Saxagliptin (Onglyza)

Saxagliptin is an oral medication used to reduce high blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It works by stimulating insulin production after meals and signaling the liver to stop the production of glucose. Onglyza is often used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise, to help patients manage their type 2 diabetes.

Saxagliptin overview

Brand names: Saxagliptin is marketed as Onglyza.

Drug class: Onglyza is a dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitor that works to lower blood sugar levels by breaking down incretin hormones (e.g. GLP-1). This process allows for increased insulin production and decreased glucose production by the liver.

Other drugs in the class include the following:

• Sitagliptin (Januvia)
• Linagliptin (Tradjenta)

Dosage: Onglyza is administered in the form of a tablet taken by mouth once a day, with or without food. It should not be used by individuals with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Onglyza is often used in combination with another anti-diabetes drug, especially metformin.

Side effects: Some patients taking Onglyza may experience side effects that could include headaches, upper respiratory and urinary tract infections.