Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Qtern. It works with your body to help keep your blood sugar levels down. 

Qtern is often taken one time a day in the morning. You can take it with or without food. You should swallow the tablet whole and do no split or cut it. 

Most people tolerate Qtern well. Common side effects include an upper respiratory infection, like a cold or the flu. Urinary tract infections and yeast infections of the genitals can also occur. If they do, you should obtain treatment. Your doctor will also order blood tests to watch for increases to your cholesterol. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects can occur. Dehydration can be a concern for certain people. To avoid dehydration, be sure that you talk to your doctor about how much fluid you should drink each day. Also, tell your doctor right away if you lose a lot of fluid from vomiting, sweating or diarrhea. 

It is important to read the Medication Guide to learn about other possible side effects and which symptoms to watch for. For example, this medicine could cause heart failure, joint pain, skin reactions, and problems with the pancreas or kidneys. It could also cause ketoacidosis and low blood sugar. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow your condition closely.

Drug interactions can occur. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. Also, talk to your doctor before you drink alcohol.  

For best results with Qtern, be sure to follow the diet and exercise program that your doctor recommends. Also, check your blood sugar as directed.