Frequently asked questions for Saxagliptin + Metformin
Saxagliptin + Metformin
Q. What should I tell my doctor before taking Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Before taking Saxagliptin+Metformin, inform your doctor if you have any problems with your kidneys, liver, bladder, heart or pancreas. Tell your doctor if you ever had or have any risk factors for ketoacidosis (such as type 1 diabetes, changes in diet, reduced appetite or if you are going to have a surgery). Let your doctor know about all the other medicines or supplements you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Consult your doctor before taking Saxagliptin+Metformin if you are planning to conceive, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid any harmful effects on the baby.Q. Who should not take Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Saxagliptin+Metformin is not recommended for people who are allergic to it, have severe kidney problems or are on dialysis. Additionally, avoid taking Saxagliptin+Metformin if you are trying to get pregnant, already pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid any harmful effects on the baby.Q. Does Saxagliptin+Metformin cause weight gain?
No, Saxagliptin+Metformin is not known to cause weight gain by itself. However, keeping a healthy weight is an important part of managing diabetes. Consult your doctor if you experience weight gain while taking Saxagliptin+Metformin.Q. Is Saxagliptin+Metformin bad for your kidneys?
No, Saxagliptin+Metformin is not bad for your kidneys if your kidney function is normal. However, it is important to inform your doctor if you have, or ever had, any kidney problems. Conditions like kidney problems may require dose modification.Q. Do I still have to manage my diet and exercise while on Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Yes, it is important to manage your diet and exercise while taking Saxagliptin+Metformin. In addition to medicine, making healthy food choices and being physically active are also important to effectively manage blood sugar levels. You may consult a dietitian and follow a diet chart that suits you best. A well-balanced diet is one part of a healthy lifestyle for people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, thirty minutes of exercise such as a brisk walk is recommended.Q. Can my blood sugar levels go too low on Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Yes, it is possible that your blood sugar levels may become very low (hypoglycemia). The chances are higher if you are on any other antidiabetic medicine or insulin along with Saxagliptin+Metformin. Additionally, blood sugar levels can take a huge dip if you skip meals, exercise more than usual, or if you have taken an overdose of Saxagliptin+Metformin. If you experience a sudden fall in your sugar levels, inform your doctor. The doctor may suggest dose modification to prevent your blood sugar levels from decreasing significantly (hypoglycemia). Follow your doctor’s advice and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.Q. What is the most important information I should know about Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Saxagliptin+Metformin is safe to use if taken in the dose and duration prescribed by the doctor. However, in rare cases, some serious side effects can also be observed. In some people, Saxagliptin+Metformin may cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) which could be severe and can even lead to death. If you experience severe and persistent pain in your stomach area (abdomen), stop the medication and immediately contact your doctor. Saxagliptin+Metformin can also cause heart failure. This means the heart is not able to pump blood well enough, therefore, inform your doctor if you have or ever had heart problems before you start taking Saxagliptin+Metformin. In addition to that, problems related to kidneys should also be discussed with the doctor.Q. What will happen if I accidentally take more than the prescribed dose of Saxagliptin+Metformin?
If you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose of Saxagliptin+Metformin, your blood sugar levels may become too low (hypoglycemia). This hypoglycemia may be mild or severe. Monitor your blood sugar levels more frequently for the next 24 hours. Mild episodes of hypoglycemia (with symptoms like anxiety, sweating, weakness, tremors, fast heartbeat) can usually be corrected with the help of sugary foods such as sugar or glucose candy, fruit juice and glucose/glucon-D. However, it is important to consult your doctor to decide the further course of treatment. More severe episodes of hypoglycemia may even lead to a seizure (fit) or unconsciousness. This can be life-threatening and immediate medical help may be required.Q. How long do I need to take Saxagliptin+Metformin?
Saxagliptin+Metformin only helps to manage your blood sugar levels but does not cure your diabetes. Keep taking Saxagliptin+Metformin as long as your doctor recommends it. You may have to take it lifelong. It is important to keep your blood sugar levels under control as any fluctuations in your blood sugar levels may cause serious problems. Therefore, do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.Q. What if I miss a dose of Saxagliptin+Metformin?
If you miss a dose and it is less than 12 hours since the time of your dose, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is more than 12 hours since your missed dose, take Saxagliptin+Metformin as per the regular schedule and skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the forgotten dose as it increases the risk of developing side effects.Q. Is Saxagliptin+Metformin safe to be taken for a long term?
Yes, it is safe to take Saxagliptin+Metformin for a long time. Its long-term use, which can continue for months, years or even lifelong, has not shown any harmful effects. Keep taking Saxagliptin+Metformin as long as your doctor recommends it. Remember, Saxagliptin+Metformin only helps to keep your blood sugar levels under control but does not cure your diabetes.