Approved in 2007 as a combination of sitagliptin (Januvia) and metformin into a single tablet for treatment of diabetes, Janumet helps with glucose control in type 2 diabetics by simultaneously lowering glucose levels and acting as a DPP-4 inhibitor that reduces HbA1c levels. It also helps with weight loss. The two medications together can act on all three problems associates with type 2 diabetes – reduced insulin secretion, over-production of glucose and insulin resistance. The sitagliptin inhibits the DPP-4 enzyme, increasing the incretin hormone for more insulin production and release by the beta cells of the pancreas. It also works on the pancreatic alpha cells, slowing the release of glucagon. The metformin helps insulin sensitivity by increasing glucose uptake and utilization in the body’s muscles and tissues. It also decreases glucose production in the liver. For treating complications of diabetes, Janumet reduces post-meal blood sugar levels and also fasting glucose levels, better than metformin on its own.
What Are The Janumet Side Effects And Risks?
As with metformin, when used to treat diabetes, Janumet should not be taken by anyone with kidney or liver dysfunction, or acute or chronic metabolic acidosis. Similar to the metformin medication for diabetes, Janumet comes with a warning for the risk of lactic acidosis, which is a rare but potentially fatal metabolic disorder. People with kidney or liver problems, congestive heart failure, or those who drink alcohol heavily are at a higher risk of lactic acidosis, as are those who have a heart attack or stroke, surgery, or severe infection. Other side effects are comparable to metformin – gastrointestinal issues, edema, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), cold symptoms, weakness, headaches and allergic reactions. Specific gastrointestinal symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Hypoglycemia can occur when combined with other blood sugar-lowering medications such as insulin or sulfonylureas, or when food intake is not sufficient after strenuous exercise. In fact, at times of stress or lower food intake (such as during infection, trauma, fever or surgery), patients are recommended to discontinue use and instead use insulin temporarily.
Are There Janumet Alternatives?
As part of a complete treatment plan for diabetes, Janumet should be used along with a healthy diet and exercise. Many diabetics, concerned about the serious risks associated with oral diabetes drugs, choose to first try to lose weight and maintain blood sugar control with diet and exercise alone. At least 30 minutes a day of aerobic exercise along with strength training is recommended. As for diet, a customized meal plan suited to the individual that can be maintained over time is best, but just cutting out harmful fats, sugars and starches will yield considerable results. Consult the glycemic index for foods that will metabolize slower and smooth out those dangerous blood sugar “spikes.”
