đź’Š Dapagliflozin 5mg + Sitagliptin 50mg Tablet: Dual-Action Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes
Introduction
Dapagliflozin 5mg + Sitagliptin 50mg is an oral fixed-dose combination medication designed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in adults. By combining two complementary mechanisms of action—SGLT2 inhibition and DPP-4 inhibition—this therapy offers enhanced blood sugar control with a lower risk of hypoglycemia and added metabolic and cardiovascular benefits.
Composition and Mechanism of Action
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Dapagliflozin (5 mg):
A sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor that acts on the kidneys to block glucose reabsorption. This causes excess glucose to be excreted through the urine, thereby reducing blood sugar levels. -
Sitagliptin (50 mg):
A dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that enhances the body’s own incretin system. It increases insulin release and decreases glucagon levels in a glucose-dependent manner, improving postprandial and fasting blood glucose levels.
Together, these drugs offer a synergistic approach to blood glucose control without significant risk of hypoglycemia or weight gain.
Uses
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Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control.
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Prescribed when monotherapy or dual therapy with metformin or another antidiabetic agent is insufficient.
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Offers added benefit in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease (CKD), as supported by growing clinical evidence.
Dosage & Administration
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Recommended Dose: One tablet (Dapagliflozin 5mg + Sitagliptin 50mg) once daily, preferably in the morning.
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Can be taken with or without food.
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Dose adjustments may be required based on kidney function or other concomitant therapies.
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Not for use in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Side Effects
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Common:
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Urinary tract infections
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Genital fungal infections
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Nasopharyngitis
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Headache
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Increased urination
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Less Common but Serious:
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Dehydration and low blood pressure
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Acute pancreatitis (rare, sitagliptin-related)
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Hypoglycemia (more likely if combined with sulfonylureas or insulin)
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Ketoacidosis (euglycemic in some cases)
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Precautions & Warnings
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Renal Function: Regular monitoring required. Not recommended in severe renal impairment.
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Liver Disease: Use with caution; liver enzymes should be monitored.
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Pancreatitis History: Sitagliptin may increase risk; monitor for signs (e.g., abdominal pain, nausea).
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Hydration: Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration and hypotension.
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Surgical Procedures or Illness: Temporary discontinuation may be advised.
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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Drug Interactions
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Diuretics or NSAIDs: Can increase risk of kidney impairment or dehydration.
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Insulin or sulfonylureas: May increase hypoglycemia risk—monitor glucose levels.
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Alcohol: May increase risk of lactic acidosis or pancreatitis.
Storage
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Store at controlled room temperature (15°C–30°C), in a dry place.
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Keep away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
Conclusion
Dapagliflozin 5mg + Sitagliptin 50mg tablet offers a dual-mechanism, once-daily therapy for effective and convenient glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Its benefits go beyond blood sugar control, including cardiovascular and renal protection potential. With appropriate monitoring and patient education, this combination can be a valuable tool in long-term diabetes management.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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