What is Sitagliptin Tablets ?
Sitagliptin is a medication commonly sold under the brand name Januvia. It belongs to a class of drugs known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Sitagliptin is primarily used to manage high blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Sitagliptin Tablets Uses
- Type 2 Diabetes Management: Sitagliptin is prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes to help control their blood sugar levels. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones in the body, which help regulate blood sugar.
- Blood Sugar Control: It helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing the release of insulin from the pancreas and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver.
- Post-Meal Blood Sugar Regulation: It is particularly effective in controlling blood sugar levels after meals, helping to prevent spikes in glucose levels.
- Long-term Glycemic Control: Sitagliptin is often used as a long-term treatment for managing diabetes. It is typically taken once a day, with or without food.
- Adjunct to Diet and Exercise: It is usually prescribed in conjunction with a proper diet and exercise program, as part of an overall diabetes management plan.
- Combination Therapy: Sitagliptin can be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin, to enhance blood sugar control.
Sitagliptin Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Inhibition of DPP-4: DPP-4 is an enzyme that breaks down incretin hormones in the body. Incretins are natural hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of insulin and reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver. Sitagliptin inhibits the action of DPP-4, thereby prolonging the activity of incretins.
- Increased Incretin Levels: By inhibiting DPP-4, sitagliptin allows for higher levels of active incretins in the body. The two main incretins are GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide). These hormones enhance insulin secretion in response to meals and decrease glucagon secretion (a hormone that raises blood sugar levels).
Sitagliptin Tablets – Side-effects
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: This includes symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and coughing.
- Headache: Some people may experience mild to moderate headaches.
- Stomach Upset: This can include symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
