How do you take Sitagliptin (Sitagliptin Phosphate Monohydrate)?

The usual dose is one 100 mg tablet once a day. You can take it with or without food, just try to take it at the same time every day so you don't forget. Your doctor may start you on 50 mg if you have kidney problems. Continue taking it even when you feel fine, as diabetes needs long-term management.

What are the side effects of Sitagliptin (Sitagliptin Phosphate Monohydrate)?

Headache, runny or stuffy nose (like cold symptoms), stomach discomfort or diarrhea, upper respiratory infection, joint pain

Who should not take Sitagliptin (Sitagliptin Phosphate Monohydrate)?

People allergic to sitagliptin or any ingredient in the tablet, people with type 1 diabetes (this medicine only works for type 2), people with diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious diabetes complication), people with severe kidney disease (unless the doctor specifically adjusts the dose), and children under 18 years.

Prescription

Antidiabetic (DPP-4 Inhibitor)

Sitagliptin

Q: What is Sitagliptin (Sitagliptin Phosphate Monohydrate) used for?

Type 2 diabetes (sugar disease), high blood sugar

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Sitagliptin is a diabetes medicine that works by helping your body produce more insulin after you eat and reducing the amount of sugar your liver releases into your blood, so your blood sugar stays under control.

How it works

Inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme, preventing degradation of incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) and thereby prolonging their action to increase insulin secretion and decrease glucagon release in response to meals, resulting in improved blood glucose control.

What is it used for?

Type 2 diabetes (sugar disease)high blood sugar

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Diabetes

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Always buy your diabetes medicine from a licensed pharmacy and do not buy from roadside sellers or unregistered shops, as fake drugs are common and can be dangerous. Do not stop taking this medicine because you feel fine; diabetes is a long-term condition that needs continuous management. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and watch for signs of low blood sugar like dizziness, sweating, shaking, or confusion, especially if you are taking other diabetes drugs alongside sitagliptin.

Common Side Effects

Headache
runny or stuffy nose (like cold symptoms)
stomach discomfort or diarrhea
upper respiratory infection
joint pain

Serious Side Effects

Severe stomach pain that doesn't go away (could be pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas, which is a medical emergency)
severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
lips or tongue and difficulty breathing
unusual blistering or peeling of the skin.

Drug Interactions

If you are taking insulin or other diabetes medicines like glimepiride, combining them with sitagliptin can cause your blood sugar to drop too low, so your doctor may need to adjust the dose. Be careful with alcohol as it can make your blood sugar unpredictable when combined with diabetes medicines. Let your doctor know if you are taking digoxin (a heart medicine) as sitagliptin may increase its levels in your body.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Sitagliptin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or breastfeeding so they can switch you to a safer option.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to sitagliptin or any ingredient in the tablet
people with type 1 diabetes (this medicine only works for type 2)
people with diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious diabetes complication)
people with severe kidney disease (unless the doctor specifically adjusts the dose)
and children under 18 years.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, especially important in hot Nigerian weather. Keep in the original pack and away from moisture. Always keep out of reach of children.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.