Saxagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor used by adults with type 2 diabetes to help control blood sugar levels. It is commonly available in the form of saxagliptin tablets. Available as a saxagliptin 5 mg tablet taken once daily, it works by boosting the bodys own insulin response and reducing glucose production in the liver.
Doctors often prescribe saxagliptin with other antidiabetic medications for better control. Patients should monitor their blood glucose levels regularly and inform their healthcare provider about all other medications, as some drugs can interact with saxagliptin's action.
What is Saxagliptin?
Saxagliptin, a medication used in adults with type 2 diabetes, helps improve blood sugar control when combined with diet and exercise. It works by increasing levels of incretins, natural substances that enhance insulin release after meals and reduce liver sugar production.
Saxagliptin Uses
Saxagliptin is prescribed to manage high blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients. Effective control can prevent complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve issues, limb loss, and sexual dysfunction. It also reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Conditions Saxagliptin Treats
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Secondary Uses of Saxagliptin
May be used in combination with metformin or sulfonylureas
Helpful in reducing post-meal blood sugar spikes
Sometimes used in patients with mild kidney issues under close monitoring
Saxagliptin is often prescribed in combination therapy, especially alongside saxagliptin and metformin , to improve insulin sensitivity and post-meal glucose control.
How Does Saxagliptin Work?
Saxagliptin is a DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitor. It works by increasing levels of incretin hormones in the body. These hormones help the pancreas release more insulin after meals and lower the amount of sugar made by the liver. Saxagliptin does not directly affect hormones like insulin or glucagon, but it helps the body use them better to control blood sugar levels.
Saxagliptin Dosage
Typical Dosage Instructions:The usual dose of saxagliptin is 5 mg once daily, with or without food. For individuals with kidney issues, the dose may be reduced to saxagliptin2.5 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for dosage.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed dose.
What Happens if an Overdose?
Taking too much saxagliptin can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if taken with other diabetes medications. Symptoms may include sweating, shakiness, dizziness, or confusion. Seek medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.
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Saxagliptin may cause side effects like upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and headaches due to its action on DPP-4 enzymes. In rare cases, it may affect immune response or increase the risk of pancreatitis and heart failure.
Inform your doctor of allergies to saxagliptin or other medications.
Disclose medical history, including kidney disease and heart failure.
Manage low or high blood sugar symptoms carefully, especially during periods of stress.
Avoid alcohol consumption, which can increase the risk of pancreatitis and low blood sugar.
Not recommended during pregnancy; consult your doctor if breastfeeding.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)
Saxagliptin may interact with other medicines used to treat diabetes, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, increasing the risk of low blood sugar. It can also interact with strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitors like ketoconazole, which may increase saxagliptin levels in the body. Always inform your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you are taking.
Combining saxagliptin with certain herbal products, like ginseng or fenugreek, may also affect blood sugar levels. It s important to monitor blood sugar more often when using such combinations.
How Should Saxagliptin Be Stored?
Recommended Storage Temperature:Store saxagliptin tablets at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep the medicine in its original packaging to protect it from moisture and light.
What Happens If Saxagliptin Is Not Stored Properly?
If saxagliptin is exposed to excessive heat, cold, or moisture, it may lose its effectiveness. Do not use tablets that are discoloured or damaged. Improper storage can reduce its ability to control blood sugar levels properly.
Saxagliptin vs Sitagliptin
Property
Saxagliptin
Sitagliptin
Drug Class
DPP-4 inhibitor
DPP-4 inhibitor
Primary Use
Controls blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes
Controls blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes
Mechanism of Action
Increases incretin levels, which inhibit glucagon release and increase insulin secretion
Enhances the body s own ability to lower blood sugar when it's high
Dosage
Usually 2.5 mg or 5 mg once daily
Typically 100 mg once daily
Common Side Effects
Upper respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, and headache
Saxagliptin is used in type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not sufficient.
Saxagliptin increases incretin levels, which help control blood sugar by increasing insulin release after meals and reducing liver sugar production.
Saxagliptin may or may not cause weight gain, depending on individual cases.
When combined with insulin, saxagliptin can lower the insulin dose needed and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.
No, saxagliptin does not cause weight loss. However, weight gain may occur when combined with other diabetes medications.
Yes, combining Saxagliptin with glipizide can help better control blood sugar levels as they work differently to lower blood sugar.
Yes, Saxagliptin can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications, alongside a healthy diet and exercise.
When used alone, saxagliptin does not usually cause hypoglycemia. However, when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas, it may lead to low blood sugar.
Saxagliptin starts to work within 4 to 5 days, but its full effects on lowering blood sugar may take some time.
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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