Januvia
Name of the Drug
Januvia (Sitagliptin)
Uses of the Drug
Januvia helps to treat type-2 diabetes of those patients who are unable to control their blood sugar by only exercise and diet. It is basically used with exercise and diet. It can be either used alone or along with some other kind of antidiabetic drugs as well.
How to Take
Januvia should be taken as per the doctor’s recommendations. The label of the medicine should be checked for the right instruction on dosing. Januvia comes along with an additional patient leaflet.
You should consult your pharmacist in case of any query. Januvia can be taken orally with food.
You should take Januvia regularly for better results. Even though you feel good do not stop taking Januvia. A single dose should not be missed.
Drug Mechanism and Class
Januvia is considered to be a DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitor. It functions by increasing your body’s insulin amount and decreases the sugar amount of your body.
Missed Dose
If you ever miss a dosage of Januvia and are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Storage
Januvia should be stored at the room temperature somewhere between 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). It should be kept away from children and pets. Januvia should be stored away from light, moisture and heat.
Warnings Precautions
Januvia should NOT be taken if:
- you are prone to allergies to a single ingredient present in Januvia;
- you are having high levels of blood ketone (diabetic ketoacidosis)
- you are having type 1 diabetes;
You should get in touch with the doctor very soon if you notice any of the above-mentioned problems.
Some of the medical conditions might have interaction with Januvia. Inform your pharmacist or doctor in case you are having any other diseases and particularly if you are having any one of the below mentioned list:
- if you have conceived, or planning to get pregnant, or breast-feeding
- if you take any nonprescription or prescription medicine, dietary supplement, or herbal preparation
- if you are allergic to foods, medicines, or some other substances
- if you are having kidney problems
Some of the MEDICINES MIGHT HAVE INTERACTION with Januvia. Inform your pharmacist or doctor in case you notice any one of the below mentioned medicines:
* sulfonylureas or Digoxin (eg, glipizide) as they might increase the side effects of Januvia
Common Side Effects
All medicines can have side effects. However, there are some people who have either less or no side effects. Check whether you have any of the side effects as mentioned below and in that case consult your doctor as soon as possible:
* upper respiratory infection; sore throat; nausea; stuffy or runny nose; headache
You should consult your doctor immediately in case you have the serious side effects as mentioned below:
* Serious allergic reactions (hives; rash; itching; tightness in chest; difficulty in breathing; swelling of face, lips, mouth, or unusual hoarseness; tongue); chills or fever; red, blistered, peeling, or swollen skin.
More Information
You should consult your pharmacist in case of any query. This medicine should be exclusively used by only the patient. Do not share Januvia with some other people. In case the symptoms persist, consult your doctor immediately.