What Is Istavel 50 mg?
Istavel 50 mg is a brand name for the medication sitagliptin, an oral antidiabetic drug primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Istavel 50 is manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Sun Pharmaceutical Industries in some regions) and belongs to the class of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors.
Active Ingredient: Sitagliptin (50 mg)
Drug Class: DPP-4 (Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4) inhibitor
Manufacturer: Sun Pharma
Use: Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, in combination with diet and exercise
How It Works
Sitagliptin inhibits the DPP-4 enzyme, which breaks down incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP). This prolongs their action, leading to:
- Increased insulin release from the pancreas.
- Reduced glucose production in the liver.
- Better blood sugar regulation post-meal.
Sitagliptin blocks the DPP-4 enzyme, increasing levels of incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP).
These hormones increase insulin release (especially after meals) and decrease glucagon release, lowering blood sugar.
How to Take It (Dosage & Administration)
Typical Dose: 50 mg once daily (but your doctor may adjust)
Can be taken with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew or crush.
Take at the same time each day for consistent effect.
Dosage and Usage
- Standard Dose: 50 mg or 100 mg once daily, often taken with or without food. Your doctor may adjust based on kidney function (e.g., lower dose for renal impairment).
- Administration: Oral tablet. It’s not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Combination Therapy: Frequently prescribed with metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin for better control.
Side Effects
Common side effects:
-
Nasopharyngitis (sore throat / nasal inflammation)
-
Hypoglycemia (especially if used with other diabetes meds)
-
Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms (cold)
Serious / less common:
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Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) risk — report abdominal pain.
-
Hypersensitivity reactions (allergy) — rare but possible.
Precautions & Warnings
Kidney Function: Use with caution in people with kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Gallbladder / Pancreas: Be careful if you have a history of gallstones or pancreatitis.
Type 1 Diabetes / Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Istavel should not be used for type 1 diabetes.
Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol — Istavel 50 can affect blood sugar.
Pregnancy / Breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed, and after a doctor’s assessment.
Older Adults: Use with caution if you’re older, especially with reduced kidney function.
Storage
Store below 25°C, in a cool and dry place.
Keep away from children.
Bottom Line
Istavel 50 mg is a once-daily DPP-4 inhibitor (sitagliptin) used to manage type 2 diabetes. Istavel 50 helps improve insulin response and lower blood sugar, especially after meals.
However, it’s not a cure — lifestyle changes (diet + exercise) remain crucial. Also, be aware of side effects like low blood sugar, infections, and risks if you have kidney or pancreatic issues.
FAQs
Can I skip my dose?
If you miss a dose and it’s not too far from your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up.
Will I gain weight on Istavel?
Sitagliptin is generally weight-neutral — it doesn’t typically cause weight gain.
How long does it take to work?
Effects on blood sugar are gradual. Your doctor may monitor HbA1c over weeks.
Can I drive while taking this?
Be careful: if you experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), it may impair driving.
Can I take other diabetes medicines with Istavel?
Yes, but only as advised by your doctor; combining with insulin or sulfonylureas increases hypoglycemia risk.
Is long-term use safe?
Yes, sitagliptin is generally used for long-term management. But periodic monitoring (kidney, blood sugar) is recommended.
