Januvia (Sitagliptin)

Januvia (Sitagliptin) Tablet manufactured by Merck is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It can either be used alone or with other anti-diabetic drugs like metformin or a thiazolidinedione. It is a DDP-4 inhibitor and therefore inhibits the growth of the dipeptidyl peptidase 4 enzyme. There are some studies being conducted which link DDP-4 inhibitors with an increased chance of getting cancer. The Januvia drug helps control blood sugar in the body by regulating insulin levels after intake of food. It is only part of the program to control diabetes which also involves diet, weight control, exercise,

Januvia Dosage

Januvia is administered orally as a single dose of 100mg with or without food. Increase or decrease in dosage is possible, depending on the side effects the patient is experiencing. Dosage may need to be decreased if taken with another medicine that reduces blood sugar to avoid low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Patients with moderate renal insufficiency should take up to 50mg per day. Patients with severe renal insufficiency can take up to 25mg per day. For cases of minor renal insufficiency, no adjustment in dosage is required. When used in conjunction with a Sulfonylurea, the dosage of the Sulfonylurea needs to be reduced to prevent hypoglycaemia.

Precautions/Side Effects For Januvia

Possible side effects of brand or generic Januvia are headaches, sore throat, running nose and nausea. One of the main advantages of the drug is that it has very minimal side effects. If pain occurs in the upper stomach or you have extreme nausea, vomiting or a fast heart rate, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. Januvia contains sitagliptin. It is recommended to not take Januvia if one is allergic to any of its ingredients. Allergic reactions like swelling of the face, tongue and throat may also occur.

In infants below the age of eighteen months, brand or generic Januvia should not be administered. The effect of Januvia on the foetus is not clear and hence it should be recommended for pregnant women only when the benefits outweigh the risks. If you have problems with your kidney, are on dialysis or have pancreatitis, it is recommended to speak with your doctor first before taking sitagliptin. Januvia is not supposed to be administered to patients who have type 1 diabetes mellitus.