Nesina (Alogliptin (As Benzoate))
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Nesina Used For?
Nesina is a medication that helps manage blood sugar levels in adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
How It Works
Nesina works by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4, which leads to increased levels of incretin hormones, helping to lower blood sugar levels after meals.
Good to know: Nesina is unlikely to cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taken alone.
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How to Take Nesina
Nesina should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is one 25 mg tablet taken once daily. If you have kidney issues, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Headache
- Cold-like symptoms
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing)
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (severe skin reaction)
- Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
- Liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine)
- Hypoglycemia (trembling, sweating, confusion)
Impulse Control Issues
No specific information about impulse control issues was mentioned.
Important Warnings
There are specific warnings and precautions to consider when using Nesina.
Who Should Not Take Nesina
Do not use Nesina if you have a known allergy to alogliptin or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney problems, liver disease, heart failure, or pancreatic disease.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Nesina is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Nesina and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: No grapefruit interaction mentioned.
- Sulphonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glimepiride, glibenclamide)
- Insulin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating vehicles or machinery while taking Nesina.
Alcohol
Alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar, so be careful when drinking.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be alert when driving or using machinery until you know how Nesina affects you, as it may cause dizziness.
Temperature Regulation
No specific temperature regulation warnings mentioned.
Storage
Store Nesina in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat, and keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nesina begins to lower blood sugar levels after meals, but the exact time can vary by individual.
You can take Nesina with or without food.
Nesina is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Nesina, as it is important to manage your blood sugar levels.
Be cautious with alcohol, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Nesina.
Elderly patients should use Nesina with caution, especially those with dementia.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.