Type 2 diabetes can be challenging, especially when lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to keep blood sugar in a safe range. That is why treatments like Ertugliflozin, also known as Steglatro, have become so important. Unlike medications that rely heavily on insulin, ertugliflozin tablets work with the kidneys to help remove extra glucose from the body. It is a simple yet effective way to help stabilize blood sugar levels naturally.  Patients often notice that ertugliflozin makes daily management feel a bit easier. Beyond helping with glucose control, it may support weight management and provide added protection for the heart and kidneys (key concerns for anyone living with diabetes). And with its convenient once-daily dosing, it does not add complexity to a routine that is already full of responsibilities.  For adults managing type 2 diabetes, ertugliflozin tablets are not just another medication. Instead, it is a powerful medication that empowers them to take control of their health and feel more confident in their day-to-day lives.   

What is Ertugliflozin? 

Ertugliflozin is a medication specifically designed to help adults manage type 2 diabetes (T2D) by targeting the way the body handles sugar. It belongs to a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, which work in a unique and effective way.    ertugliflozin for diabetes   Inside the kidneys, there is a protein called SGLT2 that plays an important role in reabsorbing glucose from the urine back into the bloodstream. In people with type 2 diabetes, this process can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels. Ertugliflozin tablets work by blocking the SGLT2 protein, which prevents the kidneys from reabsorbing excess glucose. Instead, the extra sugar is excreted through urine.  This mechanism helps lower blood glucose levels naturally, without relying solely on insulin. Beyond helping control blood sugar, ertugliflozin may also support weight management, heart health, and kidney function, making it a valuable option in comprehensive diabetes care. Its once-daily dosing makes it convenient for adults looking for a treatment that fits smoothly into their everyday routine.  Other ertugliflozin uses: Beyond diabetes management, ertugliflozin has shown promising effects in cardiovascular health, helping to reduce the risk of heart failure and other heart-related complications in patients with type 2 diabetes.   

Ertugliflozin’s Clinical Trials 

Merck & Co., Inc., in collaboration with Pfizer Inc. have announced the results of two phase III clinical trials of ERTU, namely, VERTIS Mono and VERTIS Factorial. The results of these trials were recently presented at the American Diabetes Association’s 76th Scientific Sessions (ADA 2016) held at New Orleans from June 10-14, 2016. The VERTIS Mono is a 52-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of ERTU compared with placebo in patients with T2DM and inadequate glycemic control on diet and exercise (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01958671). At week 26, patients randomized to ERTU 5 mg and 15 mg showed significant A1C reductions of 0.99% and 1.16% respectively, compared to placebo. The study also met its secondary endpoint, showing that significantly greater number of patients taking ERTU 5 mg and 15 mg achieved their A1C treatment goal of less than 7.0% compared to placebo. Overall adverse event rates were comparable across arms while the rate of serious adverse events was low across groups.  A higher incidence of genital mycotic infections was observed in female patients taking either doses of ERTU compared to placebo.   The VERTIS Factorial trial evaluated the co-administration of ERTU and the DPP-4 inhibitor JANUVIA® (sitagliptin [SITA]) in a 26-week study (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02099110). Combination therapy of 5 mg or 15 mg ERTU with 100 mg SITA was found to be significantly more effective in reducing A1C compared to either therapy alone. In addition, significantly greater number of patients in the combination treatment arms achieved an A1C goal of less than 7.0% compared to placebo. Combination therapy was also significantly more effective in reducing fasting plasma glucose, body weight, and blood pressure, compared to ERTU and SITA monotherapies.  Adverse events were similar across groups, except for genital mycotic infections, which were observed at a higher rate in the ERTU alone group.   Though current trial data do not indicate any advantage for ERTU monotherapy over other SGLT2 inhibitors, it is believed that a fixed dose combination of ERTU and SITA would provide a more convenient option while intensifying monotherapy with Januvia. Merck and Pfizer plan to submit New Drug Applications to the U.S. FDA for ERTU and the two fixed-dose combination tablets (ERTU plus JANUVIA, and ERTU plus metformin) by the end of 2016.   If you’re living with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes, your voice can help reshape the future of healthcare. At MDForLives, we invite you to join a global community of diabetes patients who are contributing to medical research.Register Now for Diabetes Patient Surveys

Primary Uses of Ertugliflozin

Ertugliflozin is primarily used to help adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) manage their blood sugar levels more effectively, alongside diet and regular exercise. Its flexible mechanism of action allows it to be used in different ways, depending on a patient’s specific needs. 
  • As monotherapy: Ertugliflozin can be prescribed on its own when metformin is not suitable, such as in cases of intolerance or medical contraindications. In these situations, it provides an effective alternative to help lower blood sugar while supporting overall metabolic health. 
  • In combination therapy: For many adults, controlling blood sugar requires a combination of medications. Ertugliflozin tablets can be used alongside other antidiabetic agents, such as metformin or sitagliptin, to achieve better glycemic control. This combined approach helps target blood sugar through multiple mechanisms, offering more comprehensive management of type 2 diabetes.
 

Common Side Effects of Ertugliflozin 

Ertugliflozin tablets are generally well-tolerated by most adults with type 2 diabetes. But like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential effects helps patients manage them proactively and know when to seek medical advice. Some of the more common ertugliflozin side effects include: 
  • Female genital mycotic infections: These are yeast infections that can occur in women, often presenting with itching, redness, or discharge. They are typically treatable with standard antifungal medications. 
  • Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Because ertugliflozin tablets increase glucose excretion through urine, it can create an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to infections. Early signs include pain or burning during urination and increased frequency. 
  • Increased urination: It is normal to notice more frequent urination, especially in the first few weeks of starting the medication. This happens because ertugliflozin helps remove extra glucose from the body through urine. 
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure): Some people may experience a drop in blood pressure, which can cause lightheadedness or dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly. Staying hydrated and monitoring blood pressure can help minimize this effect. 
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness: This can occur due to increased urination or changes in blood pressure. Patients are advised to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions and report persistent symptoms to their healthcare provider. 
While rare, serious ertugliflozin side effects can also occur, including: 
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA): A potentially life-threatening condition that may develop even with normal blood sugar levels in some cases. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and rapid breathing. 
  • Kidney problems: In certain individuals, especially those with pre-existing kidney conditions, ertugliflozin can affect kidney function. Regular monitoring of kidney health is recommended. 
Most ertugliflozin side effects are manageable, and your healthcare provider can guide strategies to reduce risk. Overall, for many adults with type 2 diabetes, the benefits of ertugliflozin tablets in blood sugar control, cardiovascular support, and kidney health outweigh these potential side effects when used appropriately.   

Mechanism of Action

Ertugliflozin works in a clever and targeted way to help manage type 2 diabetes. Its primary action focuses on a protein in the kidneys called SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter 2). Normally, this protein acts like a “recycling system,” reabsorbing glucose from the urine back into the bloodstream. In people with type 2 diabetes, this process can contribute to persistently high blood sugar levels.  Ertugliflozin tablets block the SGLT2 protein, effectively reducing glucose reabsorption. As a result, excess glucose is excreted through the urine rather than remaining in the bloodstream. This not only helps lower blood sugar levels but also reduces the burden on the pancreas, which no longer needs to produce as much insulin to manage high glucose.  Interestingly, this mechanism has benefits beyond just glycemic control. By promoting the excretion of glucose and supporting natural kidney function, ertugliflozin can contribute to cardiovascular health, helping reduce the risk of heart failure in certain patients. It may also help protect the kidneys, particularly in people with diabetes-related kidney concerns.  In simple terms, ertugliflozin tablets work with the body’s natural systems, helping to remove excess sugar while supporting overall metabolic and organ health. Its once-daily oral dosing makes it a convenient and effective tool for adults with type 2 diabetes, combining blood sugar management with potential heart and kidney benefits.   

Ertugliflozin’s Comparison with Other SGLT2 Inhibitors

As mentioned earlier, ertugliflozin belongs to the SGLT2 inhibitor class, a group of medications that also includes well-known drugs like empagliflozin and canagliflozin. All these medications share a common mechanism: they target the SGLT2 protein in the kidneys to reduce glucose reabsorption, promoting the excretion of excess sugar through urine and helping lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.  However, despite their similar mechanism, there are important differences among these medications: 
  • Efficacy: While all SGLT2 inhibitors effectively lower blood sugar, the degree of glucose reduction may vary slightly from one drug to another. Some patients may respond better to one medication based on their individual metabolic profile and treatment goals. 
  • Side Effect Profiles: Each SGLT2 inhibitor has its own pattern of common and rare side effects. For instance, the risk of urinary tract infections, genital infections, or changes in blood pressure may differ slightly between ertugliflozin, empagliflozin, and canagliflozin. Understanding these differences helps clinicians tailor treatment to minimize adverse effects. 
  • Cardiovascular and Renal Benefits: Some SGLT2 inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, have robust evidence for reducing cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Ertugliflozin also shows promising cardiovascular and kidney-protective effects, but the choice of drug may depend on a patient’s specific heart or kidney risk profile. 
  • Combination and Dosing Options: Certain SGLT2 inhibitors are available in fixed-dose combinations with other antidiabetic agents, offering more flexibility in treatment. Ertugliflozin is typically taken once daily, which can be convenient for many patients managing multiple medications. 
Ultimately, choosing the right SGLT2 inhibitor is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Factors like blood sugar targets, cardiovascular and kidney health, potential side effects, other medications, and individual lifestyle considerations all play a role. These decisions should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, ensuring the therapy is both effective and safe for the patient.    Healthcare Professional Join Now

Final Thoughts

Ertugliflozin offers an effective option for managing type 2 diabetes, particularly for patients who require additional glycemic control. Its unique mechanism of action, combined with evidence from clinical trials, underscores its role in contemporary diabetes management. As with any medication, it’s essential for patients to consult with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.   

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  1. Is ertugliflozin the same as metformin?

No. Metformin reduces glucose production in the liver, while ertugliflozin prevents glucose reabsorption in the kidneys. Both lower blood sugar but via different mechanisms.   

  1. Is ertugliflozin the same as Ozempic?

No. Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while ertugliflozin is an SGLT2 inhibitor. Both treat type 2 diabetes but work differently.   

  1. Does ertugliflozin cause weight loss?

Yes. Clinical studies show modest but significant weight loss in patients taking ertugliflozin, independent of dose.   

  1. What are the side effects of ertugliflozin?

  • Common: urinary tract infections, genital yeast infections, increased urination, dizziness, low blood pressure. 
  • Rare: diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney problems. 
 

  1. What is the cost of ertugliflozin?

Average US cost: $400–$500 per month without insurance. Discounts or coupons may be available.   

  1. Is ertugliflozin available in the US?

Yes. Ertugliflozin is FDA-approved and available for adults with type 2 diabetes.