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Compare Onglyza vs. Nesina

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Saxagliptin (Onglyza) and alogliptin (Nesina) are both medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes and belong to the same drug class, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Saxagliptin is taken once daily and is available in a generic form, while alogliptin is also taken once daily and has a lower-cost generic option. Saxagliptin has been associated with a higher risk of heart failure in certain individuals, whereas alogliptin may also raise the risk of heart failure, especially in those with recent acute coronary syndrome. Both medications can cause side effects like headaches and upper respiratory tract infections, but saxagliptin is more likely to cause urinary tract infections, while alogliptin can cause symptoms of the common cold. Both medications are not first-choice treatments for Type 2 diabetes, are not approved for Type 1 diabetes, and need dose adjustment for kidney problems.

  • Saxagliptin (Onglyza)
    Alogliptin (Nesina)
  • Saxagliptin (Onglyza)
    Alogliptin (Nesina)

  • Summary of Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Summary for DPP-4 inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Saxagliptin (Onglyza) is an add-on medication to exercise and a balanced, nutritious diet to improve blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the drug class called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The saxagliptin (Onglyza) dosage is taken by mouth once daily. Possible side effects include certain infections and headaches. The brand name, Onglyza, is no longer available. But the lower-cost generic version is still available.

    Summary for DDP-4 inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Alogliptin (Nesina) is a medication that treats Type 2 diabetes. It's added to diet and exercise to help lower your blood sugar levels. But it isn't a first-choice treatment for this condition. Alogliptin (Nesina) is typically taken by mouth once a day. Some people may experience certain side effects, such as headaches or symptoms of the common cold (e.g., sore throat or runny nose), after starting this medication.

  • Indications of Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Indications for
    •Type 2 diabetes in adults
    Indications for
    •Type 2 diabetes

  • Pros and Cons of Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Pros and Const for DPP-4 inhibitor
    Pros
    •Taken once daily (with or without food)
    •Less likely to cause weight gain (compared to some other diabetes medications)
    •Very low risk of causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when it's taken by itself
    Cons
    •Doesn't lower A1C and blood sugar levels as well as other diabetes medications
    •Might raise risk of hospitalization due to heart failure in certain people
    •Not for treating Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis
    Pros and Const for DDP-4 inhibitor
    Pros
    •Taken once daily by mouth
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Is available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Dose may change if you have kidney problems, while other similar medications, like Tradjenta (linagliptin), don't need dose changes
    •Not a first-choice treatment for Type 2 diabetes
    •Isn’t approved for Type 1 diabetes

  • Common Side Effects of Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (8%)
    •Urinary tract infection (UTI; 7%)
    •Headache (7%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (5%)
    •Common cold (5%)
    •Headache (4%)

  • Warnings of Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Common Side Effects for
    •Pancreas problems
    •Heart failure
    •Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
    •Joint pain
    •Large blisters
    •Risk of allergic reaction
    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart failure
    •Severe joint pain
    •Inflammation of the pancreas
    •Liver problems
    •Severe itching rash

  • Prices with our coupons for Onglyza vs. Nesina

    Learn more about Saxagliptin
    Learn more about Alogliptin

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