Saxagliptin

Onglyza

Onglyza (saxagliptin) is a prescription medication for managing Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It comes from the DPP-4 inhibitor class, which increases insulin production and decreases glucagon release to regulate blood sugar levels. Available in 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets, it is typically taken once daily, with or without food. Some common side effects of onglyza (saxagliptin) 5 mg and 2.5 mg tablets are respiratory and urinary tract infections, headache, and joint pain. Serious risks include pancreatitis and heart failure. Dosage adjustments may be needed for renal impairment or specific drug interactions. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and follow safety guidelines.

Product Overview

Onglyza is a prescription medication used to manage Type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to a class of drugs known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, which increase levels of incretin hormones to enhance insulin production and decrease glucagon release, thereby regulating blood sugar levels. Onglyza is available in tablet form with strengths of 2.5 mg and 5 mg and is usually taken once daily, with or without food.

The medication is generally well-tolerated, but common side effects include upper respiratory and urinary tract infections, headache, and joint pain. Serious side effects may include pancreatitis, heart failure, hypoglycemia, severe joint pain, and bullous pemphigoid. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to saxagliptin and those with diabetic ketoacidosis.

Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment or when coadministered with strong CYP450 3A4/5 blockers. Onglyza should be used with caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis, heart disease, or gallstones. Stored this medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children and pets. Follow the prescribed dosage and safety guidelines.

What Are the Uses of Onglyza?

This medication is used for the following purposes:

• To treat type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Sometimes used in combination with other diabetic medications

What Are the Forms & Strengths of Onglyza?

Rx saxagliptin tablets (Onglyza) are available in the following strengths:

• 2.5mg
• 5mg

What Are the Recommended Onglyza Dosages for Different Patients?

Adult Dosage for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

• Take 2.5-5 mg by mouth once daily.

Dosage Adjustments

• The dosage might require reduction if taken alongside sulfonylurea or other insulin-secreting medicine.
• When taken with strong CYP450 3A4/5 inhibitors, please do not exceed 2.5 mg by mouth once daily.

Renal Impairment

• If creatinine clearance (CrCl) is 50 mL/min or higher: No dosage adjustment is

 needed.

• If CrCl is less than 50 mL/min: Do not exceed 2.5 mg by mouth once daily.
• If undergoing hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease (ESRD): Do not exceed 2.5 mg by mouth once daily, taken after dialysis.
• If undergoing peritoneal dialysis for ESRD: Not studied, so dosage is not specified.

Children Dosage for Type 2 Diabetes (Under 18 Years)

• The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been determined.

[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]

How to Use Onglyza?

When you plan to buy Onglyza online, you must know how to administer your medication properly. These steps include: 

• Take Onglyza precisely as prescribed by your healthcare provider. 
• Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor. Your doctor will determine the correct dose for you based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• You can take the medication with or without food unless your practitioner advises otherwise. 
• To help you remember, choose a convenient time to take the medicines daily.
• Swallow the tablet as a whole with a glass of water or as your doctor instructed.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Doing so may release the drug at once.
• If you are not able to swallow the medication, consult a medical professional. They will suggest alternate options that suits your body’s needs.
• Your doctor may regularly check your blood sugar levels and adjust your medication as needed to ensure optimal control of your diabetes.

[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]

How Does Onglyza Work?

Onglyza works by blocking an enzyme known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). This enzyme is responsible for breaking down incretin hormones, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) & glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which are released by the intestines following food consumption.

By inhibiting DPP-4, the medication increases the levels of these incretin hormones in the body. GLP-1 and GIP enhance the production and release of insulin from the pancreas when blood sugar levels are high. They also decrease the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. The combined effect of increased insulin and reduced glucagon leads to a reduction in blood sugar levels.

Important Safety Information for Using Onglyza

What Are the Side Effects of Onglyza?

Common Side Effects of Onglyza: This medication is used to treat type 2 diabetes and may lead to several side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Understanding these side effects can help manage them effectively if they occur. The following list contains the common side effects of Onglyza 2.5 mg tablets. These reactions are temporary and disappear within a few days or weeks without medical attention. However, if they persist for a long time or intensify, contact a medical professional. These side effects include: 

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Patients taking Onglyza may experience upper respiratory tract infections, which include conditions such as the common cold or sinusitis. These infections can manifest as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, and headache. These symptoms occur because the medication can affect the immune system, making it slightly easier for pathogens to invade and multiply within the respiratory system.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Onglyza users might also face urinary tract infections (UTIs). Symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation during urination, an urgent need to urinate more frequently than usual, pelvic pain in women, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. These infections occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra and begin to multiply in the bladder.
• Headache: Headaches are another common side effect of Onglyza. Patients may experience varying intensities of headaches, caused by changes in blood sugar levels as the body adjusts to the medication. Managing hydration and regular monitoring can help mitigate this side effect.
• Joint Pain: Joint pain is a less common but notable side effect associated with Onglyza. This discomfort may be due to the body’s inflammatory response to the drug or may indirectly result from changes in blood sugar levels that affect joint and muscle function. Patients experiencing severe joint pain should consult their healthcare provider for appropriate management strategies.

Serious Side Effects of Onglyza: Other than the above common reactions, the medication may have adverse effects in certain patients. These side effects usually occur when the patient has some underlying medical condition, or their body is not responding to the treatment. Overlooking them can become life-threatening. So, if you suspect unwanted signs or symptoms after taking Rx saxagliptin tablets (Onglyza), consult a medical expert. The serious side effects of this medication include:

• Pancreatitis: This condition refers to inflammation of the pancreas, which can become serious if not addressed promptly. Individuals taking Onglyza may experience a variety of symptoms indicative of pancreatitis. These symptoms include persistent abdominal pain or tenderness, noticeable swelling in the abdominal area, fever, an upset stomach, along with nausea or vomiting. Such symptoms require immediate medical evaluation to prevent complications.
• Heart Failure: Onglyza has been linked to heart failure, a condition characterized by the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively. Symptoms associated with heart failure may include persistent coughing, pronounced fatigue, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, and swelling in the abdomen, feet, legs, or ankles. Patients might also notice an abrupt increase in weight. These symptoms suggest a reduction in the heart’s efficacy in circulating blood, necessitating urgent medical care.
• Hypoglycemia: When combined with insulin or sulfonylureas such as glipizide (Glucotrol XL), Onglyza can cause hypoglycemia, a potentially dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include dizziness, confusion, excessive sweating, and headaches. These signs indicate an urgent need for correction of blood sugar levels to prevent more severe effects like fainting or seizures.
• Severe Joint Pain: Some patients report experiencing severe joint pain while taking Onglyza, which can significantly affect their daily activities. This pain may manifest as difficulty in moving or bending joints, severely limiting mobility and quality of life.
• Bullous Pemphigoid: This severe skin condition is another potential side effect of Onglyza. Bullous pemphigoid causes itchiness followed by a rash and large fluid-filled blisters. These symptoms can lead to significant discomfort and require medical intervention.

[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]

Are There Any Warnings for Onglyza?

Yes, this medication comes with several important warnings that patients and healthcare providers should be aware of before using Onglyza (saxagliptin) 5 mg or 2.5 mg tablets:

Heart Failure

• Risk factors: History of heart failure or kidney problems.
• Clinical trials have shown a connection between DPP-4 inhibitor treatment and heart failure. Symptoms to watch for include shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeat, fluid retention, weight gain, and chest pain. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any heart failure symptoms while taking Onglyza.

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

• Risk factors: Changes in diet or exercise, alcohol consumption, other diabetes medications, being over 65, and liver or kidney issues.
• Onglyza, alone or with other diabetes medications, can lead to low blood sugar, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms include shakiness, nervousness, fast heartbeat, sweating, chills, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, and hunger. If you’re worried about low blood sugar, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Joint Pain

• Onglyza contains a DPP-4 inhibitor, which can cause severe and disabling joint pain, occurring from one day to years after starting the medication. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience joint discomfort.

Pancreatitis

• Onglyza has been linked to a risk of developing pancreatitis. Patients should be alert for symptoms such as severe and persistent abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back, along with nausea and vomiting. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

What Are the Onglyza Precautions?

Like all medications, saxagliptin can cause serious complications if the medication is not taken properly. To avoid these risks, you must follow the below preventive measures before considering treatment with Onglyza 2.5 mg tablets:

• Do not take Onglyza if you have a history of serious allergic reactions from saxagliptin or you find yourself experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (seek medical treatment from your doctor).
• Before taking Onglyza, inform your doctor if you have:
  • Gallstones
  • Heart disease
  • A history of alcoholism
  • A history of pancreatitis
  • High triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood)
  • Kidney disease or are undergoing dialysis
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, follow your doctor’s advice on using Onglyza, as controlling diabetes is crucial during pregnancy to avoid complications for both the mother and the baby.
• Breastfeeding while using Onglyza may not be safe. Discuss any potential risks with your doctor.
• Onglyza is not approved for use in individuals under 18 years of age.
• If you are experiencing sudden and severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, chills, or fever, contact your healthcare practitioner immediately, as this may be a sign of pancreatitis.
• Be cautious of symptoms like chest pain, extreme weakness, sudden weight gain, difficulty breathing, and excessive swelling; consult a medical expert. These may be an early indicator of a heart problem.
• When undergoing surgery or any medical procedure, tell your practitioner or surgeon about the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

What Are the Onglyza Contraindications?

Onglyza is contraindicated in patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to the medication, including anaphylaxis, swelling (angioedema), or severe skin reactions.

What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Onglyza?

If you have missed a dose of Onglyza, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed medication dose and continue with your routine dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of Onglyza to make up for the missed dose.

[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]

What Happens If You Take Too Much Onglyza? 

Generally, doctors advise not to use Onglyza more than the prescribed dose. Doing so may result in low blood sugar. Its signs may include severe weakness, confusion, shaking, sweating, rapid heartbeat, difficulty speaking, nausea, vomiting, fast breathing, fainting, and seizures. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately.

[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away, or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]

How Do You Store Onglyza?

If you plan to buy Onglyza online, you should follow the following storage guidelines to ensure the medication’s safety and effectiveness.

• Store Onglyza at room temperature in a dark and moisture-free space.
• Do not store it in the bathroom.
• Store your medicines away or hide from children and pets.
• You can keep the tablets in a pill organizer or container and place safety locks on it to avoid poisoning your child. 
• Do not flush your medicine down the drain.
• Avoid using the medication once it reaches its expiration date. You can check the expired date on the product’s back.
• Properly dispose of expired or unneeded medication without damaging the environment. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance.

[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]

What Medications Interact with Onglyza?

Onglyza can interact with other drugs, foods, or diseases, potentially affecting how it works or increasing the risk of serious side effects. Here are some notable interactions:

• Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues: Using Onglyza with these medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Some of its examples include:
• Glipizide 
• Glyburide
• Cytochrome P450 3A4/5 (CYP3A4/5) Inhibitors: These medications can increase the concentration of saxagliptin in the blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. Its examples are: 
• Ketoconazole
• Itraconazole
• Ritonavir
• Clarithromycin 
• Cytochrome P450 3A4/5 (CYP3A4/5) Inducers: These medications can decrease the concentration of saxagliptin in the blood, potentially reducing its effectiveness. For example:
• Rifampin
• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine
• St. John’s Wort
• Thiazolidinediones: When medications like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone are used with Onglyza, there may be an increased risk of heart failure.
• Beta-Blockers: These medications can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia, making them harder to recognize. It includes:
• Metoprolol
• Propranolol
• Digoxin: Onglyza may slightly increase the levels of digoxin in the blood.

What Are the Other Onglyza Interactions?

Besides the above interactions, this medication also has some disease interactions, which are as follows:

Gallstones

Hypertriglyceridemia 

Pancreatitis

Angioedema

Heart failure

Kidney disease

[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Onglyza. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]

What Are the Onglyza Alternatives?

If you’re looking for alternatives to Onglyza, here are some other medications that are also used to treat type 2 diabetes:

• Januvia (sitagliptin)
• Tradjenta (linagliptin)
• Invokana (canagliflozin)
• Farxiga (dapagliflozin)
• Jardiance (empagliflozin)
• Ozempic (semaglutide)
• Bydureon BCise, Byetta (exenatide)
• Victoza (liraglutide)
• Trulicity (dulaglutide)
• Glucotrol XL (glipizide)
• Amaryl (glimepiride)
• Levemir (insulin detemir)
• Tresiba (insulin degludec)
• Basaglar, Lantus, Toujeo (insulin glargine)

[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.] 

Onglyza Cost & Coupons

Patients in the U.S. looking to lower their expenses on Onglyza insulin might consider buying from Canadian online pharmacies such as Polar Bear Meds, which provide more cost-effective alternatives. Polar Bear Meds offers substantial discounts on Onglyza, shipped straight from Canada to the U.S. New clients can receive a 10% discount on their initial purchase using the promo code ‘WELCOMEPB10.’ Furthermore, by participating in our referral program, U.S. customers can obtain additional coupons, further reducing the saxagliptin 5 mg tablet price and enhancing the accessibility of Onglyza.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Onglyza (saxagliptin) begin to take effect?

Onglyza starts to take effect as soon as you take a dose. However, it might take several weeks to notice a significant change in your blood sugar levels. This delay is because Onglyza works best when combined with a proper diet and exercise regimen. It takes time for your body to adapt to these lifestyle changes and for the medication to enhance insulin release effectively.

Can you consume alcohol while taking Onglyza (saxagliptin)?

Consult with your healthcare provider before consuming alcohol while on Onglyza (saxagliptin). Alcohol can impact blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes. To reduce the risk of low blood sugar, avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach or after physical activity.

Can I share Onglyza (Saxagliptin) Tablets with others?

It is crucial not to share this medication with others. Each prescription is tailored to an individual’s specific condition and needs. Sharing drugs can lead to serious health risks for the person who is not prescribed. It is essential to strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage and usage guidelines provided by your healthcare professional.

Is it safe to buy Onglyza online from Canada?

Yes, it is safe to buy this medication online from Canada. The FDA allows consumers to purchase medications from Canadian online pharmacies and import them into the U.S. under the same regulations that govern bringing drugs across the border. When considering the cost of Onglyza 5 mg tablet price, it’s essential to ensure you are using a reputable online pharmacy to guarantee the authenticity and quality of the medication. Always prioritize licensed and verified sources like Polar Bear meds to maintain your health and safety while purchasing.

Is Onglyza safe?

Yes, Onglyza is generally safe, but it requires careful management, especially for individuals with kidney issues. For those with kidney problems, doctors often prescribe a lower dosage of Onglyza due to the increased risk of heart failure associated with its use in such conditions. To ensure safety and monitor the health of the kidneys during treatment, your doctor will conduct regular kidney function tests. This proactive approach helps manage any potential risks and ensures the medication is used safely.

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