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)

• Headache

• Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms (cold)

Serious / less common:

• 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.