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Janumet Information

Janumet (Sitagliptin/Metformin) is primarily indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults. It is used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control, particularly when metformin or sitagliptin alone is insufficient, or for patients already managed on both drugs separately. The medication contains two active ingredients: sitagliptin (a dipeptidyl peptidase-4, or DPP-4, inhibitor) and metformin hydrochloride (a biguanide).

Sitagliptin enhances the body's natural ability to lower high blood sugar. It achieves this by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which then stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high and reduce the amount of sugar produced by the liver. Metformin, on the other hand, primarily minimizes the amount of sugar the liver produces and improves the body's sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to absorb more glucose from the blood. It also slightly decreases glucose absorption from the intestines. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition where the body either becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or the pancreas stops producing enough of it to maintain normal glucose levels. This results in high blood sugar, which can damage blood vessels and organs over time. The two active ingredients in Janumet help lower both fasting and postprandial (after meal) blood sugar levels, thereby helping individuals with type 2 diabetes achieve better blood sugar control and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as kidney damage, nerve pain, and vision loss.

Janumet Side Effects

Like all medications, this medication may cause some side effects. Some common side effects include bloating, diarrhea, headache, joint or muscle pain, nausea, a metallic taste in the mouth, and sore throat. Contact your doctor if these common side effects persist or worsen.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, skin blistering, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Anemia (low red blood cells) with symptoms including dizziness, pale skin, unusual tiredness;
• Decreased thyroid function with symptoms including weight gain, feeling cold, fatigue;
• Kidney failure with symptoms including decreased urine production, body swelling, fatigue;
• Lactic acidosis with symptoms such as muscle pain, drowsiness, and breathing difficulties;
• Liver problems with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, yellow eyes, and skin;
• Low blood sugar with symptoms such as palpitations, excessive sweating, headache, anxiety, and fainting (especially if used with insulin or sulfonylureas);
• Pancreatitis with symptoms such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, and nausea.
• Skin rash and blistering;
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency with symptoms including fatigue, shortness of breath, and difficulty walking properly

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Janumet Precautions

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to sitagliptin, metformin, or any other ingredient in Janumet. Before using this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Chronic alcoholism;
• Dehydration;
• Heart disease, such as heart failure;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood pressure;
• Pancreatitis;
• Severely uncontrolled blood sugar or diabetic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis;
• Thyroid disease, such as hypothyroidism;
• Vitamin B12 deficiency

If you are scheduled for an X-ray or CT scan involving iodinated contrast, you must temporarily stop Janumet. The dye can acutely impair kidney function, leading to metformin accumulation. Likewise, if you are scheduled for surgery, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Janumet. It is strictly advised by healthcare providers to avoid excessive alcohol intake while on this medication, as alcohol can potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. This drug can make you feel dizzy and drowsy; therefore, it is advised not to drive or operate machinery until you are sure how it affects you. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar, such as anxiety, sweating, feeling pale, hunger, and a pounding heart. Consult your doctor immediately if you feel these symptoms. While metformin is sometimes used in pregnancy, sitagliptin is generally avoided unless the benefits clearly outweigh the unknown risks to the fetus. Most clinical guidelines recommend switching to insulin for better, safer glycemic control during pregnancy. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, most healthcare providers advise either discontinuing the drug or stopping breastfeeding.

Drugs like topiramate or acetazolamide can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when used along with Janumet. Certain medications like cimetidine, dolutegravir, or ranolazine may compete for kidney excretion, potentially increasing metformin levels in the body to dangerous levels. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Janumet to prevent potential drug interactions. Take one Janumet tablet twice daily to maintain steady blood sugar levels. You must swallow the pill whole with a meal to reduce the chance of an upset stomach or diarrhea. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support your kidney function while on this medication. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose and gradually increase it based on your body's response. Always check your blood sugar regularly and report any unusually high or low readings to your healthcare provider. Check out the leaflet in the medication pack for more usage instructions. Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Janumet?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Janumet.