Sitagliptin + Metformin XR (Janumet XR)
$1.00
Janumet XR combines Sitagliptin with extended-release Metformin in a once-daily tablet for type 2 diabetes.
Drug Information
1 review for Sitagliptin + Metformin XR (Janumet XR)
Janumet XR combines two diabetes medicines in one tablet: sitagliptin and metformin. It is used when metformin alone is not enough to control blood sugar.
What is it used for?
- Type 2 diabetes in adults
How does it work?
Sitagliptin helps the body's natural gut hormones boost insulin after meals. Metformin reduces the sugar made by the liver and helps the body respond better to insulin.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- This medicine works best together with healthy eating, regular activity and keeping a healthy weight.
- It is for type 2 diabetes. It is not a replacement for insulin in type 1 diabetes.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney, liver or heart problems.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Insulin is often used instead during pregnancy.
- Alcohol can affect your blood sugar. Drink only small amounts and never on an empty stomach.
- Learn the signs of low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, hunger, fast heartbeat, confusion) and keep sugary sweets or glucose tablets with you.
- Tell your doctor if you have ever had pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas), gallstones or a high triglyceride level.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, as your dose may need to change.
- On its own it rarely causes low blood sugar, but it can when taken with a sulfonylurea or insulin.
- The metformin in this tablet can rarely cause lactic acidosis. Stop it and tell your doctor if you are very sick with vomiting or diarrhoea, and tell your doctor about any kidney problems or heavy drinking.
- You may need to stop it before a scan with contrast dye or surgery.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Janumet XR can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Cold-like symptoms such as a stuffy nose or sore throat
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Diarrhoea, feeling sick or stomach upset
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Signs of very low blood sugar that do not get better after eating sugar: confusion, drowsiness, fits or passing out
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or lips, a severe rash, or trouble breathing
- Severe stomach pain that spreads to your back, with or without being sick (possible pancreatitis)
- Large, tense blisters on the skin (a rare skin condition called bullous pemphigoid)
- Severe or long-lasting joint pain
- Fast, deep breathing, severe muscle or stomach pain, feeling very cold or drowsy (possible lactic acidosis)
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it with meals. The regular tablet is taken twice a day. The XR (extended-release) tablet is taken once a day, usually with the evening meal.
- Swallow XR tablets whole. Do not split, crush or chew them. You may see a soft tablet shell in your stool, which is normal.
- Your doctor will choose the strength based on your current treatment.
If you miss a dose: Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QWill I need to take Janumet XR forever?
- A
Type 2 diabetes is usually a long-term condition, so most people keep taking their medicine. Healthy changes to diet, activity and weight can sometimes reduce how much you need.
- QHow will I know if Janumet XR is working?
- A
Your doctor will check your blood sugar and HbA1c (an average of your blood sugar over about 3 months). Some people also check their sugar at home.
- QWill Janumet XR make me put on weight?
- A
No. This type of medicine usually does not cause weight gain.

Ines Greco –
The steps at checkout were easy to follow. For the price, I could not ask for more. No problems at all, so I am pleased.