Steglujan (Ertugliflozin/Sitagliptin)

Description

Steglujan, along with diet and exercise, is used to help control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Steglujan consists of two medications: ertugliflozin, a sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, and sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. 

The generic names for Steglujan are Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin. 

Directions

Steglujan tablets come in strengths of 5 mg ertugliflozin/100 mg sitagliptin and 15 mg ertugliflozin/100 mg sitagliptin.

Once you are prescribed and buy Steglujan, then depending on how well you tolerate Steglujan and if you need more blood sugar control, the dose may range from 5 mg ertugliflozin/100 mg sitagliptin to 15 mg ertugliflozin/100 mg. Take Steglujan by mouth once daily in the morning. Steglujan can be taken with or without food. 

Ingredients

The active ingredients found in Steglujan are Ertugliflozin and Sitagliptin. 

Contraindications

Consult your doctor about any allergies you may have before you take Steglujan. You should not take Steglujan if you are allergic to ertugliflozin, sitagliptin, or any other ingredient or excipient found in Steglujan.

You should not take Steglujan if you have severe kidney problems or if you are on dialysis.

Cautions

• Steglujan may cause pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas that can be severe and life-threatening. If your stomach hurts in the abdominal area and the pain does not go away, stop taking Steglujan and let your doctor know immediately. 
• Ketoacidosis can be a serious side effect of Steglujan. If you develop symptoms such as stomach pain in the abdominal area, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, stop taking Steglujan and contact your doctor right away.
• Steglujan may increase your risk of amputation to your leg or foot. Be sure you discuss foot care with your doctor. If you notice new pain, tenderness, infections, sores, or ulcers on your lower limbs, then contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may decide to discontinue Steglujan.
• If you cannot eat or drink as much as you used to, let your doctor know. If you have vomiting, diarrhea, or been out in the heat for too long and are not getting enough liquids, tell your doctor.
• Tell your doctor if you have to urinate more frequently, if you experience burning when you urinate, or if your urine is cloudy, pink, or red. These could be signs of a urinary tract infection.
• Be sure to let your doctor know if you have a history of heart failure. If you develop shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles, feet, or legs, tiredness, or rapid weight gain, immediately call your doctor.
• Steglujan may cause your blood sugar levels to drop, especially if you are taking other medications that can lower blood sugar levels, such as insulin. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include hunger, confusion, nervousness, fast heart beat, shakiness, or sweating. Be sure to treat your low blood sugar as your doctor has instructed.
• Your risk for a rare and serious bacterial infection of the tissues around the anus and genitals may be increased with the use of Steglujan. If you feel weak and have a fever, pain, redness, or swelling of the skin around the anus and genitals, you should seek medical care immediately. 
• Tell your doctor if you experience vaginal itching or if you have an odor or white to yellowish vaginal discharge. These could be signs of a vaginal yeast infection.
• Tell your doctor if you experience itching around your penis or if you have pain, swelling, or redness of the penis or an odorous penile discharge. These may be signs that you have a penile yeast infection.
• Steglujan use may develop severe skin reactions that may need treatment at a hospital. Contact your doctor if you develop a skin reaction or blisters on your skin. Your doctor may choose to stop your Steglujan.
• Some people may experience joint pain with the use of Steglujan. Tell your doctor if you develop joint pain.
• Stop taking Steglujan and seek medical care immediately if you have an allergic reaction or a severe skin reaction, swelling, or peeling of the skin.
• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, let your doctor know. Taking Steglujan during pregnancy may pose a risk to the fetus.
• If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, let your doctor know. It is not recommended to take Steglujan while breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Steglujan may cause side effects. Contact your doctor if you experience adverse effects. Common side effects of Steglujan may include:

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Changes in urination
• Yeast infection of the vagina
• Yeast infection of the penis
• Stomach problems
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Upper respiratory tract infection

References:

1. STEGLUJAN Prescribing Information. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merk Sharp & Dhome Corp., 2021.
2. Important Safety Information. Steglujan (ertugliflozin and sitagliptin). Accessed November 16, 2021.
3. Urinary tract infection (UTI). Mayo Clinic. Accessed November 16, 2021.