Januvia (Sitagliptin)

Januvia is a prescription medication used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes. When used as part of a healthy lifestyle plan encompassing exercise and diet, Januvia helps patients control their blood sugar levels.

The FDA approved Januvia for treating type 2 diabetes in 2006. Since hitting the market, it has become one of the most commonly prescribed medications to reduce blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. By managing blood sugar, Januvia lessens the risk of other medical conditions caused by type 2 diabetes such as heart disease, kidney damage and eye problems.

Unfortunately, there are several long-term risks associated with Januvia that can impact a person’s life forever. Numerous reports have linked Januvia to different cancers including pancreatic cancer and thyroid cancer. Even with new, stricter label requirements, Merck & Co. has been sued over their negligence to inform consumers about life-threatening side effects.

While there are many benefits of taking Januvia to help control your type 2 diabetes, some people may experience adverse side effects. Many side effects are minor and not harmful to your health. However, if you experience severe side effects that do not go away, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Pancreatic cancer, thyroid cancer and acute pancreatitis are several of the most dangerous side effects of Januvia. Because of this, let your health provider know if you have a medical history of pancreatitis, gallstones or kidney problems.

Januvia may also cause changes in your blood sugar levels. High or low blood pressure makes you susceptible to various complications such as a heart attack, stroke, dehydration and brain damage.

Signs of an abnormal blood sugar level may involve:

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Feeling shaky
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness

Check your blood sugar levels regularly to make sure your type 2 diabetes remains under control. If you notice a significant change in your results, tell your doctor.

Discuss potential risks and health complications with your doctor before taking Januvia. If you experience any uncomfortable symptoms while taking Januvia, notify your physician as soon as possible.

Januvia affects patients in different ways, regardless of gender or age. Research has found a link between Januvia and pancreatic abnormalities that can lead to pancreatitis. There are three primary forms of pancreatitis that are caused by Januvia: acute pancreatitis, necrotizing pancreatitis and hemorrhagic pancreatitis.

• Acute pancreatitis: Happens suddenly and can be extremely painful, and even life-threatening.
• Necrotizing pancreatitis: A severe form of acute pancreatitis and has high rates of mortality.
• Hemorrhagic pancreatitis: Causes sudden abdominal pain, nausea and fever. Due to the bleeding and paralysis of the digestive tract, it can be fatal.

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious side effects from taking Januvia.

Within its first few years on the market, Januvia received many reports about its harmful side effects. In September 2009, Merck & Co. was required to update the warning label with information about the risk of developing pancreatitis while taking the medication.

Januvia manufacturer Merck & Co. informed the FDA it would complete additional research about the drug’s pancreatic safety and provide documentation by June 2011. However, the agency never received the information. In February 2012, Merck & Co. received a notice about failing to conduct further research as promised. Roughly a year later, in March 2013, the FDA launched its own investigation that looked into the the relationship between Januvia and pancreatic cancer. The results showed that taking Januvia could in fact double the risk of hospitalization due to pancreatitis, which can lead to pancreatic cancer.

After the research findings were made available to the general public, numerous lawsuits were filed against Merck & Co. for their lack of research and warnings. Allegations brought against the manufacturer claim:

• Insufficient information about the potential side effects
• Failure to warn physicians about monitoring for pancreatitis symptoms
• Refusal to issue a recall after studies showed the link between pancreatic cancer and Januvia

Januvia may cause an unwanted reaction when taken with other medications including those that are prescription, over-the-counter, supplements and herbal remedies. When different drugs interact with one another, they may not be as effective.

Provide your doctor with a list of all current medications you are taking so they can determine the best treatment for your type 2 diabetes.