0

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

Steglujan Information

Steglujan (Ertugliflozin/Sitagliptin) is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, in addition to dietary modifications and exercise. 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.

This combination medication features two active ingredients: ertugliflozin and sitagliptin, which belong to the drug classes of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, respectively. Ertugliflozin targets the kidneys to block the protein responsible for glucose reabsorption, thereby increasing urinary glucose excretion. Concurrently, sitagliptin increases the levels of endogenous incretins by inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-4. This action signals the pancreas to produce more insulin after meals and signals the liver to stop producing extra sugar. This dual approach to diabetes management helps to stabilize the blood sugar levels.

It is worth noting that this medication is not recommended for the treatment of type-1 diabetes. It should also not be used in life-threatening complications of diabetes known as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Steglujan Side Effects

Steglujan carries a mix of potential side effects because it combines two different medications. However, not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity and frequency can vary from person to person. Some common mild side effects include constipation, headache, increased frequency of urination, joint pain, muscle aches, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, thirst, and vomiting. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects don't resolve or bother you.

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;
• Genital yeast infection with symptoms like vaginal or penile itching, soreness or discharge;
• Kidney problems with symptoms such as increased urination at night, decreased urine production, blood in the urine, painful or difficult urination;
• 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;
• Pancreatitis with symptoms such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea;
• Serious urinary tract infections with symptoms like fever, back pain, frequent and painful urination

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

Steglujan Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to the active or inactive ingredients in Steglujan. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Alcohol abuse;
• Diabetes ketoacidosis;
• Dehydration;
• Gallstones;
• Genital yeast infections;
• High fat levels in the blood;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Narrowed blood vessels, especially in the legs;
• Pancreatitis;
• Peripheral neuropathy;
• Urinary tract infections

An increased incidence of lower limb amputations (primarily of the toe) has been observed in clinical trials with ertugliflozin, especially in individuals with diabetic foot ulcers. 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 recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. Individuals aged 65 and older are more likely to experience side effects from Steglujan. Doses for older adults should generally be lower and increased more slowly than for other adults.

Avoid the intake of alcohol or alcoholic beverages while taking this medication, as alcohol can cause you to develop side effects. If you are planning to have surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking this medication, as you may need to stop it days before the surgery. Taking Steglujan with some other drugs may lead to adverse effects. For example, taking Steglujan with some other hypoglycemic medications may put you at risk of dangerously low blood sugar. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Steglujan to prevent potential drug interactions.

Take one Steglujan tablet orally once daily, typically in the morning. Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or without food. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose for you. Aim for the same time each day to keep the medicine levels steady in your body. 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 Steglujan?

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