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Home > Drug Category > Diabetic Medications and Products > Janumet XR and Equivalent

Janumet XR Information

Janumet XR (Sitagliptin/Metformin XR) is used in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle modifications to control blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or doesn't effectively use the insulin it produces, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Uncontrolled high blood sugar can lead to serious health complications over time, affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. The active ingredients in Janumet XR are sitagliptin and metformin. Sitagliptin belongs to the drug class of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, while metformin is classified as 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. Together, these two components help to lower both fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels, thereby assisting individuals with type 2 diabetes in achieving better blood sugar control and reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Janumet XR 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. 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, hives, swelling of the face, 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;
• Pancreatitis with symptoms such as abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, 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 XR Precautions

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

This medication is not for use in individuals with type 1 diabetes or a diabetic emergency called diabetic ketoacidosis. Avoid alcohol or alcoholic beverages while taking this medication, as these substances can cause you to develop side effects. 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. Do not use this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you are scheduled for surgery or any radiological investigation or procedure that requires using a dye, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Janumet XR. This medication is not suitable for use in individuals under 18 years of age. This medication should be used with caution in older adults, as they may be more sensitive to its side effects. The active ingredients in this medication may interact with other medications or substances, such as diuretics, corticosteroids, cimetidine, ranolazine, and dolutegravir. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medications, that you are taking before starting Janumet XR to prevent potential drug interactions. Take this medicine orally, preferably at night with your evening meal, to help minimize stomach upset. It's important to swallow the tablets whole without crushing or chewing them. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose for you. Refer to the leaflets in the medication pack for additional usage information. 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 XR?

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