ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin)

What is this medication?

ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin)
Antidiabetic Agent; Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 (DPP-4) Inhibitor

ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin) is officially indicated for Diabetes mellitus Type 2.

How does this medication work?

Incretin hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) regulate glucose by increasing the production and release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells while also decreasing glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells.  Decreasing glucagon results in less glucose production by the liver. Incretin hormones are normally released by the intestines and production is stimulated by food.  Incretins are inactivated by DPP-4.  ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin) inhibits DPP-4 thereby raising incretin levels and resulting in lower blood glucose. 

How should I take this medication?

Oral: Take 2.5-5mg once daily.

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole, take consistently at same time each day with or without a meal unless otherwise directed.

You Need to Avoid: Do not use for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies, medications you currently take, if you have had bariatric surgery, if you have kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, a history of pancreatitis, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C). Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Peripheral edema, headache, hypoglycemia, urinary tract infection.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for ONGLYZA (Saxagliptin), only common ones.