Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Januvia (Sitagliptin).
Hypersensitivity reaction: A Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) called hypersensitivity reaction has occurred for some people with the use of Januvia (Sitagliptin). Stop taking the medication and get immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including Fever, swollen glands, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or flu-like symptoms with skin rash or blistering.
Immune system: Januvia (Sitagliptin) can reduce the number of cells that fight infection in the body (white blood cells). This side effect may be more of a concern for people who already have a weakened immune system. People who have HIV infection, have had an organ transplant and are taking medications to reduce the activity of the immune system, or are taking medication to treat certain types of cancer are more likely to have a weakened immune system. If any of these conditions apply to you, discuss with your doctor how Januvia (Sitagliptin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Januvia (Sitagliptin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Kidney function: Januvia (Sitagliptin) has been reported to cause decreased kidney function and may cause kidney failure. Your doctor may recommend regular testing to check your kidney function while you are taking Januvia (Sitagliptin). If you notice signs of kidney problems, such as decreased urine production; swelling in your hands, wrists, feet, or ankles; difficulty breathing, or weakness, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
People with decreased kidney function may require lower doses of Januvia (Sitagliptin). If you have Kidney Disease or decreased kidney function, discuss with your doctor how Januvia (Sitagliptin) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Januvia (Sitagliptin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Januvia (Sitagliptin) is not recommended for people with moderately to severely reduced kidney function.
Liver function: Januvia (Sitagliptin) is not recommended for people with severely reduced liver function. People with moderately reduced liver function should discuss with their doctor how Januvia (Sitagliptin) may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Januvia (Sitagliptin), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Low blood glucose (sugar): Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can occur when Januvia (Sitagliptin) is used in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea (e.g., glyburide, gliclazide), or insulin. If you experience low blood sugar (e.g., headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, irritability, hunger, fast heartbeat, sweating, and feeling jittery) while taking Januvia (Sitagliptin), contact your doctor.
Pancreatitis: Januvia (Sitagliptin) may cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). People with a history of pancreatitis, gallstones, Alcoholism, or high triglycerides may be more at risk of experiencing this. If you experience prolonged and severe abdominal pain with or without vomiting while taking Januvia (Sitagliptin), contact your doctor immediately.
Type 1 Diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis: Januvia (Sitagliptin) should not be used by people with type 1 diabetes or to treat diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine).
Pregnancy: Januvia (Sitagliptin) is not recommended for use during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Januvia (Sitagliptin), contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Januvia (Sitagliptin) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Januvia (Sitagliptin), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Januvia (Sitagliptin) have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to have decreased renal function and may require lower doses of Januvia (Sitagliptin).
