Onglyza (Saxagliptin Hydrochloride)

ONGLYZA (SAXAGLIPTIN HYDROCHLORIDE)

Overview

Onglyza (Saxagliptin Hydrochloride) is an oral prescription drug which is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Onglyza is the brand name of the medicine, Whereas Saxagliptin is the generic name of the drug. Its use can be individualistic, or it could be a part of group therapy.

How It Works

Saxagliptin pertains to a category of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors. It is also known as (DPP-4) inhibitors. They help to increase the incretins level. It is a natural substance which increases the production of insulin in the body. This insulin helps to control the blood sugar level. It works especially after a meal. It also controls the amount of glucose produced by the liver. Onglyza medicine helps to remove excess sugar from the body. It is done by increasing the procurement of insulin in people having type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed along with diet and exercise.

Dosage

• Not recommended for children under 18 years.
• Adult Dosage:
• Onglyza dosage should be 2.5 mg or 5 mg once daily.
• The dosage depends on tolerability and sugar levels.
• Dosage for patients with renal impairment:
• Mild renal impairment (eGFR more than or equal to 45 ml: No changes in dosage (normal dosage)
• Medium or serious renal impairment (eGFR less than 45 ml once daily.
• Maximum dosage for patients with renal impairment is 2.5 mg once daily.
• Period assessment of renal function is necessary.
• Dosage when strong CYP3A4/5 suppressants are used:
• 2.5 mg once daily.

Common Side Effects

• Serious Side Effects:
• Allergic reaction: Symptoms are, for instance:

1. Hives
2. Redness and itching of the skin
3. Swelling of face, mouth, lips, tongue and throat
4. Trouble breathing

• Pancreatitis: Symptoms are, for instance:

1. Nausea and Vomiting
2. Loss of appetite
3. Fast Heartbeat
4. Severe pain in stomach travelling to back

• Severe Joint Pain
• Pain while urinating
• Heart Problems: Symptoms are, for instance:

1. Feeling weak and tired
2. Weight gain
3. Breathlessness

• Hypoglycemia: Symptoms are, for instance:

1. Dizziness
2. Sweating
3. Blurred vision
4. Fast heartbeat

• Bulbous pemphigoid: Symptoms are, for instance:

1. Blisters
2. Redness of skin

• Common Side Effects:
• Headache
• Cold
• Sore Throat
• Runny Nose

These are some side effects of Onglyza. If you notice any symptoms, call for immediate medical help.

How to Take This Medication

• Please take it as and when prescribed by the doctor.
• Follow the instructions and directions carefully.
• Take it with or without food.
• Swallow it with water.
• Don’t chew, crush or break it.
• If you miss a dose, don’t take 2 doses at once.
• If you overdose, get immediate medical help.
• Take this medication with diet and exercise.

Warnings and Precautions

• Don’t take Onglyza (Saxagliptin Hydrochloride) if you have/are, for instance:
• Allergic reaction
• Diabetic Ketoacidosis
• Severe Kidney Problems
• Inform your doctor if you have/are, for instance:
• Kidney problems
• Heart problems
• Pancreatitis
• High Triglycerides
• Gallstones
• On dialysis
• Going to have a surgery
• X-ray or CT scan
• Pregnant or planning to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Taking other medications
• Avoid drinking alcohol
• Not recommended for children below 18 years.