Onglyza

This content has been written and checked for quality and accuracy by

Mohamed Imran Lakhi Content Administrator GPhC: 2060586 Updated on: 08/06/2020 Next review: 08/12/2020

This content has been written by

Mohamed Imran Lakhi Content Administrator Updated on: 08/06/2020 Next review: 08/12/2020

What is Onglyza?

Onglyza is an oral anti-diabetic tablet containing Saxagliptin. This prescription-only medication is for adults with type 2 diabetes, when the condition cannot be controlled adequately with one anti-diabetic medication alone, alongside diet and exercise. It can be used in isolation or with insulin or other anti-diabetics, such as metformin.

To begin your order and buy Onglyza online today, simply fill out our short medical form and our online doctors will take care of the rest.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes causes a high level of sugar (glucose) and interacts with the insulin hormone, produced by the pancreas. Insulin causes glucose in the bloodstream to be transferred into body cells, creating energy. Following food digestion, liver enzymes break down carbohydrates into sugars. The glucose levels of people with diabetes are ineffective or lacking.

While type 2 is closely linked to obesity being overweight, the condition is also more prevalent in persons with a family history of diabetes. For example, if one of your parents has diabetes, there is an increased risk that you too may develop the condition down the line.

Treating Diabetes

It's important for diabetes to be treated and regularly monitored to prevent further complications. If left untreated, high levels of glucose in the blood (hyperglycaemia), caused by diabetes, can cause damage to the vital organs, such as the heart, liver and kidneys, as well as damage to the nerves (neuropathy). Impairments to hearing and vision (retinopathy) can also be attributed to uncontrolled diabetes.

Your doctor will be able to determine the most suitable course of treatment for you, which may include changes to your diet and lifestyle as well as medication to control your blood sugar levels, such as Onglyza.

During your course of treatment, your blood glucose levels will need to be regularly monitored to ensure that the treatment is effective. Your doctor will be able to provide further information specific to you and your condition.

How does Onglyza work?

Onglyza is prescribed for high blood sugar caused by type 2 diabetes. Taking Onglyza as prescribed controls blood sugar levels, thus improving the levels and effects of insulin. Please also follow any advice from a certified medical practitioner around diet and exercise.

How do I take Onglyza?

Always take as prescribed. The recommended dosage is 5mg per day but may be 2.5mg daily in the case of impaired kidney function. Swallow the tablet whole, with water, with or without meals. Take Onglyza around the same time each day to get the maximum benefit and help you remember when to take it.

Side effects and cautions

All medication carries the risk of side effects, though not everybody gets them. Understanding the potential risks and remaining vigilant of the possible side effects of Onglyza is important.

Before taking Onglyza, it's important to familiarise yourself with the information found within the patient information leaflet, which comes enclosed with your medicine. If you are unsure about anything mentioned in the supporting literature, ask a doctor or pharmacist for assistance.

Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Flatulence
• Muscle pain
• Stomach ache

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Further information regarding the safety of this medication can be found in the supporting literature accompanying your medicine.

Alternatively, you can view the patient information leaflet for Onglyza online.

Taking Onglyza may increase your risk of hypoglycaemia - commonly referred to as a "hypo". This is a condition in which blood sugar levels drop dangerously low. For more advice on what to do during a hypo, speak to your doctor.

Symptoms of a hypo include:

• Anxiety or irritability
• Blurred sight
• Fatigue
• Feeling tearful
• Headache
• Hunger
• Increased heart rate
• Lack of concentration
• Paling of the skin
• Palpitations
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Tingling lips

Further advice on what to do if you are having a hypo can be found here.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

You should not take Onglyza if you are pregnant. If you are pregnant, or think you might be pregnant, speak to your doctor for advice.

It is not known whether Onglyza can be passed on through breast milk. Therefore, you should not take Onglyza if you are breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for further advice.

Other cautions

Always seek your doctor's advice before you buy Onglyza online.

Never take Onglyza past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month, for example "03/25" would be the 31st of March 2025.

Do not dispose of unused, unwanted or expired medication via general or household waste. Take any unused, unwanted or expired medicine to your local pharmacy, who will be able to dispose of it safely on your behalf.

Always store medicine out of the sight and reach from children and pets.

Always take medicine as prescribed by your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I forget to take Onglyza when I should?

Take it as soon as you remember. Never double the dosage to make up and if it is nearly time for the next dose, take just one dose and continue taking as before.  Never take two doses on the same day.

What should I do if I take too much Onglyza?

If you exceed the prescribed dose, seek medical advice immediately.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Onglyza?

Alcohol, together with Onglyza, may affect blood glucose levels. If your diabetes is under control, moderate alcohol consumption is not a major concern. It is best to limit alcohol intake and always adhere to any specific medical advice given to you by your doctor in this regard.

Will Onglyza impact my ability to drive or operate machinery?

If you feel dizzy while taking Onglyza, do not drive or use any tools or machines. There is a very common risk (1 in 10 or more) of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) when this medication is taken in combination with other medications, such as insulin and Sulphonylurea.

Can I buy Onglyza online in the United Kingdom?

Yes, you can buy Onglyza online from registered online UK pharmacies, such as Prescription Doctor. All orders are reviewed by qualified doctors and pharmacy technicians, dispatched from a UK based pharmacy, and delivered in discreet packaging which gives no indication of the contents therein.

Table of contents

What is Onglyza?

How does Onglyza work?

How do I take Onglyza?

Side effects and cautions

Frequently asked questions