Indications  

Steglujan is a prescribed medication used in conjunction with diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 

Steglujan comprises a duo of active components: ertugliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, and sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. 

Ertugliflozin facilitates the elimination of glucose through the kidneys, while sitagliptin elevates levels of incretins, which regulate blood sugar by boosting insulin secretion and reducing hepatic glucose production. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Steglujan and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for any inquiries or concerns. 

The dosage of this medication is determined based on individual medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

Typically, Steglujan is taken once daily in the morning as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed at a consistent time each day. Refrain from altering the prescribed dosage, frequency, and duration of intake without consulting your doctor. 

Inform your doctor if there is no improvement in your condition or if it deteriorates (elevated or decreased blood sugar levels). 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Steglujan. Tell your doctor right away if any of them last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Increased frequency of urination 
• Gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea 
• Headache 
• Common cold symptoms like: 
  • Nasal congestion 
  • Sneezing 
  • Sore throat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe autoimmune reaction:  
  • Itching 
  • Blisters 
  • Skin layer breakdown 
• New pain, tenderness, ulcers, infections in legs or feet 
• Severe or persistent joint pain 
• Reduced or absent urination 
• Ketoacidosis (excessive blood acid):  
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Confusion 
  • Drowsiness 
  • Breathing difficulty 
• Dehydration symptoms: 
  • Dizziness 
  • Weakness 
  • Lightheadedness 
  • Risk of fainting 
• Bladder infection signs: 
  • Painful or burning urination 
  • Increased urination 
  • Blood in urine 
  • Fever 
  • Pelvic/back pain 
• Heart failure symptoms:  
  • Breathlessness (even while lying down) 
  • Leg/foot swelling 
  • Rapid weight gain 
• Pancreatitis symptoms: 
  • Intense upper stomach pain radiating to back, with/without nausea and vomiting 

Inform your doctor right away if any of the serious side effects above are experienced. 

Immediately seek medical care if you display signs of an uncommon yet severe genital infection (penis or vagina): itching, burning, discharge, odor, pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or rectal region, accompanied by fever or general discomfort. Rapid deterioration of these symptoms is possible. 

A severe skin reaction may also occur. Promptly seek emergency medical assistance if you experience symptoms like: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Eye burning 
• Skin pain 
• A red/purple skin rash that spreads, blisters, and peels 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Steglujan may occur. Seek prompt medical attention in case of any signs of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling 
• Difficulty breathing 

Not all side effects of Steglujan are included in this list. Notify your doctor if any unlisted effects are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Steglujan, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to ertugliflozin, sitagliptin, or other medicines. 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information regarding Steglujan, as it may contain inactive ingredients that could lead to allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Steglujan is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Kidney disease/failure requiring dialysis 
• Heart failure 
• Dehydration 
• Low blood pressure 
• Pancreatic disease (pancreatitis) 
• Alcohol use/abuse 
• Gallbladder stones (gallstones) 
• Vaginal or penile yeast infections 
• Blocked or narrowed blood vessels, often in the leg 
• Nerve issues (e.g., diabetic peripheral neuropathy) 
• Foot sores or ulcers 
• Amputation 

Various drugs can potentially influence blood sugar regulation, posing challenges in maintaining control. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist before commencing, ceasing, or modifying any medication to understand its impact on blood sugar levels. 

Follow the prescribed schedule for monitoring blood sugar and promptly share the findings with your doctor. If high or low blood sugar symptoms arise, promptly inform your doctor. Adjustments may be necessary in terms of diabetes medication, exercise routine, or dietary intake as determined by your doctor. 

Ensure that all medical professionals and laboratory staff are aware of your Steglujan usage, as it may result in a positive glucose test in your urine. 

While taking Steglujan, individuals may experience symptoms of low blood sugar, such as intense hunger, dizziness, irritability, confusion, anxiety, or tremors. To promptly alleviate hypoglycemia, consume a rapid-acting sugar source like fruit juice, hard candy, crackers, raisins, or regular soda. 

The potential side effects of either very low or high blood sugar include blurred vision, dizziness, and drowsiness. Abstain from driving, using machinery, or participating in any activity that necessitates alertness until you can do so safely. 

Managing blood sugar levels can be more challenging when the body is under stress, such as during a fever, infection, injury, or surgery. Moreover, if you are eating less or unable to eat due to these conditions or any illness, it can result in elevated ketone levels while taking this medication. Consult your doctor as adjustments may need to be made to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar and ketone testing. 

Steglujan should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. Consult your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits. 

The transfer of ertugliflozin and sitagliptin into breast milk is uncertain. Prior to breastfeeding, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.