Diabetes is a very common disease among us in Sri Lanka. So, your doctor has prescribed you medicine to control your diabetes. If you are one of those who uses the medicine called Sitagliptin, this article will be very important for you. Let's see about this medicine, how it works, and what are the things to be careful about while using it.
What kind of medicine is Sitagliptin?
Simply put, Sitagliptin is a medication that is used to treat Type 2 Diabetes . It works in a very interesting way in our body. It mainly increases the level of insulin in your body and reduces the amount of glucose in your blood. It also reduces the amount of sugar that is added to the blood by the liver.
The most important thing is that this medicine alone is not enough. It is only with a good diet and daily exercise that you can get the maximum results from this medicine.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before you start taking Sitagliptin, there are a few things you should definitely tell your doctor. Don't hide these, because they are very important for your safety.
- If you have diabetic ketoacidosis.
- If you have kidney disease: This is very important because the dosage of this medicine may need to be adjusted depending on your kidney function.
- If you have previously had pancreatitis.
- If you have ever had a swelling of your tongue, face, or lips, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, or a change in your voice after taking a certain medicine: This means you have had a severe allergic reaction.
- If you have Type 1 diabetes: This medicine is not suitable for you.
- If you have allergies to sitagliptin or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This medicine is very easy to use. Swallow this pill with a glass of water. You can take it before or after meals. Take it exactly as your doctor has prescribed.
A few important things:
- Do not break, crush, or chew the medicine. Swallow the tablet whole.
- Try to take your medicine at the same time every day. That way you won't forget.
- Don't stop taking the medicine until the doctor tells you to.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else.
What if you miss your medication?
If you suddenly 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 scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you suddenly think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU). Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
See your doctor on the scheduled dates to make sure your treatment is going well.
- HbA1c test: Your doctor will order a blood test called HbA1c (A1C) . This measures how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the past 2-3 months. You will need to have this test every 3 to 6 months.
- Blood sugar monitoring: It is important to learn how to monitor your blood sugar at home. Also, be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and what to do if they occur.
- If your blood sugar drops: Always keep something like sugar, toffee, or glucose tablets nearby to use if your blood sugar drops. But remember, if your blood sugar drops too low and you start having seizures or lose consciousness, don't put anything in your mouth at that time. You could choke. In such a case, you should seek medical advice immediately.
- Other things: If you get sick, exercise more than usual, ask your doctor if you need to change the dosage of your medication. Don't skip meals. Also talk to your doctor about drinking alcohol.
- Medical ID: It's a good idea to wear a card or bracelet that states that you have diabetes and the medications you take.
Possible side effects and problems with this medicine
Like any medicine, Sitagliptin can cause side effects in some people. It can also interact with some other medicines. Let's take a look at that.
| Drugs/substances that may cause conflicts | Things to watch out for |
|---|---|
| Insulin | Taking these two together can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your doctor will adjust the dosage. |
| Sulfonylureas (e.g. Glimepiride, Glibenclamide) | There is an increased risk of low blood sugar when taken with Sitagliptin. |
| Digoxin (a medicine for heart disease) | Sitagliptin may slightly change the effects of Digoxin. Tell your doctor about this. |
| Alcohol | Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels. Consult your doctor about this. |
| Note: This list is not complete. Tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking. | |
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Pancreatitis | Severe stomach pain spreading to the back, pain that worsens after eating, fever, nausea, vomiting. |
| Heart failure | Difficulty breathing, swelling of ankles/feet/hands, sudden weight gain, feeling unusually tired. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of ankles/hands/feet. |
| Skin reactions | Redness, blistering, peeling of the skin (even inside the mouth). |
| Severe joint pain | Severe pain in the joints. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Headache |
| Cold-like symptoms | Runny nose, stuffy nose. |
| Sore throat | Sore throat |
How to store the medicine?
- Keep away from children.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius).
- Throw away expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Sitagliptin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Diet and exercise are essential for best results.
- Take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, at the prescribed time. Do not break, crush, or chew the medicine.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take and any other illnesses you have.
- Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Keep some sugar or a candy bar nearby for emergencies.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe stomach pain, difficulty breathing, skin blisters, or severe allergic symptoms.
- If you have any questions about this medication, don't be afraid to discuss it with your doctor.
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