Has your doctor prescribed a new medication for Type 2 Diabetes? Is it called Ertugliflozin? You may have received it under the brand name Steglatro. If so, this article will be very important to you. Let's talk about this medication in a simple and friendly way, how it works in our body, what to be careful about while taking it, and the possible side effects.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this medicine called Ertugliflozin helps your kidneys to remove excess sugar (glucose) from your blood through your urine. Imagine, when our blood sugar levels increase, this medicine acts like a filter and removes that excess sugar through our urine. This way, it helps a lot in controlling your blood sugar levels .
But remember this. This medicine alone is not enough. Along with this, it is essential to follow your diet and exercise regimen . Only when these three things come together can you get the best results.
Things to tell your doctor before starting medication
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, it is very important to talk openly with your doctor about your health history. Especially if you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor about them.
- If you have Type 1 Diabetes (this medicine is only given for Type 2 Diabetes)
- If you have previously developed a serious condition called Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) .
- If you have kidney disease or liver disease.
- If you are receiving dialysis (hemodialysis) treatment.
- If you are constantly dehydrated or follow a low-salt diet.
- If you have had pancreatic problems (pancreatitis) before.
- If you frequently get urinary tract infections or have difficulty urinating.
- If you are a woman, you often get vaginal yeast infections.
- If you are male, uncircumcised, or have a genital yeast infection.
- If you have leg injuries, nerve damage, or circulation problems.
- If you are a regular drinker.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- If you have an allergic reaction to Ertugliflozin or any other medicine or food.
- If you are going to have surgery in the future.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This is very simple. But the most important thing is to follow exactly what the doctor says.
- Swallow this pill whole with a glass of water .
- It is generally recommended to take this in the morning . Get into the habit of taking it at the same time every day.
- You can take it before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, take it with a meal .
- Never take more than the dosage prescribed by your doctor.
- Also, do not stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is very close to your next dose (e.g., it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to consider while taking the medicine
When using this medicine, it's best to be a little more careful about your health.
1. Blood tests: Your doctor will likely order a blood test called HbA1C every 3 to 6 months to check how well your blood sugar is being controlled. This will give you an idea of your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
2. Checking your blood sugar levels: Learn how to check your blood sugar levels at home. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (Hyperglycemia).
3. If you have low blood sugar: Always keep something nearby, such as a sugar cube, toffee, or glucose tablet , in case you experience symptoms of low blood sugar (dizziness, sweating, shaking).
4. Serious condition - DKA: Although rare, this medicine can cause diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious condition in which the blood becomes too acidic. If you experience symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, extreme tiredness, or difficulty breathing , stop taking the medicine immediately and call your doctor.
5. Other things: Don't skip meals. Consult your doctor about drinking alcohol. It's safer to wear a card or bracelet with details about your medical condition and medications.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, Ertugliflozin can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are common. The table below provides a clearer picture of these.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Excessive thirst, dry mouth, extreme fatigue, fruity breath odor, difficulty breathing, stomach ache, nausea, vomiting. |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Burning during urination, frequent urination, bloody or cloudy urine, back or pelvic pain. |
| Genital yeast infections | Redness, swelling, pain or itching, foul odor, thick, watery discharge. |
| Dehydration | Excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, headache, dark yellow or brown urine. |
| Infections in the leg or foot | New pain, skin discoloration, wounds, ulcers, infection. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- Ertugliflozin is a medicine for type 2 diabetes. Take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the right dose, and at the right time.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and other medications you are taking.
- Be aware of symptoms of DKA, urinary tract infections, genital infections, and low blood sugar. If you notice any of these, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
- Avoid stopping the medication or changing the dosage without medical advice. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න