Uses of Dapagliflozin+Sitagliptin

The combination of Dapagliflozin and Sitagliptin is used in adults to treat type II diabetes mellitus which is inadequately controlled on metformin monotherapy.

Therapeutic Category

Dapagliflozin: Antidiabetic agents (Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors)

Sitagliptin: Antidiabetic agents (Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor) 

How Dapagliflozin+Sitagliptin works

Dapagliflozin + Sitagliptin effectively controls blood sugar levels where Dapagliflozin inhibits SGLT2, increasing urinary glucose excretion and reducing blood levels of glucose and Sitagliptin inhibits DPP-4, increases glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), resulting in increased insulin synthesis and decreased glucagon release.  

Common side effects of Dapagliflozin+Sitagliptin

• nausea, vomiting
• flatulence, constipation
• swelling of hands or legs
• headache, dizziness
• upper respiratory infection
• stuffy or runny nose, sore throat
• back, arm or leg pain
• infection (thrush) of the penis or vagina (irritation, itching, unusual discharge or odor)
• passing urine more often
• rash

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience inflamed pancreas (signs include severe and persistent stomach pain that might reach through the back with or without nausea and vomiting)
• If you experience serious allergic reactions (signs include rash, hives, blisters on the skin or peeling skin and swelling of the lips, tongue, face and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience necrotising fasciitis of the perineum or fournier’s gangrene (signs include serious soft tissue infection of the genitals or the area between the genitals and the anus causing pain, tenderness, redness or swelling)
• If you experience diabetic ketoacidosis (signs include increased levels of ketone bodies in urine or blood, nausea or vomiting, stomach ache, excessive thirst, fast and deep breathing, confusion, unusual sleepiness or tiredness, a sweet smell to breathe, a sweet or metallic taste in the mouth or a different odor in urine or sweat, rapid weight loss)
• If you experience urinary tract infection (signs include fever, chills, burning sensation when passing urine, pain in the back or side and blood in urine)
• If you experience low blood sugar levels (signs include shaking, sweating, feeling very anxious, fast heartbeat, feeling hungry, headache, change in vision and a change in mood or feeling confused) 

Health Tips for Dapagliflozin+Sitagliptin

• Maintain a balanced diet that includes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and healthy fats. To assist maintain blood sugar levels, keep track of your carbohydrate intake. Try taking foods with a low glycemic index, as they have a slower impact on blood sugar levels
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is important for kidney function and general health
• Exercise on a regular basis can assist increase insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Aim for a combination of aerobic and strength training, as prescribed by your doctor
• Monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, as directed by your doctor. Keeping track of your levels will help you understand how your body reacts to the medicine and can help you make dietary decisions
• Evaluate your feet on a regular basis for any signs of blisters, sores, or cuts. Diabetes patients must take special care of their feet
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can affect blood sugar levels and interact with your medications
• Meditation and deep breathing exercises are all effective stress-reduction approaches. Stress management has been shown to improve blood sugar levels
• Take Dapagliflozin+Sitagliptin exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow the specified dosage and regimen. Do not change the dosage or discontinue the medicine without first consulting your doctor