Istavel

Istavel Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Istavel is a brand name. Its generic name is Sitagliptin.

Introduction

Istavel is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is a member of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor class of drugs and works by increasing levels of active incretins in the body, leading to an increase in insulin secretion.

Uses

Istavel is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is used in combination with other diabetes medicines to improve glycemic control in adults when diet and exercise alone are not enough.

Mechanism of Action

Istavel works by targeting an enzyme called DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4). It blocks the activity of this enzyme, resulting in an increase of two hormones in the body called incretins, which stimulate the release of insulin.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Istavel generally begins to work in about 1 week and is usually taken once a day. After about 3-4 weeks its full effect should be noticed. However, the exact time it takes to work can vary from person to person.

Absorption

Istavel is rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration with an average bioavailability of 87%. Maximum concentration (Cmax) is achieved in 1.5-2.5 hours.

Route of Elimination

Istavel is rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver and is primarily excreted by the kidneys with two metabolites being present in the urine. Less than 1% of the drug is eliminated unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended dose of Istavel is 100 mg taken once daily. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. Your doctor may start you on a lower dose of Istavel if needed.

Administration

Istavel should be taken orally with or without food. It is important to take it once daily at the same time each day to get the most benefit from it.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Istavel are headache, upper respiratory tract infection, nausea, nasopharyngitis, and increased creatinine levels. Other less common side effects include diarrhea, dizziness, and rash.

Toxicity

High doses of Istavel can lead to hypotension, hyperglycemia, and pancreatitis. The most severe adverse effects are anaphylaxis and angioedema.

Precautions

Istavel should be used with caution in persons with renal impairment since renal elimination is a major route of elimination for this drug. It should also be used with caution in those with hepatic impairment.

Interactions

Istavel may interact with other medications, including some diuretics, some antibiotics, some antidepressants, some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), some antifungals, and some medications used to treat HIV/AIDs.

Disease Interactions

Istavel may interact with certain diseases, including kidney disease, liver disease, and congestive heart failure. It should be used with caution in these patients.

Drug Interactions

Istavel may interact with other drugs, including certain diuretics, antibiotics, antidepressants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antifungals, and drugs used to treat HIV/AIDS. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting Istavel.

Food Interactions

Istavel may interact with certain foods and drinks, including high-fat foods and alcoholic beverages. It is important to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Istavel, since this can increase the risk of side effects.

Pregnancy Use

Istavel is not recommended for use during pregnancy since its safety in this population has not been established. The use of sitagliptin is not recommended in women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Lactation Use

Istavel is not recommended for use during breastfeeding since its safety in this population has not been established. The use of sitagliptin is not recommended in women who are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of acute overdose with sitagliptin include hypoglycemia, hypotension, and tachycardia. Patients should be monitored for these symptoms and treated accordingly.

Contraindication

Istavel is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of the product. It is also contraindicated in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Use Direction

Istavel should be taken as directed by your doctor. It should be taken orally with or without food, once daily at the same time each day. Do not change your dose or stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.

Storage Condition

Istavel should be stored at room temperature, in a light resistant container. Keep the container tightly closed and do not store it in moist, wet, or damp conditions.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for sitagliptin is approximately 16 L. There is a large range in the volume of distribution, with some estimates as high as 26 L.

Half Life

The average half-life of sitagliptin is estimated to be around 12-14 hours. This means that the drug is metabolized and eliminated from the body within this time frame.

Clearance

The estimated clearance of sitagliptin is 8.3 L/h. This indicates that the drug is eliminated from the body at a moderate rate.

Here you find in details version of Istavel

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Istavel

What is Istavel?

Istavel is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, or dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, which work to regulate the body's production of insulin.

How does Istavel work?

Istavel works by inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), an enzyme involved in controlling the amount of insulin your body produces. By blocking the action of this enzyme, Istavel helps to stimulate the production of insulin in response to high glucose levels, helping to keep blood glucose levels in the normal range.

Is Istavel a generic drug?

No, Istavel is a brand name medication. Its generic name is Januvia.

What are the side effects of Istavel?

Possible side effects of Istavel include headache, runny nose, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. If you experience serious side effects, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling of the limbs, nausea, vomiting, or rapid weight gain, contact your doctor immediately.

How much does Istavel cost?

The cost of Istavel will vary depending on the pharmacy where you fill your prescription. To find the lowest price, you can use an online drug price comparison tool.

Does Istavel help with weight loss?

No, Istavel is not intended for weight loss. Although it may lead to some modest weight loss in some patients, this is not the main purpose of taking Istavel.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Istavel?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Istavel. Alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar, so it is best to avoid alcohol while on this medication.

What other medications can I take with Istavel?

You should check with your doctor before taking any other medications while taking Istavel. Some medications, such as insulin and some diuretics, should not be taken with Istavel.

How long does it take for Istavel to start working?

Istavel is a relatively fast-acting medication, typically taking effect within one to two weeks. However, it may take up to two months to reach its maximum effect.

Should I take Istavel in the morning or evening?

It is generally recommended to take Istavel once daily in the morning, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Istavel?

If you miss a dose of Istavel, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of Istavel at the same time.

What if I take too much Istavel?

If you take too much Istavel, contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention right away. Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, and low blood sugar.

Does Istavel lower my cholesterol?

Yes, Istavel has been shown to reduce levels of triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood) and LDL-cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). Studies have also shown that Istavel may reduce levels of HDL-cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol) in some cases.

Does Istavel cause weight gain?

No, Istavel has not been shown to cause weight gain. In fact, some patients may experience modest weight loss while taking this medication.

Can I take Istavel if I’m pregnant?

No, Istavel is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or may become pregnant during treatment.

Can children take Istavel?

No, Istavel is not approved for use in children. Talk with your child’s doctor before taking this medication if your child is under 18 years of age.

Does Istavel cause hypoglycemia?

Yes, Istavel may cause hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. If you experience signs of low blood sugar, such as sweating, dizziness, nausea, or confusion, contact your doctor right away.

Can I take Istavel with insulin?

Yes, you can take Istavel with insulin. However, make sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, as high doses of insulin may increase your risk of hypoglycemia.

Can I take Istavel with metformin?

Yes, Istavel can be taken with metformin. However, your doctor may recommend a lower dose of metformin when taken with Istavel.

How long does Istavel stay in your system?

Istavel can stay in your system for up to 24 hours. It can take up to five days to completely clear from your body.

Can I take other diabetes meds while taking Istavel?

Yes, you can take other medications for diabetes while taking Istavel. However, make sure to talk to your doctor first to make sure these medications can be safely taken together.

Will Istavel help to reduce HbA1c?

Yes, Istavel has been shown to reduce Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, which is a marker for long-term blood glucose levels. In clinical trials, patients taking Istavel had an average decrease in HbA1c of 0.6% to 1.5%.

Is Istavel a blood thinner?

No, Istavel is not a blood thinner. In fact, it is not known to affect the clotting of the blood.

Does Istavel cause fatigue?

Yes, fatigue is a possible side effect of Istavel. If you experience fatigue or other symptoms while taking Istavel, contact your doctor.

Can I take Istavel if I have kidney disease?

Yes, Istavel can be taken by patients with kidney disease. In these patients, it is recommended to start with a lower dose of Istavel and to monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Can I take Istavel if I have liver disease?

Yes, Istavel can be taken by patients with liver disease. However, it is recommended to start with a lower dose of Istavel and to monitor liver function tests closely.

How long can I safely take Istavel?

You can safely take Istavel for as long as your doctor recommends. However, if you experience any side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Do I need to have regular blood tests while taking Istavel?

Yes, it is important to have regular blood tests while taking Istavel. These tests help your doctor to monitor your response to treatment and check for any side effects.

Can I donate blood while taking Istavel?

No, you should not donate blood while taking Istavel. Tell your doctor if you are on this medication before donating blood.

Can Istavel cause dehydration?

Yes, Istavel may cause dehydration, especially in people who drink alcohol or caffeinated drinks. Make sure to drink plenty of water while taking Istavel.

Can I take Istavel if I’m breastfeeding?

No, Istavel is not recommended for use while breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Can I take other diabetes medications with Istavel?

Yes, you can take other diabetes medications with Istavel. However, make sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, as some of them may interact with Istavel.

Can I take vitamin supplements with Istavel?

Yes, it is safe to take vitamin supplements with Istavel. However, make sure to tell your doctor about all the supplements you are taking, as some of them may interact with this medication.

Does Istavel cause mood swings?

Yes, mood swings are a possible side effect of Istavel. If you experience mood swings while taking this medication, contact your doctor.

Does taking Istavel cause erectile dysfunction?

No, Istavel has not been shown to cause erectile dysfunction. However, it is possible that it may worsen existing erectile dysfunction.

Can Istavel cause kidney damage?

No, Istavel has not been shown to cause kidney damage in clinical studies. However, patients with kidney disease should talk with their doctor before taking this medication.

Does Istavel raise blood pressure?

No, Istavel has not been shown to raise blood pressure in clinical studies. However, high blood pressure is a possible side effect of this medication.

Can I take Istavel if I have heart disease?

Yes, Istavel can be taken by patients with heart disease. However, make sure to tell your doctor if you have any history of heart problems before taking this medication.

Can I take Istavel if I’m on dialysis?

Yes, Istavel can be taken by patients who are on dialysis. However, make sure to tell your doctor if you are on dialysis before taking this medication.

Can Istavel make skin rash worse?

Yes, Istavel may make a skin rash worse. If you experience a rash or other skin reaction while taking this medication, contact your doctor.