JANUVIA

This medicine contains the active ingredient Sitagliptin which is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor. These medicines increase the levels of insulin (hormone produced by pancreas necessary for the proper use of sugar in the blood) and in that way they control sugar levels in the blood. They also lower the levels of hormone glucagon (also produced by pancreas) which affects the liver to produce more sugar. Sitagliptin is prescribed for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus.

Is Sitagliptin suitable for me?

Sitagliptin is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• If you are allergic to Sitagliptin or other ingredients of this medicine

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• have porphyria (blood disease)
• have type I diabetes 
• have kidney or liver problems
• suffer from ketoacidosis 
• have gallstones, alcohol dependence or very high levels of triglycerides

Sitagliptin interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Sitagliptin?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take Sitagliptin exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The dose will be prescribed according to your condition and needs. The usual dose is 100 mg tablet taken once a day. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose. Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Sitagliptin side effects?

Like all medicines Sitagliptin can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• low blood sugar
• nausea, flatulence, vomiting
• constipation
• swelling of the hands or legs
• flu
• headache
• upper respiratory infection
• stuffy or runny nose and sore throat
• osteoarthritis
• arm or leg pain

Uncommon:

• stomach ache
• diarrhea
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• dizziness
• itching
• kidney problems

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.