeding. Sitagliptin is also secreted in the milk of lactating rats. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, it is generally advised that women do not breastfeed while taking these medications. Patients should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider if they are breastfeeding.
Who should avoid taking combination of Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin?
Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin have several important warnings and contraindications. They are not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment or those on dialysis. Ertugliflozin carries a risk of ketoacidosis, dehydration, and lower limb amputation, while Sitagliptin may cause pancreatitis and severe allergic reactions. Both medications should be used cautiously in patients with a history of pancreatitis or heart failure. Patients should be informed of these risks and advised to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, dehydration, or signs of infection.
