Januvia (Sitagliptin): A Comprehensive Guide to Blood Sugar Management

What is Januvia?

Januvia is a brand drug containing Sitagliptin as its active ingredient. In 2006, the US FDA approved this drug for treating Type 2 Diabetes in adults. The medication, coupled with a healthy diet and exercise, can be very effective for managing Type 2 diabetes. It is available in tablet form in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. The usual dosage is 100mg per day, but it may vary based on individual conditions. Therefore, you must check with your doctor before you start taking Januvia 100mg tablets.

Sitagliptin is available as a brand name and generic equivalent. If you are looking for a cost-effective option, you can opt for the generic version, which is equally safe and efficient. However, sitagliptin is effective only for people with Type 2 diabetes. People with Type 1 diabetes will be prescribed other treatments.

Mechanism of Januvia

Januvia belongs to the class of drugs known as Dipeptidyl Peptidididase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, also known as Gliptins. These drugs function by increasing the level of a group of hormones called Incretins. Incretins help regulate blood glucose levels by stimulating the release of Insulin and preventing glucose production, thereby maintaining the blood sugar level.

What to Inform Your Doctor?

To avail the maximum benefits and mitigate the risks associated with Sitagliptin, you must inform your doctor of the following before administering this drug:

• If you have inflammation of the pancreas

• Stones in the gallbladder

• Kidney disorder, or cardiovascular disease

• Alcohol addiction.

• High triglyceride levels

• If you have a specific type of diabetes, known as Diabetic ketoacidosis

• Let your doctor know of all the medications you might be taking to avoid any drug interaction. Regardless of whether they are prescription, non-prescription, herbal drugs, or health supplements.

• Let your doctor know if you are allergic to Sitagliptin or have other allergies.

• If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, let your doctor know. You must administer the medicine only upon their approval.

• Children who are 18 or below should not take Januvia. The doctor will recommend alternate medication to such people.

Side Effects

The side effects of Sitagliptin are bifurcated into mild and serious. The mild side effects will fade gradually once the body gets accustomed to the medication, and they do not require medical attention. However, if they worsen or persist for a longer period, you must see a doctor. Below are a few mild side effects of Sitagliptin:

• Indigestion

• Stomach ache

• Diarrhea

• Respiratory Infection

• Headache, sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

If you experience any serious side effects listed below, please contact a healthcare expert immediately.

• Severe allergies such as skin rash, swelling of the face, neck, throat, lips or mouth

• Increased heart rate, trouble swallowing, breathlessness

• Pancreatitis, which causes excessive pain in the stomach accompanied by vomiting.

• Low blood glucose level, which is characterized by shakiness, light-headedness, confusion, nervousness, etc.

• Kidney disorder: Symptoms include fatigue, less urine than usual, and swelling of the feet, ankles, or legs.

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Diabetes

In addition to taking medications, incorporating the following lifestyle changes will help you effectively manage diabetes.

• Include a healthy and balanced diet, and keep a check on your carbohydrate intake.

• If you are overweight or obese, shed extra pounds and get to normal weight.

• Confine your alcohol intake for occasions and quit tobacco products.

• Limit the intake of sugary drinks since they are high in calories and low in nutrition.

• Regular exercise and staying physically active play a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels.

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.

• Stress management is very important to regulate the blood sugar level.

• Get your blood work done regularly and see a doctor in case of any abnormality.

Conclusion

Diabetes is a chronic disorder that may cause kidney failure, cardiovascular diseases, strokes, blindness, etc. Despite being amongst the leading causes of death directly or indirectly, the condition can certainly be addressed. Taking a healthy and nutritious diet, staying active, maintaining normal body weight, giving up smoking, and taking your medications regularly can be very useful in regulating blood sugar levels. Stay vigilant and take blood tests frequently to know if the glucose level is within the normal limits. If you notice any deviation, please consult your doctor as soon as possible to avoid unwanted consequences. Following your doctor’s advice and leading a healthy lifestyle can avert or delay the onset of diabetes.