Description: Sitagliptin + Metformin XR is a combination medication that contains two active ingredients: sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin, a biguanide. The “XR” stands for extended-release, meaning the metformin component is released slowly over time. This combination is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Indication: This medication is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus when treatment with both sitagliptin and metformin is appropriate. It is not for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Mechanism of Action:

• Sitagliptin: This drug works by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4. This inhibition increases the levels of incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) in the body. Incretins are released after a meal and stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin and decrease the release of glucagon. This helps to lower blood glucose levels.
• Metformin: This drug primarily works by reducing glucose production in the liver (hepatic gluconeogenesis) and by increasing the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin, which helps them take up more glucose from the blood. It also reduces glucose absorption from the intestine.