Warnings & Recalls for Onglyza
Pregnancy Warnings
Onglyza is a pregnancy category B drug and may be harmful to take while pregnant. In animal studies, some fetal malformations occurred. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of taking Onglyza if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using Onglyza as a treatment.
General Warnings
Onglyza
should not be used by patients with:
- diabetic ketacidosis
- a history of gallstones
- a history of alcoholism
- high blood triglyceride levels
Patients with renal (kidney) impairment should take a lowered dose of Onglyza and have their renal function tested frequently.
Discontinue using Onglyza if you develop pancreatitis, and patients with a history of pancreatitis should consult with their physician before continuing this medication.
Onglyza Interactions
When Onglyza is taken with other medications that affect insulin levels,
hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) may occur. Tell your doctor if you are on any other medications.
Onglyza Treatment and Use
Onglyza | Saxagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor and incretin mimetic class medication prescribed to help type 2 diabetes mellitus patients regulate their glycemic levels. It is manufactured and marketed by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and was initially approved by the FDA in 2009. Lately, Onglyza has been in the spotlight due to reports of acute pancreatitis.
What does Onglyza do?
Onglyza helps to lower the amount of sugar produced by the liver and also increases insulin in the body. Onglyza works by decreasing the rate of incretin hormone breakdown in order raise levels of incretin. As a response, insulin production is elevated and proper levels of glucose may be maintained.
Onglyza Dosage Information
Onglyza is available in 2.5 mg and 5 mg colored tablets. Dosage varies. The usual dosage is 5 mg once a day. For patients with kidney (renal) impairment, concurrent use of insulin, or cytochrome P450 3A4/5 inhibitors such as medications such as Norvir and Nizoral, dosage may be lowered to 2.5 mg once daily. Onglyza should be taken along with a specified diet and exercise plan. Your healthcare provider should discuss these lifestyle changes with you before prescribing the medication. Take Onglyza only as prescribed by your doctor.
