Do Gliptins work for you? I'm struggling

Hi all,

I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes about ten years ago, I have just turned 63 years old. Late onset diabetes runs through the paternal side of my family but I exacerbated it through many years of working in a highly stressful, long-hours job; my diabetes became easier to manage when I took early retirement six years ago. I was put on slow-release Metformin (two tablets a day) about seven years ago then last year because my HbA1c was beginning to creep up the daily dose was increased to four tablets a day (two in the morning, two at night). From then on I had crippling diarrhoea for the whole day two or three times a week so just over a month ago I was switched to two Metformin a day plus one Gliptin. Ever since, my home-monitored blood glucose levels have shot up, so it looks like the gliptin is seriously not working. Is anyone else on gliptin and do you know if it takes time to kick in? I'd go back to the GP but our surgery is closed for a chunk of the Christmas period so it'll take me a while to get to speak to anyone. All advice welcome.

TriciaWs said:

Just wondering if you've tried reducing carbs to help?

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Thanks, Tricia. I've been watching my carb levels for years: we've never been pudding or cake eaters and I've always used wholegrain/wholewheat rice, pasta and bread (for at least 25 years). During lockdown I pretty well cut out all bread etc completely and am also careful about fruit (I only eat berries) and starchy vegetables. My exercise regime is much better than when I was at work (personal trainer for circuits or boxing once a week, plus regular power walking), all of which has kept me pretty much steady state for a few years. It's true that I've not been quite as rigorous recently and can definitely do better on the diet and exercise front, but I haven't lapsed to an extent that would explain the dramatic increase. But you're right, every little helps!

Lamont D said:

To stop the dihorea, it's probably the higher dosage of metformin.
If the gliptin isn't working, or if you are getting side effects from them, then discuss it with your GP as soon as possible.
If it was last year, then the gliptin has had plenty of time to work.
There are a number of other diabetic meds.
Have you tried a change in diet? The low carb forum has plenty of ideas and recipes.

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Thanks, Lamont. As I've mentioned in my reply to Tricia, I certainly need to be stricter with myself re diet, but I think you're right - I need to go back to the GP.