Meliglix 100 Mg (Sitagliptin)

Sitagliptin is used in the management of type 2 diabetes, a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and impaired glucose regulation.

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (monotherapy): lowers fasting and post‑prandial glucose levels as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus (combination therapy): used with metformin or other oral agents to achieve target HbA1c.
• Adults with inadequate glycaemic control on other oral antidiabetics: provides additional glucose‑lowering effect.

• Sitagliptin selectively inhibits the dipeptidyl peptidase‑4 (DPP‑4) enzyme, which degrades the incretin hormones GLP‑1 and GIP. By preventing this degradation, sitagliptin increases circulating incretin levels, thereby enhancing glucose‑dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic β‑cells and suppressing glucagon release from α‑cells, leading to improved post‑prandial and overall glycaemic control.

Adverse reactions may occur with sitagliptin therapy.

Common Side Effects

• Nasopharyngitis: mild upper respiratory tract infection symptoms.
• Headache: transient mild to moderate headache.
• Upper respiratory tract infection: cough, sore throat, or congestion.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, abdominal pain, or dyspepsia.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Pancreatitis: severe abdominal pain possibly radiating to the back.
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, angioedema, or anaphylaxis.
• Joint pain: unexplained arthralgia, especially in the lower limbs.
• Bullous pemphigoid: rare autoimmune blistering skin disorder.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: fever, eosinophilia, or organ involvement.

Before initiating sitagliptin, consider the following safety measures.

• Monitor blood glucose: assess glycaemic control regularly.
• Assess renal function: dose adjustment may be required in renal impairment.
• Review hepatic status: use caution in patients with liver disease.
• Evaluate pancreatitis history: avoid in individuals with prior pancreatitis.
• Check for hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture.

Sitagliptin may interact with other medicines; awareness of the interaction level is important.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Co‑administration with other DPP‑4 inhibitors (e.g., alogliptin, saxagliptin): risk of additive pharmacologic effect.
• Strong renal‑impairing agents (e.g., high‑dose NSAIDs): may increase sitagliptin exposure.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Insulin or sulfonylureas: heightened risk of hypoglycaemia, monitor glucose levels.
• Rifampin: may reduce sitagliptin plasma concentrations, consider efficacy.
• Diuretics: monitor renal function and electrolytes during combined therapy.