Saxagliptin
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Saxagliptin
Summary
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 Saxagliptin work?
Saxagliptin works by inhibiting an enzyme called DPP-4, which breaks down hormones that help regulate blood sugar. By blocking this enzyme, Saxagliptin increases insulin levels and decreases glucose production in the liver. This helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Think of it like a traffic controller, ensuring the right amount of insulin is available to manage blood sugar effectively.
Is Saxagliptin effective?
Saxagliptin is effective for treating type 2 diabetes. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called DPP-4, which helps increase insulin levels and decrease blood sugar. Clinical studies show Saxagliptin improves blood sugar control in diabetes patients, lowering HbA1c levels. It is often used in combination with other diabetes medications to enhance its effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's advice on using Saxagliptin as part of your diabetes management plan.
What is Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which help control blood sugar levels by increasing insulin and decreasing glucose production. Saxagliptin is used alongside diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It may be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications to enhance its effectiveness.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin is usually a long-term medication for managing type 2 diabetes. You'll typically take Saxagliptin every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of Saxagliptin?
If you can, bring unused Saxagliptin to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Saxagliptin?
Take Saxagliptin as a once-daily pill, usually in the morning, with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablet. 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. Never take two doses at once. While taking Saxagliptin, there are no specific dietary restrictions, but it's important to follow your doctor's advice on diet and fluid intake.
How long does it take for Saxagliptin to start working?
Saxagliptin begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. For type 2 diabetes, you might see some improvement in blood sugar levels within a few weeks. The full therapeutic effect may take several months to appear. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and how well you follow your treatment plan. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Saxagliptin?
Store Saxagliptin at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from damage. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store Saxagliptin 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 Saxagliptin?
The usual starting dose of Saxagliptin for adults is 5 mg once daily, with or without food. There is no need for dose adjustments based on age, but those with kidney problems may require a lower dose. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication and any side effects you experience.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Saxagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Saxagliptin can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of low blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia, when taken with insulin or sulfonylureas. It may also interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, which are drugs that affect how Saxagliptin is broken down in the body, potentially increasing its levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications you take to avoid interactions and ensure safe and effective treatment.
Can Saxagliptin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Saxagliptin is not recommended while breastfeeding due to limited information on its safety. We don't know if this medication passes into human breast milk or how it might affect a breastfed baby. If you're taking Saxagliptin and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Saxagliptin be taken safely while pregnant?
Saxagliptin isn't recommended during pregnancy due to limited information on its safety. Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can cause serious problems for both mother and baby, including diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous buildup of acids in your blood. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your blood sugar during this important time.
Does Saxagliptin have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Saxagliptin can cause some adverse effects, though most people tolerate it well. Common effects include upper respiratory infections and headaches. Serious effects like pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, and severe joint pain are rare but require immediate medical attention. Always tell your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking Saxagliptin.
Does Saxagliptin have any safety warnings?
Saxagliptin has important safety warnings. It may increase the risk of heart failure, especially in people with existing heart or kidney problems. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or sudden weight gain, contact your doctor immediately. Saxagliptin can also cause severe joint pain and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. If you experience severe stomach pain, stop taking the medication and seek medical help. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new or worsening symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Saxagliptin?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Saxagliptin. Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of low blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia, and may worsen side effects like dizziness. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for warning signs like dizziness or confusion. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Saxagliptin to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Saxagliptin?
You can exercise while taking Saxagliptin, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can lower your blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia, particularly if you take insulin or certain other diabetes medications. Low blood sugar might make you feel weak during workouts. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. Watch for signs of dizziness or low blood sugar, and rest if needed.
Is it safe to stop Saxagliptin?
Stopping Saxagliptin suddenly can cause your blood sugar levels to rise quickly, which may worsen your diabetes. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Saxagliptin. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is Saxagliptin addictive?
Saxagliptin is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Saxagliptin 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. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is Saxagliptin safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to medication risks due to age-related changes in the body. Saxagliptin is generally safe for the elderly, but they may have a higher risk of heart failure and kidney problems. Careful monitoring by a healthcare provider is important. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function. Always consult your doctor about the safety of Saxagliptin for elderly patients.
What are the most common side effects of Saxagliptin?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Saxagliptin include upper respiratory infections, headaches, and urinary tract infections. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Saxagliptin, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Saxagliptin?
Don't take Saxagliptin if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Saxagliptin isn't recommended for people with a history of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Use caution if you have kidney problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
Forms / Brands
