Januvia

sitagliptin phosphate

Brand(s):

• Januvia

Manufacturer:

• MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.

Disease(s):

• Type 2 Diabetes

Sitagliptin Tablets: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Sitagliptin?

Sitagliptin is an oral medication used to manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Its mechanism of action involves regulating the amount of insulin your body releases after meals. It's important to understand that sitagliptin is not a cure for diabetes and is typically used alongside lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. It's not suitable for treating type 1 diabetes.

Sitagliptin may be prescribed alone or in combination with other diabetes medications, depending on individual needs and response to treatment. Your doctor will determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific situation.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor Before Taking Sitagliptin

Before starting sitagliptin, it's crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history. Avoid taking sitagliptin if you have a known allergy to it or are experiencing diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention and insulin treatment).

Specifically, tell your doctor if you:

• Have kidney disease, or are undergoing dialysis.
• Have a history of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. While sitagliptin is categorized as FDA pregnancy category B (meaning it's not expected to harm the unborn baby), it's still important to discuss this with your doctor.
• Are under 18 years old. Sitagliptin is not typically recommended for children and adolescents without specific medical guidance.

How to Take Sitagliptin

Always adhere to your doctor's prescription instructions precisely. Do not adjust the dosage or frequency of your medication without consulting your doctor first. The prescribed dosage might be modified depending on your body's response and individual needs.

Sitagliptin can be taken with or without food, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. Regular blood sugar monitoring is necessary while taking sitagliptin. Your doctor may also order additional blood tests to assess your treatment's effectiveness.

Managing Blood Sugar Levels:

It's important to be aware of the signs of both low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).

Hypoglycemia symptoms include headache, hunger, sweating, pale skin, irritability, dizziness, shakiness, and difficulty concentrating. Always keep a readily available source of fast-acting sugar (such as fruit juice or glucose tablets) on hand to treat low blood sugar. A glucagon injection kit might also be prescribed for emergencies.

Hyperglycemia symptoms can include increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, dry mouth, fruity breath odor, drowsiness, dry skin, blurred vision, and weight loss.

Important Note: Stress, illness, travel, surgery, intense physical activity, alcohol consumption, and skipped meals can all affect your blood sugar levels and potentially necessitate adjustments to your medication. Never change your medication regimen without explicit guidance from your physician.

Sitagliptin is one element of a comprehensive diabetes management plan. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through proper diet, regular exercise, weight management, and possibly additional medications is crucial for effective diabetes control.

What Happens if I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to compensate for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Some medications can interfere with sitagliptin's efficacy or mask the symptoms of low blood sugar. It's essential to disclose all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to your doctor. This includes:

• Albuterol, clonidine, reserpine, or beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol, etc.)
• Digoxin
• Probenecid
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Aspirin or other salicylates (including Pepto-Bismol)
• Blood thinners (warfarin, Coumadin)
• Sulfa drugs (Bactrim, SMX-TMP, etc.)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other beta-blockers
• Insulin or other oral diabetes medications

This list isn't exhaustive. Many other drugs might interact with sitagliptin. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions before starting any new medication while taking sitagliptin.

Monitoring Your Health While Taking Sitagliptin

Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding dietary restrictions, activities, and other lifestyle adjustments. Regular checkups are important to monitor your progress and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop taking sitagliptin and contact your doctor immediately if you notice:

• Pancreatitis (severe upper stomach pain radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, rapid heart rate)
• Significant reduction or absence of urination
• Swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath
• Severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, facial or tongue swelling, burning eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple rash spreading, causing blistering and peeling)

Common side effects may include:

• Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat
• Headache, back pain, joint or muscle pain
• Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation

Sitagliptin Storage

Store sitagliptin tablets at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.