Sitagliptin/Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (Janumet XR) is a fixed-dose combination preparation for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It provides effective blood glucose control for patients through its unique hypoglycemic mechanism. During the course of use, it is crucial to understand and guard against potential adverse reactions.

What Are the Side Effects of Sitagliptin/Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (Janumet XR)?

Gastrointestinal Reactions

Diarrhea (incidence up to 7.7%).

Nausea (5.5%).

Vomiting (2.2%).

Abdominal pain (3.8%).

Other Common Reactions

Upper respiratory tract infection (5.2%-6.2%).

Headache (5.9%).

Decreased appetite.

Severe Side Effects of Sitagliptin/Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (Janumet XR) That Require Vigilance

Lactic Acidosis

This is the most severe side effect of metformin and can be fatal.

Characteristics of lactic acidosis include: elevated blood lactate levels (>5 mmol/L).

Anion gap acidosis.

Increased lactate/pyruvate ratio.

Plasma metformin concentration is usually >5 mcg/mL.

Pancreatitis

Post-marketing surveillance has found that the use of sitagliptin may cause acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis.

Symptom identification: Persistent severe abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back.

With or without vomiting.

Severe Allergic Reactions

Including: Anaphylaxis.

Angioedema.

Exfoliative skin lesions, including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.

Precautions for the Use of Sitagliptin/Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets (Janumet XR)

Renal Function Assessment

Renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate, eGFR) must be assessed before initiating treatment.

Contraindicated in patients with an eGFR of less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

If the eGFR drops below 30 mL/min/1.73 m² during treatment, the medication should be discontinued.

Precautions for Contrast Imaging Studies

For patients with an eGFR between 30-60 mL/min/1.73 m².

Patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure.

Patients who will receive intravascular iodinated contrast agents.

Janumet XR should be discontinued at the time of or prior to the imaging study, and renal function should be re-evaluated 48 hours after the study.

Drug Interactions

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

May increase the risk of lactic acidosis.

Closer monitoring is required.