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Description
Indications
This combination medication is employed alongside a suitable diet and exercise regimen to manage elevated blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Alogliptin functions by augmenting the levels of natural substances known as incretins. Incretins play a crucial role in blood sugar control by boosting insulin release, particularly after meals, and by reducing the production of sugar by the liver. Metformin works by restoring the body’s appropriate response to naturally produced insulin. It also reduces the amount of sugar generated by the liver and absorbed by the stomach and intestines. The combination of these actions contributes to the overall management of blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally as prescribed by your doctor, typically twice a day with meals. Ensure you drink an adequate amount of fluids while using this medication, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Do not break or cut the tablet before ingestion. If you encounter difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, inform your doctor.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition, response to treatment, and any other medications you may be taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products. To minimize the risk of side effects, your doctor may instruct you to initiate this medication at a low dose and gradually increase it.
Take this medication consistently to derive the maximum benefit. Establish a routine by taking it at the same times each day. Adhere closely to your diabetes management plan, incorporating medications, dietary considerations, and exercise.
Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as per your doctor’s instructions. Keep a record of the results and share them with your doctor. Inform your doctor if your blood sugar readings frequently deviate from the target range. Adjustments to your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet may be necessary.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- body aches or pain
- ear congestion
- excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
- full feeling
- lack of loss of strength
- loss of voice
- muscle aches
- passing gas
- sneezing
- stuffy or runny nose
- back pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blurred vision
- dizziness
- headache
- nervousness
- pounding in the ears
- slow or fast heartbeat
- anxiety
- bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- chest pain or tightness
- chills
- cold sweats
- coma
- confusion
- cool, pale skin
- decreased urine output
- depression
- difficult, burning, or painful urination
Caution
- Before starting this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to alogliptin or metformin, or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product could potentially cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of breathing problems, kidney disease, liver problems, pancreatitis, gallstones, or vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Extreme low or high blood sugar may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. Avoid activities that require alertness or clear vision until you are certain you can perform them safely.
- While using this medication, limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of lactic acidosis and low blood sugar.
- Dehydration, caused by high fever, diuretics, excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, may increase the risk of lactic acidosis. Inform your doctor promptly if you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting and maintain adequate fluid intake unless directed otherwise.
- Stressful situations, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, can make it challenging to control blood sugar.
- Consult your doctor in such cases, as adjustments to your treatment plan, medications, or blood sugar testing may be necessary.
- Older adults may have a higher risk of side effects, including low blood sugar or lactic acidosis.
- This medication can impact a woman’s menstrual cycle, promote ovulation, and increase the likelihood of pregnancy. Discuss reliable birth control methods with your doctor or pharmacist while using this medication.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when necessary, and discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Pregnancy may cause or worsen diabetes. Work with your doctor to manage your blood sugar during pregnancy, potentially necessitating changes to your diabetes treatment plan.
- Metformin passes into breast milk in small amounts, and it’s unknown if alogliptin does. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Kazano is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Kazano tablet:
- 12.5 mg / 1000 mg
FAQ
Can I use insulin if I’m taking Kazano?
It’s possible that your provider might prescribe Kazano and insulin for you at the same time. Be mindful that taking Kazano with insulin puts you at risk for having low blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening.
Can you drink alcohol while taking Kazano?
It’s best to avoid or limit drinking alcohol if you’re taking Kazano. In general, alcohol raises your risk of low blood sugar.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/kazano/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/kazano#google_vignette
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/alogliptin-and-metformin-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20060759?
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-163396/kazano-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/kazano.html
