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Onglyza
(Click Onglyza Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Onglyza is made by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) and is marketed by BMS and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP.
Onglyza is part of a class of diabetes medications called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. DPP-4 is an enzyme that breaks down incretin hormones.
As a DPP-4 inhibitor, Onglyza slows down the breakdown of incretin hormones, increasing the level of these hormones in the body. It is this increase in incretin hormones that is responsible for the beneficial actions of Onglyza, including increasing insulin production in response to meals and decreasing the amount of glucose (sugar) that the liver produces.
Because incretin hormones are more active in response to higher blood sugar levels (and are less active in response to low blood sugar), the risk of dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is low with Onglyza.
There have been several studies that looked at the effects of Onglyza for type 2 diabetes.
Hemoglobin A1c
Hemoglobin A1c (HgA1c) is a test used to measure long-term blood sugar control. For people without diabetes, HgA1c results are usually less than 6 percent, while people with diabetes usually have higher results. In one study, people taking Onglyza lowered their HgA1c by 0.4 to 0.5 percent on average (depending on the dose), while people not taking it increased their HgA1c by 0.2 percent.
Studies have shown that the higher the HbA1c, the greater the chance for developing long-term problems related to diabetes. This includes problems such as heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. By getting blood sugar levels under control with Onglyza, it may be possible to decrease the chances for developing these diabetes complications.
Blood Sugar Levels
In studies, Onglyza lowered fasting blood sugar by 9 to 15 mg/dL on average. The medication also lowered 2-hour postprandial blood sugar (blood sugar two hours after a meal) by 43 to 45 mg/dL on average.
When and How Do I Take It?
Some general considerations include the following:
- Onglyza comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth once a day.
- This medicine can be taken with or without food.
- You can take Onglyza at any time of day; however, you should try to take it at the same time every day.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
Onglyza Dosing Information
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- How well your diabetes is controlled
- Other medical conditions you may have (especially kidney disease)
- Other medications you may currently be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Onglyza may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Some of the most common side effects include, but are not limited to:
(Click Onglyza Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Onglyza
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Type 1 diabetes
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Any allergies, including allergies to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
It is unknown what to expect from an overdose of this medication. If you happen to overdose on Onglyza, seek medical attention immediately.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Onglyza?
If you forget to take your dose, take the missed dose as soon as your remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of Onglyza.
Onglyza comes in the following strengths:
- Onglyza 2.5 mg
- Onglyza 5 mg.
Is There a Generic Version of Onglyza?
This medication is not available in generic form.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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