Saxagliptin+metformin
About Saxagliptin+metformin
Saxagliptin+metformin belongs to a group of medicines known as antidiabetics, used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. Saxagliptin+metformin is prescribed for the condition of type 2 diabetes when diet and exercise alone cannot control blood sugar levels. People with type 2 diabetes either do not produce enough insulin, or the insulin produced is unable to perform its function in the body (insulin resistance). Middle-aged or older individuals are most likely to suffer from type 2 diabetes, so it is also known as adult-onset diabetes.
Saxagliptin+metformin contains two medications, namely: Saxagliptin and Metformin. Saxagliptin work by blocking the action of DPP-4/dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (an enzyme which destroys the hormone ‘Incretin’). The enzyme ‘Incretins’ help produce more insulin only when required and reduce blood sugar produced by the liver when not needed. On the other hand, Metformin, a 'biguanide', lowers the liver's glucose production, delays glucose absorption from the intestines, and increases the body's response to insulin. Together, they prevent the blood glucose levels from rising to very high levels, thus keeping your diabetes under control.
You are suggested to take Saxagliptin+metformin for as long as your doctor has prescribed it. The most common side effect of Saxagliptin+metformin is hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels), upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis (nose and throat infection with common cold), and headache. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. If the side effects persist or worsen, consult a doctor.
Saxagliptin+metformin should not be stopped even if you feel better. If you stop taking Saxagliptin+metformin abruptly, it may increase your sugar levels which could further increase the risk of eyesight loss (retinopathy), kidney (nephropathy), and nerve damage (neuropathy). Saxagliptin+metformin should not be taken if you have severe kidney or liver disease. Please inform your doctor if you have any heart disease, are planning to get pregnant or are breastfeeding. Safety and efficacy of Saxagliptin+metformin in children under 18 years have not been established, so it should not be given to them. Patients taking digoxin (a heart medicine) with Saxagliptin+metformin should be closely monitored as severe drug interaction has been observed.
Uses of Saxagliptin+metformin
Medicinal Benefits
Saxagliptin+metformin contains two medications, namely: Saxagliptin and Metformin. Saxagliptin+metformin helps keep your blood sugar levels under check. Saxagliptin+metformin shows optimum effects when taken along with healthy lifestyle changes like weight loss, regular exercise, healthy diet, etc. Saxagliptin+metformin plays a vital role in controlling blood sugar levels and prevents serious complications of diabetes like eyesight loss (retinopathy), kidney (nephropathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), diabetic foot ulcer, and delayed wound healing.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Saxagliptin+metformin
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Palpitations
- Dry mouth and skin
- Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose level)
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Type 2 diabetes: It is a condition where the body is unable to make sufficient insulin, or the insulin that it makes doesn't work properly or is utilized by our body. This can cause high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. In some cases, there may be weight gain, while in rare cases, weight loss may be observed. The complication of type 2 diabetes includes neuropathy (nerve problems), nephropathy (kidney problems), retinopathy (damaged retina of eyes or blindness), loss of limbs, sexual dysfunction, and increased chance of heart attack or stroke.
FAQs
Yes, Saxagliptin+metformin is known to cause stomach upset, indigestion, nausea, and diarrhoea. To avoid these side effects, please take Saxagliptin+metformin with a meal. Also, Saxagliptin+metformin should be taken at evenly spaced intervals to avoid any unpleasant side effects and for best results.
Saxagliptin+metformin has been reported to increase blood cholesterol levels in a normal patient and thus not recommended in patients with hyperlipidemia.
The patient is advised to take the missed dose as soon as possible; otherwise, jump to the next dose. A patient should never take a double dose to compensate for the missed dose. It may aggravate harmful side effects.
According to American Diabetes Association, most of the studies carried out on Saxagliptin+metformin and its ability to cause cancer resulted in a conclusion that Saxagliptin+metformin is not associated with any form of cancer & hence is safe to use.
A patient who accidentally takes an overdose of Saxagliptin+metformin may experience collapse, seizure attack, and troubled breathing. In such a case, without any delay, emergency health services must be contacted, and medical help should be sought.
