Has your doctor prescribed you a combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin to control your Type 2 Diabetes? Then this article is very important for you. Simply put, this medicine works by lowering your blood sugar (glucose) levels. However, it is not enough to just take this medicine; it is also essential to control your diet and exercise. Let’s talk about this medicine in more detail.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before giving you this medicine. If you have any of the conditions below, you should definitely tell your doctor about it.
| Your situation | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | It is imperative to talk to your doctor about this, as this medication may not be appropriate in these cases. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have poor kidney or liver function, the way this medicine affects the body may change. |
| If you have heart disease, artery disease, or high cholesterol | People with a history of heart disease need special care. |
| If you drink alcohol frequently | This medication can cause dangerous side effects when taken with alcohol. |
| If you are dehydrated, have a low-salt diet, or have reduced food intake due to illness | In such cases, the doctor should be aware because the body's fluid balance changes. |
| If you have previously developed diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | It is important to be aware of this medication as it may increase the risk of DKA. |
| If you have frequent urinary tract infections or yeast infections in the genital area | This medicine can sometimes increase the risk of such infections. |
| If you have an allergy to Ertugliflozin, Metformin or any other medicine or food | Early notification of allergies can help prevent serious reactions. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
The method of using this medicine is very simple.
- Swallow the pill with a glass of water.
- It is best to take the medicine with a meal .
- Take your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the time prescribed. Don't skip doses or take more than the prescribed amount.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without medical advice. Doing so may cause your blood sugar levels to rise suddenly.
Most importantly: If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine is for you only. The doctor has prescribed it for your condition. Therefore, never give it to anyone else.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Never take two pills at once, even if you missed one.
What other medications may interact with this medicine?
It is very important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins and traditional medicines, as some medications can interact with this.
| Drug Interactions | |
|---|---|
| Medicines that should not be taken with this medicine | |
| Some types of contrast and a drug called Dofetilide are injected into the body before tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. | |
| Other medications that may interact with this medicine (inform the doctor) | |
| Alcohol | Some medications for blood pressure |
| Diuretics | Types of steroids (Prednisone, Cortisone) |
| Thyroid hormone medication | Some antivirals given for HIV or Hepatitis |
| Drugs like Isoniazid, Cimetidine, Digoxin, Ranolazine | Other medications such as Topiramate, Zonisamide |
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- HbA1C test: Talk to your doctor about this blood test (HbA1C) that is done every 2-3 months to see how well your diabetes is controlled.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels: Learn how to check your blood sugar levels at home. Be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. Always keep a small amount of sugar, a piece of candy, or a glucose tablet nearby in case your blood sugar drops.
- Serious side effects: This medicine may rarely cause a serious condition called lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of acid in the blood. If you experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, extreme tiredness, or difficulty breathing , stop taking the medicine immediately and call your doctor.
- Surgeries and tests: If you are going to have surgery, an MRI, or a CT scan, tell the medical team in advance that you are taking this medicine. You may need to stop taking the medicine for a few days.
- Vitamin B12: Long-term use of this medication may cause low levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid. Therefore, talk to your doctor about eating a balanced diet and taking vitamin supplements if necessary.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Dry mouth, excessive thirst, frequent urination, fruity breath odor, difficulty breathing, stomach ache, nausea, vomiting. |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Burning when urinating, frequent urination, cloudy or bloody urine, back or pelvic pain. |
| Yeast infections in the genital area | Redness, swelling, pain, itching, foul odor, thick discharge. |
| Infections in the leg or foot | New pain, sores, skin discoloration, or infection. |
| Dehydration | Excessive thirst, dry mouth, fainting, dark yellow or brown urine. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Gas | Diarrhea |
| Nausea | Metallic taste in the mouth |
| Headache | |
Take-Home Message
- Always take this medicine with food as directed by your doctor.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- If you experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, extreme fatigue, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- Never stop taking medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- Always keep something sugary (like a candy bar) nearby to eat immediately if your blood sugar level drops.
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