Sitagliptin

Information About Sitagliptin

Uses of Sitagliptin

Sitagliptin is commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

How Sitagliptin Works

Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor which will prolong active incretin levels. Incretin helps to regulate glucose homeostasis by increasing insulin synthesis and decreasing glucagon secretion. This will reduce the HbA1c level

Side Effects of Sitagliptin

Headache, Dizziness, GI disturbances, Upper respiratory tract infection, Hypoglycaemia, Joint/Muscle ache

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Sitagliptin Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Sitagliptin. Alcohol can affect the blood sugar level therefore either hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia can occur. Furthermore, it can affect the pancreas which is the site of insulin production, which in turn worsen the diabetic control.

Pregnancy Maybe Safe

Animal studies have shown the toxic effects at high doses on the foetuses. Due to the lack of human data, it is not recommended to use during pregnancy. Thus, please consult your doctor for more details.

Lactation Limited Data

No academic reports explaining the use of sitagliptin during human lactation are available at the moment. Hence it is recommended to not use during breastfeeding.

Driving Generally Safe

Sitagliptin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

No dose adjustment is needed for mild renal impairment patients. However, if the glomerular filtration rate is lower than 60 mL/min, dose adjustment may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Limited Data

No dose adjustments needed in mild to moderate liver impairment whereas there are no studies on sitagliptin use in severe liver impairment. However, Sitagliptin is primarily eliminated in the kidneys, so it is effects on severe liver impairment are expected to be safe.