Onglyza contains saxagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor for adults with type 2 diabetes. Kidney function and interactions can affect the dose. Its prescribing information also includes a heart-failure warning.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | saxagliptin |
| Medicine class | DPP-4 inhibitor |
| Forms and strengths | Oral tablets: 2.5 and 5 mg |
An oral incretin-related medicine
Saxagliptin inhibits DPP-4, affecting incretin hormones involved in glucose-dependent insulin and glucagon regulation. The US label covers adults with type 2 diabetes alongside diet and exercise. It is not insulin, and its mechanism should not be confused with directly activating the GLP-1 receptor.
Source: [1]
Two strengths with specific reasons
Onglyza tablets contain 2.5 or 5 mg and are used once daily. The lower dose is required in defined kidney impairment and with strong CYP3A4/5 inhibitors. A strength change can therefore follow a kidney or interaction review rather than a change in the severity of diabetes.
Source: [1]
Heart failure deserves a direct discussion
The prescribing information warns about heart failure. People with heart-failure risk factors need an individualized benefit-risk assessment and monitoring. New breathlessness, swelling or rapid weight gain should prompt contact with the clinical team rather than being treated as an ordinary tablet side effect.
Source: [1]
Other labeled risks
Pancreatitis, serious hypersensitivity, severe joint pain and bullous pemphigoid are included in the warnings. Hypoglycemia is more relevant with insulin or insulin-releasing medicines. Review new prescriptions for interactions even when the Onglyza dose has been stable.
Source: [1]
Other DPP-4 inhibitors
Januvia and Tradjenta belong to the same medicine class as Onglyza, but their ingredients, kidney-dose adjustments and interactions differ. Their doses cannot be matched milligram for milligram. A change needs the prescriber’s guidance and the instructions for the new product.
Source: [1]
Questions and answers
Is Onglyza the same as Januvia?
No. Onglyza contains saxagliptin; Januvia contains sitagliptin.
Why might Onglyza be prescribed at 2.5 mg?
The label uses that dose for defined kidney impairment and certain strong interacting medicines.
Does Onglyza have a heart-failure warning?
Yes. Risk factors and new symptoms should be discussed with the clinical team.
Related reading
Sources
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026