Onglyza (Saxagliptin)

Do’s

• Take Onglyza exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Don't split or cut it unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
• Take Onglyza consistently, ideally at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of medication in your body.
• Be upfront with your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products. This helps avoid potential interactions.
• Follow your healthcare provider's comprehensive treatment plan, which likely includes diet and exercise recommendations alongside Onglyza, to effectively manage your condition.

Don'ts

• Don't take Onglyza in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed.
• Don't change the tablet by splitting or cutting it unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to.
• Don't skip or discontinue Onglyza without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping the medication could be harmful.

Common side effects:

• Painful urination
• Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough
• Swelling in your hands or feet
• Symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used with other anti-diabetic medications, such as sudden sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet

Serious side effects:

• Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) such as increased thirst/urination
• Signs of disease of the pancreas, including severe stomach/abdominal pain which may spread to the back, nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop
• Serious allergic reactions, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing
• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which may be severe and lead to death
• Heart failure symptoms, such as increasing shortness of breath or trouble breathing, especially when lying down; an unusually fast increase in weight; swelling or fluid retention, especially in the feet, ankles, or legs; or unusual tiredness
• Severe or ongoing pain in joints
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Serious heart problems, including shortness of breath (even while lying down), feeling weak or tired, rapid weight gain, and swelling (especially in your feet, legs, or midsection)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Onglyza,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies before taking Onglyza.

Tell your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions, especially:

• Kidney disease
• Pancreatitis or risk factors for pancreatitis (gallstones, alcohol abuse, high blood fats)
• Heart failure

Onglyza may affect blood sugar levels. Be aware of symptoms of high or low blood sugar and avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how Onglyza affects you.

Limit alcohol consumption while taking Onglyza as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar and pancreatitis.

Stress can affect blood sugar control. Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience stress as your diabetes treatment plan may need adjustment.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Onglyza, before surgery.

Onglyza should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Pregnancy can affect blood sugar control, so a plan for managing blood sugar with your healthcare provider is recommended. It is unknown if Onglyza passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.