Can I take Alogliptin and Rybelsus together?

Por qué sucede esto

Both drugs target the 'incretin' system. Alogliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) prevents the breakdown of natural hormones that lower blood sugar, while Rybelsus (a GLP-1 receptor agonist) mimics those same hormones. Using both is like 'doubling up' on the same biological process, which can lead to an over-correction of blood sugar levels.

You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking these together. Clinical guidelines usually recommend stopping the DPP-4 inhibitor (alogliptin) when starting a GLP-1 medicine like Rybelsus. If your doctor has specifically told you to take both, be very alert for signs of low blood sugar, such as feeling shaky, sweaty, dizzy, or hungry.

Pancreatitis

Stop taking these medicines and seek immediate medical help if you develop severe, persistent stomach pain which may reach through to your back. These drugs are linked to a risk of inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis).

Retinopatía diabética

If you have a history of diabetic eye problems, you must have regular eye checks. Rapid improvement in blood sugar levels with Rybelsus can lead to a temporary worsening of diabetic retinopathy.

Insuficiencia cardíaca

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience increasing shortness of breath, tiredness, or swelling of the ankles, as alogliptin may increase the risk of heart failure.

Food, drink, and other oral medicines

Rybelsus must be taken on an empty stomach with a small sip of plain water (no more than 120ml). You must wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking anything else, or taking other oral medicines. If you eat or drink too soon, the medicine will not be absorbed properly and will not work.

Alcohol

While there is no direct chemical interaction, alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Excessive drinking can also increase the risk of pancreatitis, a rare but serious side effect associated with these types of diabetes medications.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Verificador de Interacciones de Medicamentos helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Descargo de responsabilidad

Esta información es solo para fines educativos generales y no debe considerarse como un sustituto del consejo médico profesional. Siempre consulte a su médico de cabecera, farmacéutico u otro profesional de la salud calificado antes de tomar decisiones sobre sus medicamentos. Las circunstancias individuales pueden variar, y solo un profesional de la salud que conozca su historial médico puede proporcionar orientación personalizada.