Janumet 50/500 mg Tablet

Generic Name: Sitagliptin 50 mg + Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg
Category: Oral Anti-Diabetic (DPP-4 Inhibitor + Biguanide combination)

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Description:

Janumet 50/500 mg Tablet is a combination anti-diabetic medicine used in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It contains Sitagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) and Metformin (a biguanide).

• Sitagliptin increases the levels of incretin hormones, which stimulate insulin release and reduce liver glucose production, but only when blood sugar is high (low risk of hypoglycemia).

• Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver, slows intestinal absorption of sugar, and improves the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

Together, they provide better blood sugar control, prevent diabetes complications, and help maintain a healthy weight.

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Uses:

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

• Helps reduce the risk of complications such as kidney damage, heart disease, nerve issues, and vision problems

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Mechanism of Action:

• Sitagliptin (50 mg): DPP-4 inhibitor → increases incretin activity → boosts insulin release & suppresses liver glucose output

• Metformin (500 mg): Biguanide → reduces liver glucose production, slows intestinal sugar absorption, improves insulin sensitivity

• Combined effect: Improved glycemic control without significant risk of hypoglycemia or weight gain

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Dosage & Administration:

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

• Must be taken with food to reduce stomach upset from Metformin

• Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew

• Dose adjustment required in patients with kidney impairment

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Common Side Effects:

• Stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea (mainly from Metformin)

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

• Loss of appetite

• Low risk of hypoglycemia (higher when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)

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Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Lactic acidosis (from Metformin) – weakness, breathing difficulty, muscle pain, drowsiness

• Pancreatitis (from Sitagliptin) – severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

• Liver dysfunction (rare)

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Warnings & Precautions:

• Not for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

• Avoid in severe kidney or liver disease

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar, HbA1c, kidney function, and liver function is recommended

• Avoid excessive alcohol (increases risk of lactic acidosis with Metformin)

• Maintain hydration to prevent dehydration