Janumet 50/1000 mg Tablet

Generic Name: Sitagliptin 50 mg + Metformin Hydrochloride 1000 mg
Category: Oral Anti-Diabetic (DPP-4 Inhibitor + Biguanide combination)

Description:

Janumet 50/1000 mg Tablet is a combination anti-diabetic medicine used in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It combines Sitagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) and Metformin (a biguanide).

• Sitagliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, increasing incretin hormones which help stimulate insulin release and reduce liver glucose production.

• Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver, delays glucose absorption from the intestines, and improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

This dual action provides better blood sugar control, reduces the risk of complications, and has a low risk of hypoglycemia when used alone.

Uses:

• Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (when diet and exercise alone are not enough)

• Helps prevent diabetes complications like kidney damage, nerve issues, eye damage, heart attack, and stroke

Mechanism of Action:

• Sitagliptin (50 mg): Enhances incretin activity → increases insulin release and suppresses glucagon (lowers glucose production)

• Metformin (1000 mg): Reduces hepatic glucose production, improves insulin sensitivity, and decreases intestinal glucose absorption

• Combined effect: Significant reduction in both fasting and post-meal blood glucose

Dosage & Administration:

• Usual dose: 1 tablet twice daily with meals (doctor will decide exact dose)

• Must be taken with food to minimize gastric side effects from Metformin

• Swallow whole with water, do not crush or chew

• Dose adjustment required in kidney impairment

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort (from Metformin)

• Headache, sore throat, mild infections (from Sitagliptin)

• Low blood sugar (rare alone, more if used with insulin/sulfonylureas)

• Loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Lactic acidosis (Metformin) – severe fatigue, muscle pain, breathing difficulty

• Pancreatitis (Sitagliptin) – severe abdominal pain, vomiting

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Liver function issues (rare)

Warnings & Precautions:

• Not for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

• Avoid in severe kidney or liver disease

• Monitor blood sugar, HbA1c, kidney, and liver function regularly

• Avoid excessive alcohol (increases risk of lactic acidosis)

• Stay hydrated to reduce side effects