Nesina (Alogliptin) is a prescription medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or its cells don't respond appropriately to it, leading to high blood glucose (sugar) levels. Nesina is used alongside diet and exercise and may be prescribed alone or in combination with other antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin. It is not used to treat Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. The active ingredient in Nesina is Alogliptin. Alogliptin belongs to a class of medications known as Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which usually breaks down incretin hormones. By preserving incretin levels, Alogliptin helps the body maintain better glucose control throughout the day.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Nesina, manufactured by Takeda and available in Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, in strengths of 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg tablets. The generic Alogliptin is currently unavailable (at this pharmacy).
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Nesina. The most common side effects of Nesina may include the following:
• Back pain;
• Flu-like symptoms;
• Headache;
• Mild rash;
• Stomach discomfort
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe joint pain;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and loss of appetite;
• Signs of pancreatitis, including severe and persistent abdominal pain, possibly radiating to the back, with or without vomiting
These are not all of Nesina's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Nesina if you are allergic to Alogliptin or any ingredient in Nesina. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of pancreatitis;
• Have diabetic ketoacidosis;
• Have ever had heart failure;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have severe liver impairment;
• Have type 1 diabetes
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Nesina and other medicines, such as glimepiride, sitagliptin, rifampin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this medicine is safe for use in pregnancy. However, controlling blood sugar in pregnancy is essential. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Alogliptin passes into breastmilk. However, due to potential risk to a nursing infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Nesina.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes it. Nesina is available as tablets. Swallow the tablet and capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it. You can take this medicine with or without food. Take it at the same time each day to maintain steady drug levels in your blood. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Type 2 diabetes often has no symptoms. Monitor your blood sugar regularly. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol can affect blood sugar control. Maintain a healthy diet and exercise plan while using Nesina. This medicine is most effective when combined with lifestyle changes. Store this drug at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of the reach of children.