Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Established Use

Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is indicated, together with diet and exercise, to improve blood sugar (glycemic) control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride may be used:

• As initial combination therapy in adults who need both a DPP-4 inhibitor and metformin to reach their blood sugar targets.
• As add-on therapy in adults whose type 2 diabetes is not adequately controlled on metformin alone, on sitagliptin alone, or on metformin combined with a sulfonylurea or insulin, when treatment with both components is appropriate.

Limitations of Use

• Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is not indicated for type 1 diabetes mellitus or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis, and Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is not a substitute for diet and exercise, which should be continued throughout treatment.

The dose of Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is individualized based on a patient's current diabetes treatment, blood sugar control, and kidney function. Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is generally taken by mouth with meals, and the tablets should never be split, crushed, or chewed. The information below outlines typical dosing patterns; the exact dose and schedule should always be determined and adjusted by a qualified healthcare professional and is not the same for every patient.

Common Side Effects

Diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, indigestion, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection are commonly reported. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur, particularly when Sitagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride is combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea.

Serious Side Effects - Seek Medical Attention

• Signs of lactic acidosis - unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual sleepiness, abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting, feeling cold, dizziness, or a slow or irregular heartbeat (see Precautions and Warnings).
• Signs of acute pancreatitis - severe, persistent abdominal pain, sometimes spreading to the back, with or without vomiting.
• Serious allergic reactions - swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or severe skin reactions such as blistering (Stevens-Johnson syndrome or bullous pemphigoid).
• Signs of heart failure - unusual shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, or swelling in the ankles or legs.
• Reduced kidney function.
• Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency with long-term use - unusual tiredness, weakness, or tingling in the hands or feet.
• Severe or persistent joint pain.