Janumet is a prescription-based medication that is taken to help manage blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes patients. It can cause mild to severe side effects. This article helps you learn about what is Janumet used for, how it works, its common and serious side effects, and ways to manage them effectively.
Managing type 2 diabetes mellitus requires a comprehensive approach that involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and, in many cases, medication. Janumet is one of the commonly prescribed medications for patients with type 2 diabetes. It helps to control blood sugar levels. Like any other diabetes medicine, Janumet has many benefits but also comes with possible side effects that every diabetic patient who is using it should be aware of. Understanding these side effects not only helps you make an informed decision but also enables you to stay prepared to respond quickly if any complications develop.
About Janumet: What is Janumet?
Janumet is an oral tablet used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It contains the active component Sitagliptin, which belongs to the class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP-4) inhibitors. Janumet helps manage your blood sugar by keeping the levels from getting too high. Sitagliptin works by prolonging the activity of proteins that increase the release of insulin after elevated blood sugar levels after a meal. The medication helps lower blood sugar levels effectively than when used alone. Doctors often prescribe this Sitagliptin formulation when lifestyle modifications are insufficient in achieving adequate blood sugar control. A doctor best prescribes the right dosage of Janumet after a thorough examination of the patient. You can also ask your doctor for a Janumet generic prescription, such as Istavel 100, to save the most on your medication.
Why do side effects occur?
Every pharmaceutical agent has potential side effects because it directly interacts with the body’s natural processes. Janumet or Janumet generic both contain Sitagliptin, which works on insulin regulation and glucose metabolism. This process involves the collaboration of various organs, including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. This is the reason some patients may experience metabolic, gastrointestinal, or systemic side effects. The probability of developing side effects depends on dosage, duration of use, individual tolerance, other medications being used, and underlying medical conditions.
What are the common side effects of Janumet?
Some patients using Janumet may experience mild or serious side effects. The most common Janumet side effects are headache, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, stomach upset, diarrhoea (when used in combination with certain other medications), swelling of the hands and legs (when used in combination with certain other diabetes medications), and upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold. There may be other possible side effects of the antidiabetic agent not listed in this section. Talk to your healthcare specialist if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine.
Are there any serious side effects?
Rare but serious side effects of Janumet are listed below. Take precautionary measures if they occur.
Severe allergic reactions: Janumet can contribute to allergic reactions, which can have serious consequences for you. Discontinue treatment and get immediate medical help right away if you develop any of the following serious allergic reactions as the side effects of Janumet.
• Racing heart
• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain
• Hives (itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin)
Sitagliptin may cause a rare skin reaction called bullous pemphigoid. This reaction may have begun as an itchy skin rash, and large blisters appeared on the skin. You may require urgent hospitalisation if this reaction happens. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash or blister on your skin.
Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): When Janumet is used in combination with other diabetes medications, it can contribute to low blood sugar, medically termed as hypoglycaemia. The dose of your other antidiabetic agent may need to be changed when taken in combination with Januvia. Speak to your healthcare professional immediately if you develop symptoms of hypoglycaemia, such as sleepiness, headache, hunger, dizziness, pale skin, confusion, weakness, sweating, anxiety, irritability, feeling jittery, a fast heartbeat, or blurry or other changes in vision.
Kidney damage: Sitagliptin may cause kidney damage. Speak to your healthcare specialist immediately if you develop symptoms of kidney damage, including nausea, seizures, confusion, breathing problems, chest pain/pressure, reduced urination, weakness, unusual tiredness, swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs.
Pancreatitis: Regular intake of Janumet may cause pancreatitis, an Inflammation of the pancreas. Discontinue treatment and speak to your healthcare specialist straight away if you develop vomiting or severe pain in the upper part of your abdomen that travels to your back.
Heart failure: Janumet may make you more likely to get heart failure. Seek immediate medical help if you get the following symptoms of heart failure. These include:
• Unusual tiredness
• Shortness of breath, trouble breathing, especially while lying down
• Unusually fast weight gain
• Swelling of feet, ankles, or legs.
Can long-term side effects of Janumet also occur?
Yes, there are certain Janumet long-term side effects that can occur, but they may vary from patient to patient. These side effects include heart failure. If, in this case, the condition exacerbates over time, it may progress to long-term complications. Long-term complications from heart failure include blood clots, abnormal heart rhythm, and stroke. If you are worried about Janumet’s long-term side effects, discuss with your healthcare specialist. They can suggest different ways to lessen the risk of these effects. They can also provide effective ways to manage Janumet long-term side effects if you experience them.
Important tips: Janumet may not be appropriate for you if you have certain health issues or factors that affect your health. Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history before receiving a prescription for a Sitagliptin formulation. There are no known safety issues with alcohol consumption while receiving this antidiabetic medicine. However, alcohol affects blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, alcohol consumption may make it tough for you to manage your blood sugar. Therefore, it is important to limit the amount of alcohol you consume during the treatment. If you drink alcohol, discuss with your healthcare provider the amount that’s safe to consume during the antidiabetic treatment. Moreover, your healthcare specialist will also inform you about the risks and benefits of using Janumet during treatment for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Taking the dosage of Janumet exactly as prescribed by the doctor is essential to reduce potential side effects.
