Sitagliptin + Metformin
Information about Sitagliptin + Metformin
Sitagliptin + metformin uses
Sitagliptin + Metformin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is used in addition to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
How sitagliptin + metformin works
This is a combination of two antidiabetic medicines: Sitagliptin and Metformin. They help your pancreas produce more insulin, facilitate effective use of insulin by the body, and reduce excess sugar that your liver makes. Together, they provide better control of blood sugar.
Common side effects of sitagliptin + metformin
Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Stomach upset, Headache, Nasal congestion, Sore throat, Respiratory tract infection, Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar level) in combination with insulin or sulphonylurea
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Last updated on:
11 Nov 2019 | 02:01 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Sitagliptin + Metformin
- Take it with food to lower your chance of having an upset stomach.
- Chances of weight gain and low blood sugar are lesser as compared to other diabetes medicines.
- Inform your doctor about your diabetes treatment if you are due to have surgery under a general anaesthetic.
- Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any deep or rapid breathing, persistent nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain as Sitagliptin + Metformin may cause a rare but serious condition called lactic acidosis, which is an excess of lactic acid in the blood.
Frequently asked questions for Sitagliptin + Metformin
Sitagliptin + Metformin
Q. What is Sitagliptin + Metformin?
Sitagliptin + Metformin is a combination of two medicines: Sitagliptin and Metformin. This medicine is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It improves blood glucose levels in adults when taken along with proper diet and regular exercise. Metformin works by lowering the glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. Sitagliptin inhibits the enzyme DPP4 and increases the release of insulin from the pancreas. This combination is not indicated for the patients below 18 years of age.
Q. What are the possible side effects of Sitagliptin + Metformin?
The use of Sitagliptin + Metformin is associated with common side effects like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), altered taste, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache and upper respiratory tract infection. Its use can also lead to serious but rare side effect like lactic acidosis. On long-term use it can also lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Q. Are there any specific conditions in which Sitagliptin + Metformin should not to be taken?
The use of Sitagliptin + Metformin should be avoided in patients with known allergy to any of the components or excipients of this medicine. The use of this medicine should be avoided in patients with severe kidney impairment, liver impairment, congestive heart failure, lactic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Q. Is it safe to take alcohol while I am taking Sitagliptin + Metformin?
No, it is not safe to alcohol along with Sitagliptin + Metformin, as it can increase the chances of lactic acidosis.
Q. Can the use of Sitagliptin + Metformin lead to lactic acidosis?
Yes, the use of Sitagliptin + Metformin can lead to lactic acidosis. It is a medical emergency which is caused by the increased levels of lactic acid in the blood. It is also known as MALA (Metformin associated lactic acidosis). It is a rare side effect associated with the use of metformin and therefore, it is avoided in patients with underlying kidney disease, old age patients or who take large amounts of alcohol. Symptoms of lactic acidosis may include muscle pain or weakness, dizziness, tiredness, feeling of cold in arms and legs, difficulty in breathing, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain or slow heart rate. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Sitagliptin + Metformin and immediately consult your doctor.
Q. Can the use of Sitagliptin + Metformin lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Yes, the use of Sitagliptin + Metformin can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency on long-term use. It interferes with the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the stomach. If untreated, it may cause anemia and nerve problems as a result of which the patient can feel tingling sensation and numbness in hands and feet, weakness, urinary problems, change in mental status and difficulty in maintaining balance (ataxia). To avoid such problems, some researchers suggest an intake of vitamin B12 from outside sources at least once every year.
Q. What are the instructions for storage and disposal of Sitagliptin + Metformin?
Keep this medicine in the container or the pack it came in, tightly closed. Store it according to the instructions mentioned on the pack or label. Dispose of the unused medicine. Make sure it is not consumed by pets, children and other people.