Question 1

What is Janumet?

Accepted Answer

Janumet is a combination drug that contains two active ingredients, sitagliptin and metformin. These components work through different mechanisms to assist the body in maintaining blood glucose levels within a target range.

Sitagliptin belongs to a class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, while metformin is classified as a biguanide. Together, they help the body respond better to insulin and reduce the amount of sugar released into the bloodstream.

Question 2

What is Janumet used for?

Accepted Answer

Janumet is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus .

Question 3

How does Janumet work?

Accepted Answer

How Janumet Works

Janumet contains two active ingredients, sitagliptin and metformin, which target blood sugar control through different mechanisms in the body.

Sitagliptin

Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. It works by increasing the levels of natural substances called incretin hormones. These hormones help regulate blood sugar by:

Signaling the pancreas to release more insulin, especially after a meal.

Signaling the liver to stop producing excess sugar when it is not needed.

Metformin

Metformin belongs to a class of drugs called biguanides. It helps lower blood sugar levels in three primary ways:

Reducing liver production: It decreases the amount of glucose (sugar) that the liver produces.

Decreasing absorption: It reduces the amount of sugar the intestines absorb from the diet.

Improving insulin sensitivity: It helps the body respond better to its own natural insulin, allowing cells to use glucose more effectively.

By combining these two actions, Janumet helps manage blood sugar levels throughout the day and after eating.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Janumet?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredients in Janumet are sitagliptin and metformin .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Janumet?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Janumet may include:

diarrhea

nausea

upper respiratory tract infection

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Janumet?

Accepted Answer

Janumet belongs to the DPP-4 inhibitor and biguanide combination drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Janumet and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

Janumet is taken by mouth, usually twice a day. It should be taken with meals to help reduce the risk of stomach upset, which is a common side effect of the metformin component.

General Instructions

Take this medication at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level in your bloodstream.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets, as this can interfere with how the medication is released into your body.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your healthcare provider provides different instructions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember with food. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.

Question 8

Is Janumet safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is important during pregnancy to reduce risks to both the parent and the baby. There is currently limited research on the safety of using Janumet during pregnancy. In many cases, healthcare providers prefer using insulin to manage diabetes in pregnant patients because its effects are better understood in this population.

Metformin, one of the active ingredients in Janumet, may stimulate ovulation in some premenopausal women who do not ovulate regularly. This can increase the likelihood of becoming pregnant. If pregnancy is not desired, it is important to discuss contraception options with a healthcare professional.

Breastfeeding

The decision to breastfeed while taking Janumet involves considering the potential risks to the infant and the benefits of the medication for the parent. The components of Janumet affect breastfeeding differently:

Metformin: This drug is known to pass into breast milk in small quantities.

Sitagliptin: It is not yet known if sitagliptin passes into human breast milk, though it has been found in the milk of animals during laboratory studies.

Because the effects on a nursing infant are not fully established, a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan during this time.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Janumet come in?

Accepted Answer

Janumet is available as a combination medication in oral tablet form. It is supplied in two different formulations:

Film-Coated Tablets: These are immediate-release tablets intended for oral use.

Extended-Release Tablets: These tablets are formulated to release the active ingredients into the system gradually. This version is typically identified as Janumet XR.

Both formulations are designed to be swallowed whole. The extended-release tablets should not be split, crushed, or chewed, as this can affect how the medication is released into the body.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Janumet?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Janumet is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is a combination of two previously approved medications: sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin hydrochloride, a biguanide.

Boxed Warning

The FDA requires a boxed warning for Janumet due to the risk of lactic acidosis associated with the metformin component. Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious metabolic complication that can occur if metformin builds up in the blood. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment in a hospital. Risk factors include:

Renal impairment

Older age (65 years or older)

Radiological studies using contrast dye

Surgery or other procedures

Hypoxic states (such as acute heart failure)

Excessive alcohol intake

Hepatic impairment

Regulatory Updates on Kidney Function

The FDA revised the labeling for all metformin-containing products to change the way kidney function is assessed. Previously, serum creatinine levels were used; however, the FDA now requires the use of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Janumet is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, defined as an eGFR below 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 . The FDA also recommends against starting Janumet in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 .

Safety Communications

The FDA has monitored reports of acute pancreatitis in patients using sitagliptin. While a definitive causal link is not established, the FDA-approved labeling includes warnings and precautions regarding the risk of pancreatitis. Healthcare providers are advised to monitor patients for signs of this condition and to discontinue the medication if pancreatitis is suspected.

Question 11

What should I know about Janumet and cost?

Accepted Answer

Prescription Status

Janumet is a brand-name prescription medication. The total cost to the patient is generally determined by the terms of their health insurance policy and the pharmacy's pricing structure.

Insurance Coverage

Many insurance plans and Medicare programs include Janumet on their formularies. However, because it is a combination brand-name drug, it may be placed in a higher cost-sharing tier than generic medications. Patients are encouraged to check their plan's specific coverage details for copay or coinsurance amounts.

Cost Variations

The price of Janumet can vary depending on the dosage strength and the quantity of tablets dispensed. Comparing prices at different pharmacies or utilizing mail-order options provided by insurance companies may help in managing the overall expense of the medication.

Janumet

Medication Quick Facts

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What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Price Information

FAQ

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