Description
💊 What is Dapagliflozin + Metformin + Sitagliptin?
This triple-combination medication is used to treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults who are unable to achieve adequate glucose control with dual therapy. It contains:
- Dapagliflozin (10 mg) – an SGLT2 inhibitor
- Metformin (1000 mg) – a biguanide
- Sitagliptin (100 mg) – a DPP-4 inhibitor
These three drugs work synergistically to lower blood sugar levels, reduce complications, and improve metabolic health.
✅ How to Use
- Usual Dose: One tablet taken once or twice daily, as prescribed by your doctor. When Metformin 1000mg is involved, doses may be split (e.g., morning and evening).
- Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects, especially from Metformin.
- Swallow whole — do not crush or chew.
- Maintain hydration, particularly with dapagliflozin to prevent dehydration or urinary infections.
- Always combine with healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Continue regular blood sugar monitoring.
⚙️ How Each Ingredient Works
| Drug | Mechanism | Benefit |
| Dapagliflozin | Blocks kidney glucose reabsorption → glucose excreted in urine | Lowers blood glucose, supports weight loss |
| Metformin | Decreases liver glucose production & improves insulin sensitivity | Reduces fasting blood sugar levels |
| Sitagliptin | Increases incretin hormones → enhances insulin, reduces glucagon | Improves post-meal glucose control |
⚠️ Common Side Effects
| Area | Possible Effects |
| Digestive | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort (mostly from Metformin) |
| Urinary | Increased urination, urinary tract infections (from Dapagliflozin) |
| Skin | Mild rash or itching (from Sitagliptin, rare) |
| General | Fatigue, headache, dizziness |
🚨 Serious Side Effects (Rare but Serious)
- Lactic Acidosis – rare but life-threatening (due to Metformin). Symptoms: fatigue, muscle pain, slow breathing.
- Pancreatitis – uncommon with Sitagliptin. Symptoms: severe abdominal pain radiating to the back.
- Ketoacidosis – rare with Dapagliflozin. Even with normal glucose levels. Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, confusion.
- Genital infections – due to sugar in the urine from Dapagliflozin.
- Hypoglycemia – rare with this combo unless combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.
🧪 Monitoring & Follow-Up
Your doctor will regularly check:
- HbA1c levels (every 3–6 months)
- Renal function (eGFR, creatinine)
- Liver enzymes
- Blood glucose readings
- Signs of dehydration or infection
❗ Warnings & Precautions
- Not suitable for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Use caution in patients with kidney, liver, or heart disease.
- Avoid excessive alcohol, which increases lactic acidosis risk.
- Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or having surgery.
- Drink plenty of fluids to reduce risk of dehydration.
📌 Summary
This combination of Dapagliflozin + Metformin + Sitagliptin targets blood sugar in three complementary ways. It offers effective control but needs careful monitoring, hydration, and lifestyle adherence. Side effects are mostly manageable and can be reduced with proper use.
For more detailed information, consult with your healthcare provider or refer to trusted medical resources.
