Description
Qtern is made of two medications: dapagliflozin (SGLT2 inhibitor) and saxagliptin (DPP-4 inhibitor). Qtern (dapagliflozin and saxagliptin) is used to help lower the A1C in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Qtern is available in two tablet strengths:
- 5 mg dapagliflozin/5 mg saxagliptin
- 10 mg dapagliflozin/5 mg saxagliptin
Fact Table |
Formula |
C21H25ClO6•C3H8O2•H2O |
License |
US DailyMed |
Bioavailability |
78% |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Dapagliflozin/saxagliptin |
Elimination half-life |
12.9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
10mg/5mg |
Pregnancy |
Not recommended |
Brands |
Qtern |
Protein binding |
91% |
PubChem CID |
124219523 |
MedlinePlus |
- |
ChEBI |
- |
ATC code |
A10BD21 |
DrugBank |
- |
KEGG |
D10826 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
Qtern should be taken by mouth once daily in the morning. It can be taken with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed. It should not be crushed, cut, or chewed.
Ingredients
The active ingredients contained in Qtern are Dapagliflozin and Saxagliptin.
Contraindications
Do not take Qtern if you are allergic to dapagliflozin or saxagliptin. Discuss your allergies with your doctor before starting Qtern.
Qtern should not be taken if you have moderate to severe kidney impairment, end-stage renal disease, or if you are on dialysis.
Cautions
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements.
Once you are prescribed and buy Qtern, then Qtern may cause pancreatitis. Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or if you have ever had pancreatitis, gallstones, or high triglycerides. Seek medical care right away if you develop severe stomach pain that persists.
Qtern may cause heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have heart problems or kidney problems. Seek medical care right away if you have trouble breathing, swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs, rapid weight gain, or unusual tiredness.
This medication may cause dehydration, which can make you feel dizzy or weak. Tell your doctor if you have blood pressure problems, kidney problems, or if you are on a low-salt diet.
Qtern may cause ketoacidosis. Seek medical care right away if you experience nausea, tiredness, vomiting, stomach pain, and trouble breathing.
Qtern may cause kidney problems. Seek medical care right away if you are unable to eat or drink, if you lose liquids, or if you've been in the heat for a long time.
Qtern may cause urinary tract infections. Tell your doctor right away if you experience burning when urinating, frequent urination, the need to urinate immediately, pelvic pain, or blood in your urine.
This medication may cause low blood sugar levels, especially if you take another medicine that can cause low blood sugar. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar such as sweating, nervousness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, hunger, headache, confusion, mood changes, irritability, vision changes, or weakness. Treat your low blood sugar as your doctor has instructed.
Qtern may cause bacterial skin infections around the genitals. Seek medical care right away if you develop a fever, weakness, or tiredness and if you have skin tenderness, swelling, or redness.
This medication may cause vaginal yeast infections. Tell your doctor if you develop vaginal odor, discharge, or itching.
Qtern may cause penile yeast infections. Tell your doctor if you develop penile redness, itching, or swelling, rash, odorous discharge, or pain.
Qtern may cause joint pain. Tell your doctor if you develop severe pain in your joints.
Qtern may cause a skin reaction called bullous pemphigoid. Seek medical care right away if you develop skin blisters or breakdown.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and your doctor should know if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Side Effects
Qtern can cause side effects. The most common include:
- Abnormal amounts of fats in the blood
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urinary tract infection
References:
- Qtern Prescribing Information. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; 2020.
- Important Safety Information for Qtern. Accessed January 4, 2022.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13233