Sitagliptin phosphate (often just called sitagliptin) is a pill many people use to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class called DPP‑4 inhibitors. The drug helps your body use insulin after meals and reduces the hormone glucagon that raises blood sugar. That makes glucose levels easier to manage without causing major weight gain.
Sitagliptin blocks the DPP‑4 enzyme so incretin hormones like GLP‑1 stick around longer. Those hormones tell the pancreas to release insulin when glucose is high and to slow glucagon when it’s not needed. Most adults take 100 mg once daily, with or without food. If your kidneys don’t work well, your doctor will lower the dose: common adjustments are 50 mg once daily for moderate kidney impairment and 25 mg once daily for severe impairment or dialysis. Always follow the dose your prescriber gives — don’t split or double doses on your own.
Minor side effects include stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, or mild stomach upset. Serious problems are rare but real: pancreatitis (severe belly pain that may go to your back), severe joint pain, and allergic reactions have been reported. If you have a history of pancreatitis or unexplained severe abdominal pain, tell your doctor before starting sitagliptin.
Sitagliptin can raise the risk of low blood sugar when used with insulin or sulfonylureas. Your clinician may lower the other drug’s dose to avoid hypoglycemia. Also mention any heart failure history — some DPP‑4 drugs showed small heart-failure risks in studies, so your provider will weigh benefits and risks.
Practical tips: take it at the same time daily, keep a glucose log for a few weeks after starting or changing dose, and get kidney tests before starting and periodically after. If you plan pregnancy, are breastfeeding, or have severe liver disease, discuss alternatives — sitagliptin’s safety in these settings is less clear.
Buying meds online? Be cautious. Use licensed pharmacies, require a prescription, read reviews, and check contact details. Never use unknown suppliers that sell prescription drugs without a prescriber’s approval.
Questions to ask your clinician: Is sitagliptin right for my blood sugar goals? How should we check kidney function while I take it? Should I expect changes to my other diabetes medicines? Clear answers will help you use sitagliptin safely and effectively.
If you notice severe stomach pain, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or severe joint pain, seek medical help right away. For routine changes or concerns, call your healthcare provider — small adjustments early can prevent bigger problems later.
Posted by Ian Skaife with 11 comment(s)
Apr
If your doctor mentioned sitagliptin phosphate for type 2 diabetes, there’s a lot to be curious about. This guide digs into what this medication does, how you might feel while taking it, common side effects to look out for, and things people often overlook—like food, routines, and knowing when to call your doctor. Get practical info you can use day-to-day, not just textbook answers.
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