Janumet Side Effects: What You Must Know

Are you taking Janumet, the diabetes medication? Have you been experiencing side effects? Don't worry—you're not alone! In this article, you will learn all about Janumet's side effects, its dosage, and what the common, mild, and serious side effects are.

With this information, you will be more informed and prepared to protect your health. Get the answers you need now, and be sure to share this important information with your friends and family! 

What is Janumet?

Janumet is a brand-name prescription medication that is used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is a combination of two active ingredients: metformin and sitagliptin. Metformin helps your body respond better to insulin, while sitagliptin stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin.

It is mainly used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes who cannot control their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise alone. While this medication is beneficial for many, it can also have some serious side effects that you need to be aware of.

Janumet can be an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes, but like any medication, it can come with side effects. Fortunately, most Janumet side effects are mild and manageable. It is important to remember that Janumet is just one part of an overall diabetes treatment plan.

Your treatment may also include diet, exercise, monitoring your blood sugar levels, and other medications. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the best possible outcomes. 

How does Janumet Work? 

Janumet is a combination of two medications, sitagliptin, and metformin. Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin is a biguanide. Janumet works by prolonging the activity of incretin hormones, which are produced naturally by the body after eating.

These hormones help the body produce more insulin in response to meals, and Janumet extends the period over which incretin hormones are active in the body. This increases the amount of insulin produced after meals and helps to lower blood sugar levels throughout the day.

What is Janumet dosage? 

Janumet comes in two forms: regular tablets and extended-release tablets, both of which are meant to be taken orally. The most common dosage for Janumet is 250 milligrams (mg) of metformin combined with 50 mg of sitagliptin, taken twice daily.

However, your doctor may recommend a different dosage depending on your situation. For example, adults may be prescribed 500 mg of metformin and 50 mg of sitagliptin, taken orally twice daily. The dosage may also vary based on other factors, such as age and the severity of diabetes.

It is important to take Janumet as prescribed. Taking too much can increase your risk of side effects, and taking too little can make it less effective in controlling your blood sugar levels. You should also talk to your doctor before increasing or decreasing your dosage or stopping your medication altogether. 

Who is at Risk for Side Effects? 

It is important to be aware of the potential side effects associated with Janumet, especially if you are at risk for developing them. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer as to who is at risk for experiencing Janumet side effects, as everyone’s risk of side effects is unique.

However, there are certain factors that are known to increase a person’s risk for developing side effects, including age, weight, and genetics. For older adults, the risk of experiencing Janumet side effects is higher due to age-related changes in the body’s metabolism.

Older adults are also more likely to have other conditions that increase the risk of side effects, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and kidney or liver problems. Additionally, individuals who are overweight are more likely to experience Janumet-related side effects than those who have a normal weight.

That is because insulin levels are often higher in overweight people, making them more prone to side effects. Lastly, genetics can play a role in the risk of experiencing Janumet side effects.

People with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or other medical conditions are at an increased risk of developing side effects when taking Janumet. It is important to be aware of these potential risks and discuss them with your doctor so that they can provide you with the best treatment plan and adjust your dosage if necessary.

Common Side Effects of Janumet

Like all medications, Janumet can cause side effects. The most common side effects associated with Janumet are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, stuffy nose, and upper respiratory infection. The most common side effects associated with Janumet can be minimized by following the medication instructions carefully and informing your doctor of any changes or unusual experiences that occur while taking the medication.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of most diabetic medications, and it also comes with Janumet. It can range in severity from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and nausea. Diarrhea can also lead to dehydration, so it is important to recognize it and seek medical attention if it persists.

Headache

Headache is also one of the most common side effects of Anti-diabetic medications. With Janumet, headaches can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or vomiting.

Headaches caused by Janumet can vary in severity and duration and may be localized to one part of the head or may be felt throughout the head. In some cases, headaches can be a sign of a more serious health problem and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Fatigue

Fatigue is often described as an overwhelming feeling of tiredness and exhaustion, which can interfere with a person's ability to perform their normal activities. People taking Janumet may experience fatigue as a side effect, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

In some cases, the fatigue may be severe enough to interfere with a person's ability to perform their normal activities. The exact cause of fatigue experienced when taking Janumet is not known. However, it is possible that the medication may decrease the body's energy efficiency, resulting in increased fatigue.

In addition, people with type 2 diabetes often experience fatigue due to the body's inability to properly process sugar. This can lead to fatigue, as well as other symptoms such as dizziness and lightheadedness. But the good this is, with lifestyle changes and proper medical treatment, fatigue can be managed, and people taking Janumet can live a full and active life.

Indigestion

Indigestion is one of the most common Janumet side effects reported by patients. It is the feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen, usually accompanied by an uneasy feeling or pain, frequently occurring after meals. It is usually caused by the body's inability to properly digest food, resulting in an upset stomach.

Typically, indigestion is mild and goes away on its own. In some cases, however, indigestion can be a serious side effect of taking Janumet. Symptoms of severe indigestion may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Janumet, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

Sore Throat

One of the most common side effects of Janumet is a sore throat. This is a common side effect in those who have been taking Janumet for some time and can range from mild to severe. It is important to know the signs of a sore throat so that you can monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

There are several signs and symptoms of a sore throat associated with Janumet. These include   Pain or discomfort in the throat Feeling of tickling or irritation in the throat Swollen lymph nodes Raspy or hoarse voice Difficulty swallowing.

The feeling of raw or burning in the throat If these symptoms become worse or do not improve with the use of medications, it is important to seek medical attention right away. It is also important to tell your doctor if you have any other medicines that you are taking that could be causing your throat symptoms.

Mild Side Effects of Janumet

Let’s discuss some mild side effects of Janumet.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is reported as a side effect of taking Janumet in up to 10% of patients; this is considered a moderate incidence of side effects. This abdominal pain is usually described as general discomfort or pain in the stomach area.

While this is usually a mild side effect that doesn't last long, some people can experience more severe abdominal pain or pain for an extended period of time. If you experience any abdominal pain while taking Janumet, it is important to speak with your doctor.

In some cases, the issue may be able to be managed with a change in dosage or a different drug regimen. If the abdominal pain persists or becomes more severe, medication may be prescribed to alleviate the pain. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as increasing exercise or changing your diet, can manage your symptoms.

Common Cold

The common cold is a well-known illness that affects millions of people each year. While the severity of the symptoms varies from person to person, it can cause a wide range of unpleasant effects. One of the most common of these side effects is a runny or stuffy nose, as well as sneezing, and a sore throat.

For most people, the common cold does not have any long-term effects, and it can usually be managed with over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, for those taking Janumet, it is important to take extra precautions to ensure you are taking the best possible care of your health.

Rash

A Janumet rash could be any type of skin reaction, but it is most likely to be a red, itchy, or bumpy rash. It could also present as a rash or hives, which are raised, red, itchy, and swollen patches on the skin. These rashes may be localized or appear all over the body and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling, and itching in other areas of the body.

If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Janumet, seek medical attention immediately. It is important to discuss with your doctor any side effects you may be having so that they can determine the most appropriate course of action.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea with Janumet is usually mild to moderate but can be severe. Vomiting can also occur and should be managed with supportive measures. If nausea and vomiting persist, it is important to seek medical attention. There are several medications available to alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms associated with Janumet and other anti-diabetic drugs.

Swelling of Eyes of Face

One of the most common Janumet side effects is the swelling of the eyes and face. This side effect can occur in both men and women and can range from mild to severe. In some cases, this swelling can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing, so if you experience this, you should seek medical attention immediately. The cause of this side effect is unknown.

It has been found that the drug can interfere with hormones, which can lead to fluid retention, inflammation, and other symptoms that cause swelling. Some people have reported a history of chronic allergies, which could also be a contributing factor. In order to prevent or reduce the risk of this side effect, you should take Janumet as prescribed.

You should also avoid taking any medications that are known to interfere with hormones. If you do experience swelling of the eyes and face, the most common treatments are antihistamines to reduce any symptoms of allergies and steroids to reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe an oral steroid, which can quickly reduce the symptoms.

Serious Side Effects of Janumet

Apart from common and mild side effects, there are some serious side effects of Janumet that you should know so that you can seek medical health immediately.

Lactic Acidosis

One of the potential side effects of Janumet is lactic acidosis, a serious medical condition in which an excessive accumulation of lactic acid builds up in the bloodstream. Lactic acidosis is an uncommon but serious consequence of diabetes medicine, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and take necessary precautions to prevent other health problems.

Lactic acidosis occurs when your body produces more lactic acid than it can neutralize. As a result, the body’s acid-base balance is thrown off, and the acid accumulates in the bloodstream. Lactic acidosis can cause a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fatigue. In extreme cases, it can lead to coma or even death.

Janumet can cause lactic acidosis when used in combination with other diabetes medications. People taking Janumet should let their doctor know if they are also taking any other diabetes medications, as this can increase their risk of developing lactic acidosis.

People with certain underlying medical conditions, such as kidney disease or liver disease, may also be at higher risk of developing lactic acidosis. If symptoms of lactic acidosis are present, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.

Treatment usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes to reduce the amount of lactic acid in the body. Additionally, it’s important to take necessary precautions to prevent lactic acidosis from occurring in the first place.

The best way to prevent lactic acidosis is by following the instructions and taking your medications exactly as prescribed. Additionally, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and get regular appointments to keep your diabetes in check. Lastly, if you experience any symptoms of lactic acidosis, seek medical help immediately.  

Kidney Problem

Kidney problems are one of the most potentially serious side effects of Janumet. Patients should be aware of the signs and symptoms of kidney dysfunction and contact their doctor if they experience any issues. It is important to note that these side effects can occur at any time during treatment, so regular monitoring is essential.

Patients taking Janumet may experience an increased risk of developing kidney problems. This risk is higher in people with pre-existing kidney disease or diabetes and individuals taking certain other medications such as diuretics or ACE inhibitors.

Common signs and symptoms of kidney disruption include increased urinary output, changes in urine color or smell, difficulty urinating, and swelling in the extremities. In addition to monitoring for kidney problems, it is also important to be aware of the risks of lactic acidosis, which is higher in kidney patients.

This is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by the buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream. This side effect can be especially severe in patients with kidney dysfunction and those taking other medications, so it is important to be aware of any accompanying symptoms.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which is an organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and hormones. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, individuals may experience abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms may worsen if the condition is left untreated and can lead to severe complications.

Individuals who take Janumet are at a higher risk of developing pancreatitis. Symptoms of pancreatitis may manifest within a few days of taking the medication or after extended use. It is important to note that these side effects may be more likely to occur if the Janumet dosage is too high.

For this reason, it is essential to carefully follow the guidelines and take the dosage as prescribed. If you experience any of the following symptoms after taking Janumet, seek medical attention immediately:   Nausea and vomiting Abdominal pain Fever Chills Back pain Weight loss.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your doctor may administer some blood test and an ultrasound to determine if pancreatitis is present. If pancreatitis is diagnosed, you should stop taking Janumet and begin treatment. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include medications, surgery, and other interventions.

Janumet is a powerful medication, and it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. If you experience any signs of pancreatitis after taking Janumet, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately. Taking Janumet as prescribed and recognizing the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis are essential to ensure safe and effective treatment.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Janumet cause weight loss?

One of the most common questions asked about Janumet is whether or not the medication can cause weight loss. The answer is that the effects of Janumet on weight loss are unclear. While Janumet can help improve overall glucose control, it is not a direct weight-loss drug. However, it may be possible to experience some weight loss as a result of Janumet use.

In clinical trials, Janumet was associated with a modest decrease in weight in some patients compared with those taking other diabetes medications. Janumet's main constituent, metformin, is typically taken for diabetes, however, it is also sometimes administered off-label for weight loss.

(Off-label prescribing refers to the practice of using a medication for a treatment that is not officially recognized by the FDA.) In some cases, weight loss may occur while taking Janumet, but it is not a guarantee. Weight loss is more likely to occur if Janumet is combined with lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthier eating habits, and weight monitoring.

If you’re taking Janumet, talk to your doctor about any changes in weight that you may experience. In conclusion, Janumet is a very effective diabetes treatment, but it does not guarantee weight loss. While some patients may experience a modest weight loss while taking Janumet, it is important to talk to your doctor about any changes in weight and to make sure that you are taking Janumet as safely as possible.

Does Janumet cause Fatigue?

Janumet can cause fatigue. However, it is important to note that not everyone who takes Janumet will experience fatigue. It mostly comes as a relative symptom. However, if you experience fatigue while taking Janumet, it is important to discuss this with your doctor.

They can help determine if Janumet is the cause and recommend other treatments or steps to help manage the fatigue. There are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of experiencing fatigue while taking Janumet. This includes getting enough sleep, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.

Does Janumet cause Hair loss?

Since Janumet is a medication that combines two different drugs, metformin, and sitagliptin, it is important to consider whether or not it can cause side effects, including hair loss. While hair loss is not a common side effect of Janumet, it is possible that people can experience hair loss due to other causes.

It is important to note that hair loss can be caused by many different factors, and Janumet may not be the cause in every case. Common causes of hair loss include genetics, stress, medications, hormonal imbalances, and medical conditions. Moreover, diabetes itself can cause hair thinning and hair loss eventually.

In some cases, hair loss may be caused by other medications that are taken in conjunction with Janumet. Therefore, it is important to consider all factors when determining the cause of hair loss. For instance, a patient may be taking another medication that interacts with Janumet in a way that causes hair loss.

In summary, hair loss is not a common side effect of Janumet and is likely caused by other factors. However, it is important to speak to your doctor if hair loss does occur as a side effect of taking Janumet.

Does Janumet cause Burping?

Studies show that Janumet can cause burping. When it comes to burping, Janumet works in two ways: it can cause it directly or indirectly lead to it. First and foremost, it can cause burping by inducing an increase in stomach acid, leading to belching. Secondly, Janumet can lead to burping indirectly by causing an increase in the amount of gas present in the stomach.

This gas can be released as burps or flatulence. It’s important to understand the possible side effects of Janumet and what can be done to reduce or prevent burping. If Janumet is causing burping, simple lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding carbonated drinks, avoiding fried or fatty foods, exercising, and eating smaller meals throughout the day, may help to reduce the amount of burping associated with Janumet.

If the burping persists, it is important to keep track of when it occurs and what else might be contributing to it. This information can be helpful in determining the underlying cause of the burping and identifying potential treatments.

Does Janumet cause Joint Pain?

It has been studied that Janumet can cause joint pain. Joint pain associated with Janumet can range from minor discomfort to debilitating pain. It is most commonly experienced as stiffness or aching in the joints, especially in the knees, wrists, and ankles. Joint pain associated with Janumet usually manifests itself soon after beginning treatment with the medication.

It is important to note that joint pain is not an inevitable side effect of taking Janumet. The severity of joint pain experienced by an individual will depend on their individual health, their individual tolerance to the medication, and other factors.

If you experience joint pain while taking Janumet, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible. He will be able to evaluate your specific situation, look at other potential factors that could be causing the discomfort, and determine the best course of action for you.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Janumet is a powerful diabetes medication that can effectively lower blood sugar levels. However, there are a number of side effects that can occur with the use of Janumet. These side effects may be minor and can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and/or medication.

However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to talk to your doctor if any of them become an issue. Additionally, it is important to closely monitor your blood sugar levels, diet, and exercise routine when taking Janumet, so that you can stay on top of your diabetes management and keep your blood sugar in check.

About The Author

Who is Dr. Ergin? Dr. Ahmet Ergin is an endocrinologist interested in and passionate about diabetes care. Dr. Ergin earned his medical degree with honors at Marmara University School of Medicine in Istanbul, Turkey. Then, he completed his internal medicine residency and endocrinology fellowship at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.

He is a board-certified Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism physician. He is also a certified diabetes education specialist. Disclaimer: Any information on diseases and treatments on this website is for general guidance only and must never be a substitute for the advice your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional provides. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional’s advice with questions regarding your medical condition.