Saxagliptin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Saxagliptin?

Saxagliptin is a medication used to treat type-2 diabetes. It belongs to a group of DDP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors. They are a class of drugs used to treat diabetes. 

Diabetes leads to an increase in blood sugar levels. Left unmonitored can cause various complexities in different organs of our body. 

These (DDP-4)s increase insulin in our bodies. This medication works at an optimum level when combined with proper diet and exercise. Saxagliptin is a generic name for onglyza. Januvia also belongs to this group and is the first drug to be approved in this class.

What are the uses of Saxagliptin?

Saxagliptin is primarily used to treat type-2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels. An increase in blood sugar levels leads to various complexities in different organs of our body. This medication helps prevent long-term effects of diabetes such as blindness, loss of limbs, kidney damage, loss of normal sexual function, and nerve problems. The incidence of stroke and heart attack can also be controlled by proper monitoring of diabetes. Saxagliptin increases the level of natural substances called incretin, which increases insulin’s release into the blood and controls blood sugar, especially after consuming food. It also regulates the amount of sugar produced by the liver.

What are the side effects of Saxagliptin?

You must take this medication as prescribed by the physician in its recommended dosage. The primary common side effect is diarrhea and stomach pain. By itself, Saxagliptin does not cause low blood pressure. Sometimes, its interaction with other drugs that a patient consumes may lead to hypoglycemia (decreased sugar level).

Hypoglycemia symptoms include:

• Fast heartbeat.
• Hunger.
• Dizziness.
• Sudden sweating.
• Shaking or tingling of hands/feet.   
• Dry mouth.

Hyperglycemia or increased heartbeat can occur too, and symptoms include:

• Confusion.
• Thirst.
• Excessive urination.
• Drowsiness.
• Fruity breath odor.
• Rapid breathing.

Watch out for the following severe symptoms: 

• Joint pain.
• Signs of heart failure (unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, swelling of feet or ankles).
• Signs of disease of the pancreas (severe abdominal pain that spreads to the back, uncontrolled nausea/vomiting).
• Allergic reactions rarely occur, but any symptoms of serious allergic reactions such as severe dizziness, rash, trouble breathing, itching, rashes, and swelling of mouth, face, tongue, or throat.

In case of severe side effects experienced, consult Yashoda Hospitals. 

Dosages

Saxagliptin, taken orally, is usually taken once a day. The oral form of medicine is available as 2.5 mg and 5 mg. The dosage depends on the type of disease or condition being treated. Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully and take Saxagliptin precisely as directed. Do not take more or less or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may start with a low dose and gradually increase. Subsequently, they may then decrease the quantity once your condition is under control.

Contact our medical experts at Yashoda Hospitals immediately for more information on the dosages and precautions necessary for Saxagliptin. 

Precautions

Some of the precautions to take before or after being prescribed Saxagliptin include:

• If you have to undergo surgery, inform the doctor that you are taking Saxagliptin.
• If you have any allergies, the doctor has to be informed.
• Medical history such as kidney disease, stone in the gallbladder, high levels of triglycerides, and pancreatitis must be informed to the doctor.
• You may experience dizziness, blurred vision, or drowsiness (because of low or high blood pressure).
• Keep away from alcohol during this medication, as it might lead to low blood pressure.