Saxagliptin (Onglyza)
$1.00
Onglyza (Saxagliptin) is a once-daily tablet for type 2 diabetes that helps the body release more insulin after meals to control blood sugar.
Drug Information
1 review for Saxagliptin (Onglyza)
Onglyza contains Saxagliptin.
Saxagliptin is a once-a-day tablet for type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a group called DPP-4 inhibitors (gliptins).
What is it used for?
- Type 2 diabetes in adults
How does it work?
Saxagliptin blocks the enzyme DPP-4, so natural gut hormones that boost insulin after meals work for longer.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- This medicine works best together with healthy eating, regular activity and keeping a healthy weight.
- It is for type 2 diabetes. It is not a replacement for insulin in type 1 diabetes.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver or heart problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Insulin is often used instead during pregnancy.
- Alcohol can affect your blood sugar. Drink only small amounts and never on an empty stomach.
- Learn the signs of low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, hunger, fast heartbeat, confusion) and keep sugary sweets or glucose tablets with you.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas), gallstones or a high triglyceride level.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, as your dose may need to change.
- On its own it rarely causes low blood sugar, but it can when taken with a sulfonylurea or insulin.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart failure. Saxagliptin may slightly raise the risk of going to hospital for heart failure.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Onglyza can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Cold-like symptoms such as a stuffy nose or sore throat
- Headache
- Joint pain
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Signs of very low blood sugar that do not get better after eating sugar: confusion, drowsiness, fits or passing out
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or lips, a severe rash, or trouble breathing
- Severe stomach pain that spreads to your back, with or without being sick (possible pancreatitis)
- Large, tense blisters on the skin (a rare skin condition called bullous pemphigoid)
- Severe or long-lasting joint pain
- Swelling of the legs, quick weight gain or breathlessness (signs of heart failure)
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it once a day, at the same time each day.
- Swallow the tablet whole with water. You can take it with or without food.
- The usual adult dose is 5 mg once a day (2.5 mg if you have kidney problems or take certain other medicines).
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QWill I need to take Onglyza forever?
- A
Type 2 diabetes is usually a long-term condition, so most people keep taking their medicine. Healthy changes to diet, activity and weight can sometimes reduce how much you need.
- QHow will I know if Onglyza is working?
- A
Your doctor will check your blood sugar and HbA1c (an average of your blood sugar over about 3 months). Some people also check their sugar at home.
- QWill Onglyza make me put on weight?
- A
No. This type of medicine usually does not cause weight gain.

Emma Verma –
I was a little nervous about ordering Saxagliptin online, but it turned out fine. Adding it to the cart and paying was quick. Happy with the experience overall.