Onglyza is prescribed in addition to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in individuals with type II diabetes mellitus.
Saxagliptin belongs to a class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. DPP-4 is a naturally occurring enzyme that is responsible for the rapid breakdown of a hormone called GLP-1. GLP-1 functions to maintain blood glucose levels by increasing insulin production in the pancreas, decreasing the release of glucagon (a hormone which controls the release of glucose from the liver after meals), promoting a feeling of fullness after eating a meal and slowing the emptying of the stomach’s contents to allow more time for food absorption. Blocking the actions of DPP-4 in the body with a DPP-4 inhibitor such as Saxagliptin increases levels of GLP-1, which decreases blood glucose.
Dosage Form
Onglyza comes in tablet form containing 5mg of saxagliptin.
Before taking Onglyza
Talk to your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins and herbal supplements
Talk to your doctor about any medical conditions that you have or have had
Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
Proper Use of Onglyza
Take Onglyza orally once daily exactly as directed by your doctor
Onglyza can be taken with or without food
Your healthcare provider may prescribe Onglyza along with other medicines that lower blood sugar
If you miss a dose of Onglyza, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Just take the next dose at your regular time. Do not take two doses at the same time unless your healthcare provider tells you to do so. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions about a missed dose.
Ingredients
Active ingredient: saxagliptin
Inactive ingredients: lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate. In addition, the film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, titanium dioxide, talc, and iron oxides.
Side effects
Certain side effects may be associated with Onglyza. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:
upper respiratory tract infection
urinary tract infection
headache
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)- may become worse in people who already take another medication to treat diabetes, such as sulfonylureas. Tell your healthcare provider if you take other diabetes medicines. If you have symptoms of low blood sugar, you should check your blood sugar and treat if low, then call your healthcare provider
Swelling or fluid retention in your hands, feet, or ankles (peripheral edema)- may become worse in people who also take a thiazolidinedione to treat diabetes. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Onglyza and talk to your doctor right away.
Allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions, such as rash, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, and throat. If you have these symptoms, stop taking Onglyza and call your healthcare provider right away.
