Januvia, or the generic product sitagliptin, is anti-diabetic agent that belongs to the class of medications called dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor. Januvia is available as a tablet and is used to lower the blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes. Januvia works in the body by increasing the amount insulin produced by the pancreas when sugar levels rise. It also reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver. Januvia may produce side effects in many patients.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect that may develop in users of Januvia. According to the "Drug Information Handbook," about 4 percent of individuals may experience this undesired adverse effect. (See References 1) The patient should avoid large fatty meals, especially diabetics. These patients should follow dietary recommendations to adequately manage their sugar levels. If the diarrhea worsens or continues after three days, the patient should inform a physician right away.
Headache
Headache is another common side effect that may appear with Januvia. This side effect may become bothersome and inconvenient for some individuals; therefore, a pharmacist or physician may recommend the use of an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol. If the headache worsens or occur along with a fever, the patient may require medical attention.
Nasopharyngitis
Nasopharyngitis, which is defined as inflammation of the nose and pharynx, is an upper respiratory infection that may also be seen in patients taking Januvia. About 5 percent of patients may experience this side effect, reports Merck.com. (See References 2) Symptoms of nasopharyngitis include runny nose, sore throat, fever and cough. Patients should report these symptoms to a physician who can determine if the patient should be prescribed antibiotics.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, is a serious side effect of Januvia that may lead to death, explains Januvia.com. (See References 3) The patient should inform the physician if he has ever had pancreatitis before using the medication. Pancreatitis manifests as severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back. Some patients may also develop nausea and vomiting. If the patient experience severe stomach that does not go away, she should discontinue the medication and call a health care provider immediately.
Hypoglycemia
Diabetic patients may develop hypoglycemia, a low blood sugar level, while taking Januvia. The risk increases if the patient is using Januvia along with other medications to lower blood sugar. "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach" states that patients who skip meals or exercise excessively are more prone to develop hypoglycemia. (See References 4) Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar are sweating, headache, dizziness, hunger and irritability. The patient should suck on hard candy or drink a glass orange juice to provide a direct sugar source to the body. If the symptoms worsen, the patient should seek the help of a medical profession.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook "; Lacy, Charles F., Armstrong, Lora L., et al; 2009
- Merck.com: Sitagliptin
- Januvia.com: Possible Side Effects
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
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