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Home > Drug Category > Diabetic Medications and Products > Steglatro and Equivalent

Steglatro Information

Steglatro (Ertugliflozin) is a prescription medication used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is typically used in conjunction with dietary and lifestyle modifications to improve blood sugar control. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production, creating a toxic environment that can damage blood vessels, nerves, and body organs over time.

Ertugliflozin falls under the drug class known as Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. It works directly on the kidneys, specifically inhibiting the SGLT2 proteins that are responsible for reabsorbing filtered glucose back into the bloodstream; consequently, this mechanism forces the body to expel excess sugar through urine. Steglatro facilitates the regular removal of glucose that the body cannot effectively metabolize. This action brings blood sugar levels down to a safer range, thereby reducing the immediate toxicity of high blood sugar and potentially reducing the long-term complications of diabetes such as kidney failure or cardiovascular disease.

Like other medications in its drug class, ertugliflozin is also particularly useful for individuals with type 2 diabetes who also have an established cardiovascular disease. This is because it helps excrete excess salt, fluid, and sugar through the urine, thereby reducing the heart's workload and alleviating swelling associated with some heart diseases, such as heart failure.

Steglatro Side Effects

Ertugliflozin can have some side effects. It's important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency can vary from person to person. It can cause some mild side effects like headaches and thirst. Because this medication specifically increases the sugar content in your urine, it creates a sweet environment that bacteria and yeast unfortunately love. Therefore some individuals may experience vaginal or penile itching, soreness or discharge, or changes in urination, including urgent need to urinate more often. Contact your doctor if you get symptoms of genital yeast infections.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Diabetic ketoacidosis with symptoms like difficulty breathing, nausea, fruity breath smell, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, confusion, extreme thirst;
• Low blood glucose with symptoms such as tremors, blurred vision, confusion, difficulty concentrating, difficulty speaking, dizziness, loss of consciousness;
• Low blood pressure especially from dehydration with symptoms like dizziness when standing, fainting, lightheadedness;
• Necrotizing Fasciitis with symptoms such as pain, redness, tenderness, or swelling of the perineum and genitals, fever, and malaise;
• Serious urinary tract infections with symptoms like fever, back pain, frequent and painful urination;
• Skin ulcers or sores;

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Steglatro Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to ertugliflozin or any other ingredients in Steglatro. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Dehydration;
• Diabetes ketoacidosis;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Narrowed blood vessels, especially in the legs;
• Pancreatitis;
• Peripheral neuropathy;
• Severe kidney disease;
• Urinary tract infection

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that ultimately affects the nerves and blood vessels, impairing blood supply, particularly to the extremities. This puts an individual at risk of getting foot ulcers, and if left untreated, can lead to amputation of the affected limb. Some data have suggested a further increased risk of lower limb amputation (mostly toes) when using this class of drugs, particularly if you have a history of foot ulcers or poor circulation. Therefore, be sure to practice rigorous daily foot care and promptly report any new sores, ulcers, or infections to your doctor.

This medication is not indicated for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or a diabetic emergency called diabetic ketoacidosis, as it can increase the risk of this life-threatening emergency. Avoid the intake of alcohol or alcoholic beverages while taking this medication, as alcohol can cause you to develop side effects. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. This medication should be used with caution in older adults (>65 years) as they are more likely to experience side effects with this medication.

Medications such as rifampicin can accelerate the clearance of ertugliflozin from the body, potentially lowering its concentration and reducing its effectiveness in controlling blood glucose. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Steglatro to prevent potential drug interactions. Take Steglatro tablets once daily in the morning, with or without food. It is crucial to follow the specific dosage prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, cut, or chew it. Maintain adequate hydration, especially during illness or hot weather. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose for you. Refer to the leaflets in the medication pack for additional information on use. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Steglatro?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Steglatro.