Janumet XR is a combination drug used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. The drug consists of two types of diabetic medicines (including extended-release metformin hydrochloride and immediate-release sitagliptin), which have distinctively different mechanisms of action. Acting as a biguanide, metformin hydrochloride (HCl) lowers postprandial and basal plasma glucose by improving insulin sensitivity and decreasing hepatic glucose production. On the other hand, sitagliptin has inhibitory actions on dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) receptors. Janumet XR is available in film coated tablets of 50mg/1000mg sitagliptin and metformin hydrochloride, respectively. Alternatively, it comes in the concentrations of 50mg/500mg and 100mg/1000mg.
Janumet XR is commonly used to improve glycemic control in diabetic patients. In order to achieve optimal blood glucose control, Janumet XR should be used adjunctively with non-pharmacological treatments such as dietary modification or exercise. Janumet XR is only intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (it is generally ineffective in treating type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis). This antihyperglycemic drug should only be used in adults over 18 years old. Its efficacy and safety are not well studied in pediatric patients.
The FDA-approved Janumet XR effectively improves blood glucose control in patients who suffer from type 2 diabetes. For better results, follow the doctor’s instructions closely (including any lifestyle recommendations such as exercise and diet).