Janumet combines sitagliptin and metformin in one tablet for type 2 diabetes — and it is not currently available from us. This page explains what it is and how it is taken; the medicines we can supply are listed in our guide to type 2 diabetes medicines.

What is Janumet?

Each tablet contains sitagliptin 50 mg with metformin 500, 850 or 1000 mg, and it is used to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes (Janumet CMI). It puts two medicines in one tablet: metformin, usually the first medicine for type 2 diabetes (healthdirect), and sitagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor — the medicine in Januvia.

How is Janumet taken?

With meals, to lower the chance of an upset stomach, at about the same time each day (Janumet CMI). How many tablets a day, and which strength, is your doctor's decision.

What is the lactic acidosis warning?

Metformin can rarely cause lactic acidosis, a serious build-up of acid in the blood. The Janumet leaflet says to stop taking it and get emergency care if you have symptoms such as feeling very weak and tired, unusual muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, or diarrhoea (Janumet CMI).

Can Janumet cause low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar can happen when Janumet is used together with a sulfonylurea or with insulin, so your doctor may lower those doses (Janumet CMI).

What are the side effects?

They include symptoms of infection, nausea, headache and muscle aches; serious ones — allergic reactions, pancreatitis (severe, persistent stomach pain), skin erosion and kidney problems — need a doctor straight away (Janumet CMI).

Can you get Janumet from us?

No. We do not currently have Janumet or Januvia, so there is no price list for them. The type 2 diabetes medicines we can supply, and their status on the Australian register, are set out in the diabetes medicines guide.

Sources