Onglyza

The oral antidiabetes medication Onglyza is prescribed alongside a balanced diet and regular physical activity to help manage blood glucose levels in adult patients with Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. The generic name of Onglyza is saxagliptin. It’s often used in combination with other drugs, such as:

• Metformin
• Sulfonylurea
• Metformin and sulfonylurea
• Insulin

How does Onglyza work?

Onglyza belongs to a class of drugs known as diphenyltryptamine-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, which are commonly used to treat diabetes. These medications help to lower blood sugar levels both after meals and in between meals and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the body. As with all DPP-4 inhibitors, Onglyza functions by delaying the breakdown of digestive hormones, thereby increasing their presence in the system. This increase leads to beneficial effects, including boosting insulin production in response to meals, decreasing glucose production from the liver, slowing stomach emptying, reducing appetite, and improving the function of beta cells, which store and produce insulin.

Onglyza Dosage

Always adhere to the instructions provided by your doctor. The typical recommended dose for adults is 5 mg once daily, with or without food. If your kidneys aren’t functioning optimally, you may require a lower dose. When Onglyza is taken alongside insulin or insulin secretagogues (like sulfonylureas), a reduced dose may be necessary to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Side Effects, Warnings, and Precautions of Onglyza

Onglyza, like all medications, may cause side effects and comes with several warnings and precautions. Common side effects include headache, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and upper respiratory tract infection. In rare instances, Onglyza may cause severe side effects, such as pancreatitis, allergic reactions, or heart failure.

Patients with a history of pancreatitis or kidney disease should use Onglyza cautiously. It’s important to be aware that Onglyza can interact with other medications, so you must inform your doctor about all the drugs you are currently taking. Before beginning Onglyza, let your doctor know about any medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are on. If you encounter any severe or unusual side effects while taking Onglyza, contact your doctor immediately. Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any concerning side effects or changes in your symptoms.