Januvia 50 mg (Sitagliptin 50)

Januvia 50 mg Tablet, containing Sitagliptin 50 mg, is a prescription dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor by MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd. Available in strips of 7 film-coated tablets (light beige, round, marked “112”), it manages type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults, particularly those with moderate renal impairment. Prescription-only due to risks of pancreatitis and hypoglycemia.

Uses

• Controls blood sugar in type 2 diabetes mellitus (with diet/exercise, alone or with other antidiabetics)

• Reduces risk of diabetes-related complications (e.g., kidney damage, nerve issues)

• Not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

Side Effects of Januvia 50 mg

• Common:

  • Headache

  • Upper respiratory infections (e.g., cold, sore throat)

  • Nasopharyngitis

  • Hypoglycemia (with other antidiabetics)

• Rare:

  • Stomach pain

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Joint pain

• Serious:

  • Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain, vomiting)

  • Severe allergic reactions (hives, swelling, breathing difficulty)

  • Kidney problems (changes in urination)

  • Heart failure (shortness of breath, swelling)

Action: Seek emergency help for pancreatitis, allergic reactions, or heart failure symptoms. Consult a doctor for persistent side effects.

How to Use

• Dosage: Adults: 50 mg once daily for moderate renal impairment (eGFR 30–45 mL/min/1.73m²). Adjust to 25 mg if eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m² or dialysis.

• Administration: Swallow whole with water, with or without food, at the same time daily.

• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless near next dose; skip and resume schedule. Do not double dose.

• Overdose: Seek urgent help for severe hypoglycemia (sweating, shakiness). Call Poison Help (1-800-222-1222).

How Tablet Works

• Mechanism: Sitagliptin inhibits DPP-4, increasing incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP), enhancing insulin release and reducing glucagon levels in a glucose-dependent manner, lowering blood sugar.

• Onset: Peak plasma concentration ~1–4 hours; half-life ~12.4 hours.

• Effect: Reduces HbA1c by ~0.5–0.8% over 3–6 months.

Safety Advice

• Allergies: Avoid if allergic to Sitagliptin or excipients (e.g., microcrystalline cellulose).

• Health Conditions:

  • Contraindicated: Type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis.

  • Caution: History of pancreatitis, kidney disease, heart failure, or gallstones.

• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding:

  • Pregnancy: Use only if benefits outweigh risks (limited data).

  • Breastfeeding: Unknown if excreted in milk; consult doctor.

• Driving: Safe unless hypoglycemic symptoms (dizziness, shakiness) occur.

• Alcohol: Limit intake; increases hypoglycemia and pancreatitis risk.

• Storage: Store at 20–25°C, away from moisture and children.

• Precautions:

  • Monitor kidney function (eGFR) before/during use.

  • Check blood sugar regularly.

  • Stop if pancreatitis suspected (severe abdominal pain).

  • Maintain diet/exercise regimen.

  • Report joint pain or heart failure symptoms promptly.