Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Metformin and Ertugliflozin?
Common side effects of metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach discomfort. Ertugliflozin may cause increased urination, thirst, and urinary tract infections. Both medications can lead to changes in blood sugar levels, with metformin potentially causing lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition. Ertugliflozin can increase the risk of genital infections and dehydration. Patients should be aware of these side effects and contact their healthcare provider if they experience severe or persistent symptoms.
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin?
Yes, there are potential harms and risks when taking a combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin. Ertugliflozin is a medication that helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes by helping the kidneys remove glucose from the bloodstream through urine. Metformin also helps control blood sugar levels by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin.
Possible side effects of taking these medications together include:
1. **Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia):** This can occur if the combination is taken with other diabetes medications or if meals are skipped.
2. **Dehydration:** Ertugliflozin can cause increased urination, which may lead to dehydration if fluid intake is not sufficient.
3. **Genital infections:** Ertugliflozin can increase the risk of yeast infections in the genital area.
4. **Lactic acidosis:** A rare but serious side effect of Metformin, where lactic acid builds up in the blood, which can be life-threatening.
5. **Kidney problems:** Both medications can affect kidney function, so regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important.
It's important to discuss any concerns and potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting these medications.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Ertugliflozin with other prescription drugs?
Metformin can interact with medications that affect kidney function, such as certain diuretics and contrast agents used in imaging procedures, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Ertugliflozin may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used with insulin or insulin secretagogues. Both medications require careful monitoring when used with other drugs that affect blood sugar levels. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe use of metformin and ertugliflozin.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin with other prescription drugs?
Ertugliflozin and Metformin can be taken with other prescription drugs, but it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before doing so. This is because combining these medications with other drugs can affect how they work or increase the risk of side effects. For example, taking them with diuretics (water pills) may increase the risk of dehydration. Additionally, some drugs may affect blood sugar levels, which is important to monitor when taking diabetes medications like Ertugliflozin and Metformin. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin if I am pregnant?
It is not recommended to take Ertugliflozin and Metformin during pregnancy. Ertugliflozin is a type of medication known as an SGLT2 inhibitor, which is not advised for use during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby. Metformin, on the other hand, is sometimes used during pregnancy, but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is crucial to consult with your doctor to discuss safer alternatives for managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Ertugliflozin if I am pregnant?
Metformin is sometimes used during pregnancy to manage gestational diabetes, but its safety profile is not fully established. Ertugliflozin is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus, particularly concerning kidney development. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to ensure the safety of both mother and child. Alternative medications may be considered to manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Ertugliflozin while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the safety of metformin and ertugliflozin during lactation. Metformin is known to be present in breast milk, but its effects on the breastfed infant are not well established. Ertugliflozin's safety during breastfeeding is not well studied, and due to potential risks to the developing kidney, it is generally not recommended. Women who are breastfeeding should discuss the risks and benefits of these medications with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.
Can I take combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin while breastfeeding?
According to the NHS, it is generally advised to avoid taking Ertugliflozin while breastfeeding because it is not known if it passes into breast milk and what effects it might have on a nursing infant. Metformin, on the other hand, is considered safe to use while breastfeeding as only small amounts pass into breast milk and it is unlikely to harm the baby. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding to ensure it is safe for both you and your baby.
Who should avoid taking combination of Metformin and Ertugliflozin?
Metformin carries a warning for lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition, especially in patients with kidney impairment or those consuming excessive alcohol. Ertugliflozin is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment and can increase the risk of ketoacidosis and lower limb amputation. Both medications should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Patients should be aware of these risks and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider, ensuring regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed guidelines.
Who should avoid taking combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin?
People who should avoid taking the combination of Ertugliflozin and Metformin include those with severe kidney problems, as these medications can affect kidney function. Additionally, individuals with a history of serious allergic reactions to either of these drugs should not take them. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid this combination, as it may not be safe for the baby. It's important for anyone considering this medication to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it's appropriate for their specific health conditions.