Steglujan is a combination medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It contains two active ingredients, ertugliflozin and sitagliptin. Ertugliflozin belongs to a class of drugs called sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, while sitagliptin belongs to a class of drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors. This article will discuss the uses, benefits, side effects, and warnings of Steglujan.
Uses
Steglujan is used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by lowering blood sugar levels by increasing the amount of glucose eliminated in the urine and increasing the production of insulin.
Benefits
Steglujan has been shown to be effective in controlling blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In a clinical study, Steglujan reduced A1C levels (average blood sugar levels over a 3-month period) by 1.6%, compared to 1.1% with ertugliflozin and 0.7% with sitagliptin alone. Steglujan also has the added benefit of causing weight loss, as it increases the amount of glucose excreted in the urine.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Steglujan can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Steglujan include:
– Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
– Genital yeast infections in women and men
– Increased risk of urinary tract infections
– Increased urination
– Diarrhea
– Nausea and vomiting
– Upper respiratory tract infections
If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately. In rare cases, Steglujan can cause serious side effects such as:
– Severe allergic reactions
– Kidney problems, including kidney failure
– Ketoacidosis (high levels of ketones in the blood)
– Serious urinary tract infections
– Bone fractures
– Low blood pressure (hypotension)
If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
Warnings
Before taking Steglujan, tell your doctor if you:
– Have kidney problems
– Have liver problems
– Are pregnant or breastfeeding
– Have a history of pancreatic problems
– Have a history of bladder cancer
– Have a history of heart problems
Steglujan can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when taken with other diabetes medications. You should monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and carry a source of glucose, such as glucose tablets or gels, with you at all times.
Steglujan can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections and genital yeast infections in both men and women. You should practice good hygiene and report any symptoms of these infections to your doctor immediately.
Steglujan can also cause dehydration, which can lead to kidney problems. You should drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol while taking Steglujan.
FAQs
Yes, Steglujan can be taken with other diabetes medications, but it can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
The safety of Steglujan during pregnancy is not known. Consult your doctor before taking Steglujan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Yes, Steglujan can cause weight loss as it increases the amount of glucose excreted in the urine.
Yes, Steglujan can cause dehydration, which can lead to kidney problems. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol while taking Steglujan.
In rare cases, Steglujan can cause serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, and bone fractures. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these serious side effects.
