Antidiabetic (combination of a DPP-4 inhibitor and Biguanide)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination diabetes tablet that contains two medicines — Sitagliptin and Metformin — working together to lower blood sugar. Metformin reduces the amount of sugar your liver releases and helps your body use insulin better, while Sitagliptin helps your body produce more insulin after meals and reduces excess sugar production.
Inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme to increase incretin levels and enhance insulin secretion, while simultaneously inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis and improving insulin sensitivity through AMP-activated protein kinase activation.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Usually taken twice daily with meals — one tablet in the morning and one in the evening. Always take it with food to reduce stomach upset and help the medicine work better. Your doctor will decide the right strength based on your current blood sugar level. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew, especially the extended-release (ER) types like Instadip M-ER.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but only if it is close to your next mealtime. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.
Only buy this medicine from licensed pharmacies — do not purchase from roadside sellers or open markets as fake diabetes drugs are common in Nigeria. Do not stop taking this medicine because you feel fine; diabetes is a long-term condition that needs continuous management. Check your blood sugar regularly as your doctor advises, and always carry a small snack in case your sugar drops too low.
Avoid drinking alcohol while on this medicine as it increases the risk of a dangerous condition called lactic acidosis and can cause your blood sugar to drop too low. Be careful when taking this alongside other diabetes medicines like insulin or glimepiride as it may cause your sugar to drop dangerously low. Inform your doctor if you are taking any heart or blood pressure medicines, especially diuretics (water tablets).
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Metformin with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor immediately for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the tablets in their original pack and far out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Metformin Hydrochloride; Sitagliptin?
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