Ertugliflozin: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Diabetes Benefits

Summary or Key Points

Ertugliflozin is a prescription medication used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It may also provide additional benefits, such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and supporting kidney function. Ertugliflozin works by assisting the kidneys in removing excess sugar through urine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. If you need personalized advice, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Steglatro (Ertugliflozin)

The generic name refers to the chemical name of the active ingredient in the medication, which is listed in parentheses after the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Ertugliflozin belongs to a class of medications known as Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) Inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed to help control blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Other medications in this category include:

1. Empagliflozin (Jardiance)
2. Dapagliflozin (Farxiga)
3. Canagliflozin (Invokana)

Ertugliflozin Dosage

Ertugliflozin is prescribed to treat various conditions in adults. It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dosage. For further guidance, you can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers.

Ertugliflozin for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily in the morning.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily if additional blood sugar control is needed.

Ertugliflozin for Cardiovascular Disease

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily based on your healthcare provider’s recommendation.

Ertugliflozin for Chronic Kidney Disease

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily, depending on kidney function and your healthcare provider’s advice.

Ertugliflozin for Obesity

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily, depending on weight loss goals and your healthcare provider’s guidance.

Ertugliflozin for Hypertension

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily if additional blood pressure control is required.

Ertugliflozin for Metabolic Syndrome

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily if needed for improved metabolic control.

Ertugliflozin for Dyslipidemia

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily, depending on cholesterol levels and your healthcare provider’s advice.

Ertugliflozin for Insulin Resistance

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily if needed to improve insulin sensitivity.

Ertugliflozin for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily, depending on liver function and your healthcare provider’s recommendation.

Ertugliflozin for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Initial Dose: 5 mg taken orally once daily.

Maintenance Dose: May be increased to 15 mg once daily if needed for improved hormonal balance and metabolic control.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Ertugliflozin is available in tablet form in the following strengths:

1. 5 mg tablets
2. 15 mg tablets

Contraindications for Ertugliflozin

A contraindication is a specific condition or situation where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the following conditions, you should avoid taking Ertugliflozin, as it may lead to serious side effects or complications.

1. Severe Kidney Disease: Ertugliflozin is primarily eliminated through the kidneys. If your kidneys are not functioning properly, the drug may not be cleared from your body effectively, increasing the risk of side effects.
2. End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Dialysis: Patients with ESRD or those undergoing dialysis should not take Ertugliflozin, as the medication will not work effectively and may cause harm.
3. Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): Ertugliflozin can increase the risk of ketoacidosis, a serious condition where the body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with a history of DKA.
4. Severe Liver Disease: If you have severe liver disease, your body may not metabolize Ertugliflozin properly, leading to potentially toxic levels of the drug in your system.
5. Hypersensitivity to Ertugliflozin: If you have experienced an allergic reaction to Ertugliflozin or any of its components, you should not take this medication.

Drug-to-Drug Interactions

Ertugliflozin can interact with other medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of either drug. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

1. Diuretics (Water Pills): Medications such as furosemide (Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) can increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure when taken with Ertugliflozin.
2. Insulin or Insulin Secretagogues: Drugs like glipizide (Glucotrol) or insulin can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when used alongside Ertugliflozin.
3. Rifampin (Rifadin): This antibiotic can reduce the effectiveness of Ertugliflozin by speeding up how quickly it is broken down in the body.
4. Phenobarbital (Luminal): This medication can also reduce the effectiveness of Ertugliflozin by accelerating its metabolism.
5. Digoxin (Lanoxin): Ertugliflozin may increase the levels of digoxin in your blood, which could lead to toxicity.

Ertugliflozin in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Ertugliflozin when pregnant?

Currently, there is limited information regarding the safety of Ertugliflozin during pregnancy. Animal studies have indicated potential risks to the developing fetus, particularly during the second and third trimesters. For this reason, Ertugliflozin is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to discuss alternative treatments for managing your blood sugar levels.

Ertugliflozin while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Ertugliflozin while breastfeeding?

It is not yet known whether Ertugliflozin passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, it is typically advised to avoid using Ertugliflozin while breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, speak with your healthcare provider about safer alternatives for managing diabetes during this time.

Estimated Cost of Ertugliflozin Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Ertugliflozin (Steglatro) without insurance ranges from $300 to $400, depending on the pharmacy. However, using a GoodRx coupon can lower the price to approximately $250 to $300. Be sure to explore available discounts and discuss cost-saving options with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Possible Alternatives to Ertugliflozin

If Ertugliflozin is not the right option for you, there are several other treatments available. Below are some alternatives for conditions commonly treated with Ertugliflozin. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss these options further.

1. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Alternatives include metformin, sulfonylureas, GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., liraglutide), or lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.
2. Cardiovascular Disease: Statins, ACE inhibitors, or lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and regular physical activity can help manage cardiovascular risk.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease: ACE inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers) are often prescribed to protect kidney function. Dietary adjustments may also be beneficial.
4. Obesity: Medications like orlistat (Alli) or GLP-1 receptor agonists, combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise, can support weight loss efforts.
5. Hypertension: Medications such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or calcium channel blockers, along with lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, can help control blood pressure.
6. Metabolic Syndrome: Lifestyle changes, including weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet, are key to managing metabolic syndrome.
7. Dyslipidemia: Statins or fibrates are commonly used to manage cholesterol levels. Dietary changes, such as reducing saturated fats, can also be helpful.
8. Insulin Resistance: Metformin is often used to improve insulin sensitivity. Weight loss and regular physical activity are also effective strategies.
9. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Weight loss, dietary changes, and regular exercise are the primary treatments for NAFLD.
10. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Metformin, hormonal contraceptives, and lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and exercise, can help manage PCOS symptoms.

Recent Updates on Ertugliflozin Research

Recent studies continue to explore the benefits of Ertugliflozin, particularly for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Ertugliflozin significantly reduced the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating the potential benefits of Ertugliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease, with early results suggesting it may help slow the progression of kidney damage.

As more research becomes available, staying informed about the latest findings is essential. If you have questions about how these updates may affect your treatment plan, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.

James Kingsley

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