Qtern is a combination tablet that contains dapagliflozin and saxagliptin, used to manage type 2 diabetes in adults. It works by helping the body remove excess sugar through urine and improving insulin function to maintain better blood sugar control. Medication is usually prescribed when diet, exercise, and other diabetes medications are not enough.

What Is Qtern?

Qtern is a prescription medication used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is a combination of two active ingredients: dapagliflozin and saxagliptin. Dapagliflozin is a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, while saxagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. These components work together to improve glycemic control by regulating insulin levels and reducing glucose production in the liver.

What Are the Benefits and Uses of Qtern?

Qtern is primarily used for:

Managing Type 2 Diabetes: It helps control high blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, especially when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient.

Conditions Qtern Treats

  • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)

Secondary Uses of Qtern

  • May reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in diabetic patients (as per doctor's advice)
  • Helps with weight control in some individuals with diabetes
  • Improves overall glycemic control when other treatments are not effective alone

How Does Qtern Work?

Qtern combines two active ingredients, dapagliflozin and saxagliptin. Dapagliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor that helps the kidneys remove excess glucose from the body through urine. Saxagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that increases insulin release and reduces sugar production in the liver. Together, they improve blood sugar control without causing frequent low blood sugar episodes. Qtern does not significantly affect hormones or the central nervous system but acts mainly on the kidneys and pancreas.

Qtern Dosage

  • Typical Dosage: Qtern is usually taken once daily by mouth, with or without food. The common dose is Qtern 5mg/Qtern 10mg (5 mg saxagliptin and 10 mg dapagliflozin), as advised by your doctor.
  • Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to catch up.
  • Overdose: Taking more than the prescribed amount can lead to excessive urine output, dehydration, low blood sugar, or other complications. Seek immediate medical help in case of an overdose.

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Qtern Side Effects:

Qtern is a prescription medicine used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It combines two active ingredients.

Some common side effects of Qtern include:

Some serious side effects are:

If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Precautions and Warnings:

Before using Qtern, inform your doctor if you have any medical history, especially related to:

  • Kidney disease
  • Pancreatitis
  • Heart failure
  • Liver disease
  • Bladder cancer
  • Who Should Avoid Qtern: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 18, and people with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis should avoid using Qtern.
  • Use with Caution: People with kidney or liver problems, heart conditions, urinary tract infections, or known allergies to dapagliflozin or saxagliptin should consult their doctor before using Qtern.
  • Age Restrictions: Qtern is not recommended for children or adolescents below 18 years of age.
  • Alcohol or Food Interactions: Limit alcohol while taking Qtern, as it can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar. There are no major food restrictions.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

  • Drug Interactions: Qtern may interact with insulin, diuretics, blood pressure medications, and other antidiabetic drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects like hypoglycemia or dehydration.
  • Supplements and Herbal Products: Some herbal supplements or over-the-counter remedies may affect blood sugar levels or kidney function and should be used only after consulting a doctor.

How Should Qtern Be Stored?

  • Recommended Storage: Store Qtern at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat.
  • If not stored properly, improper storage may reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. Do not use tablets that are discoloured, broken, or past their expiration date.

Qtern vs Glyxambi:

Qtern Glyxambi
This medication combines dapagliflozin and saxagliptin. It is used to control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program. This medication combines two medications: empagliflozin and linagliptin. It is used to control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program.
It aids in the control of diabetes-related high blood sugar levels. This reduces the risk of serious diabetes complications and aids in the prevention of heart disease. Controlling high blood sugar levels can help prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, limb loss, and sexual function issues.
Works by increasing insulin release from the pancreas and decreasing hormones that raise blood sugar levels. This lowers fasting and post-meal sugar levels. Dapagliflozin works by excreting excess sugar (glucose) in the urine. Increases levels of natural substances known as incretins.

Reference:

Qtern: DPP-4 and SGLT2 inhibitor combination for type 2 diabetes
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Frequently Asked Questions

Qtern is used to control high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program.

Common side effects of Qtern include elevated levels of cholesterol or fat in the blood (dyslipidemia), urinary tract infection, headache, diarrhea, back pain, genital infection, and joint pain.

People who are allergic to it, have severe kidney problems, or are on dialysis should not take Qtern tablets. Additionally, it should be avoided if you are trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding.

No, Qtern does not cause weight gain on its own. However, maintaining a healthy weight is important for diabetes management.

No, if your kidney function is normal, Qtern is not harmful to your kidneys. Always inform your doctor if you have had kidney problems.

Yes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) can occur, especially if Qtern is used with other diabetes medications or insulin.

Yes, Qtern can cause dehydration in some people. It is important to drink plenty of water while taking it.

Yes, urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common side effect of Qtern. Watch for symptoms and contact your doctor if you experience any signs of a UTI.

Qtern helps manage blood sugar levels but does not cure diabetes. You may need to take it indefinitely under your doctor's guidance.

Yes, Qtern is safe for long-term use when prescribed by your doctor. It has shown no negative effects with extended use.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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