What It Is Used For
Sitagliptin lowers blood sugar in type 2 diabetes by helping the body release insulin after meals. It is used with diet and exercise, alone or with metformin or other diabetes medicines.
How to Take It
Usually 100 mg once a day, with or without food. People with kidney disease need a lower dose (50 mg or 25 mg), as decided by the doctor.
Who Should Not Take It
Do not take it if you are allergic to sitagliptin, have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Side Effects
Usually mild: stuffy nose, sore throat, headache. Rare but serious: inflammation of the pancreas (severe stomach pain spreading to the back, with vomiting), severe joint pain, skin blisters and allergic reactions. Stop it and see a doctor if these happen.
Precautions
Kidney function should be checked. Low blood sugar is more likely if you also take insulin or a sulfonylurea.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Not recommended. Ask your doctor.
Interactions
With insulin or sulfonylureas, their dose may need lowering. It can slightly raise digoxin levels.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, out of the reach of children.