Description

Description

Itaglip Plus XR (50mg/500mg) is a prescription anti-diabetic medicine manufactured by Sami Pharmaceuticals, combining Sitagliptin Phosphate with Metformin Hydrochloride in an extended-release tablet designed for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This XR formulation differs from the standard-release Itaglip Plus tablets by allowing the Metformin component to be released gradually over an extended period, supporting steadier blood sugar control throughout the day while generally reducing the gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with immediate-release Metformin. Sitagliptin belongs to a class of medicines known as DPP-4 inhibitors, working by blocking the breakdown of the body’s natural incretin hormones, which are released after eating and help stimulate insulin production in response to rising blood glucose. Metformin, a long-established first-line diabetes medicine, works by inhibiting the liver’s production of glucose, interfering with the energy-generating processes within liver cells that would otherwise release excess sugar into the bloodstream. Together, these two mechanisms offer more comprehensive blood sugar control, with the extended-release format offering the added convenience of once-daily dosing. This 50mg/500mg strength represents the lower starting dose in the Itaglip Plus XR range. Each pack contains 14 tablets.

Ingredients

Each Itaglip Plus XR (50mg/500mg) tablet contains Sitagliptin Phosphate equivalent to 50mg of Sitagliptin, combined with 500mg of Metformin Hydrochloride in extended-release form. The tablet also contains standard pharmaceutical excipients that support its extended-release mechanism and overall stability. Patients with a known allergy to either active ingredient, or to any inactive component, should avoid this medicine and should review the enclosed leaflet or consult a pharmacist regarding other known sensitivities.

Dosage Form

Itaglip Plus XR (50mg/500mg) is supplied as an oral, extended-release, film-coated tablet designed to release its active ingredients gradually over time. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and should not be crushed, split, or chewed, as doing so could disrupt its controlled-release mechanism. Tablets are packaged within protective blister strips inside an outer carton, with this pack containing a total of 14 tablets.

Uses

Itaglip Plus XR (50mg/500mg) is used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are inadequately controlled on Metformin alone, or who are already being treated with the combination of Sitagliptin and Metformin. It is generally used as a starting dose within the XR range for patients transitioning to the extended-release formulation or beginning combination therapy at a lower Metformin strength. This medicine is not suitable for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis and should only be used under a physician’s supervision.

How To Use

Itaglip Plus XR is typically taken once daily with the evening meal, exactly as directed by the prescribing doctor, since the extended-release formulation is designed for once-daily rather than twice-daily dosing. The tablet should always be swallowed whole and never split, crushed, or chewed, as this would interfere with the gradual release of Metformin. When starting this medicine, doses are often escalated gradually to help minimize gastrointestinal side effects, and treatment should be taken consistently as part of an ongoing diabetes management plan that includes regular blood sugar monitoring.

Side Effects

Commonly reported side effects of Itaglip Plus XR include nausea, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, and reduced appetite, particularly during the initial period of treatment or following a dose increase, though the extended-release formulation is generally associated with better gastrointestinal tolerability than immediate-release combinations. A rare but serious risk associated with the Metformin component is a condition called lactic acidosis, which can cause symptoms such as unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, or unusual tiredness, and requires immediate emergency medical attention — this risk is notably increased with alcohol intoxication, particularly in cases of fasting, malnutrition, or liver impairment. Less commonly, joint pain, skin reactions, or signs of pancreatitis, such as persistent and severe abdominal pain, have been reported with the Sitagliptin component. Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including facial swelling or difficulty breathing, also require immediate medical care.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Itaglip Plus XR is contraindicated during pregnancy, as blood sugar control during this period is typically managed with insulin rather than oral diabetes medicines, given the more established safety profile of insulin in this setting. Women who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or who discover they are pregnant while taking this medicine should inform their doctor immediately so their treatment plan can be reassessed. Regarding breastfeeding, this medicine is generally not recommended, as it isn’t well established whether these active ingredients pass into breast milk in meaningful amounts, and a doctor should be consulted to explore suitable alternatives.

Storage Instructions

Itaglip Plus XR tablets should be stored at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight, excess heat, and moisture. Tablets should remain in their original blister packaging until needed, and the medicine should be stored securely out of reach and sight of children.

FAQs

How is Itaglip Plus XR different from standard Itaglip Plus?
The XR formulation releases Metformin gradually over time, allowing for once-daily dosing and generally better stomach tolerability compared to the twice-daily standard-release version.
Can the tablet be split or crushed?
No, it should always be swallowed whole, as splitting or crushing disrupts the extended-release mechanism.
Why should iodinated contrast dye procedures be discussed with a doctor?
Sitagliptin and Metformin may need to be temporarily stopped before or during certain imaging procedures involving contrast dye, due to kidney-related risk factors.
Is alcohol a concern with this medicine?
Yes, alcohol intoxication increases the risk of lactic acidosis, particularly with fasting, malnutrition, or liver impairment, so alcohol intake should be discussed with a doctor.

Disclaimer

Always use this medicine strictly according to your doctor’s instructions and prescribed dosage.