Precautions and Warnings With Sitagliptin and Metformin

There are many precautions and warnings with sitagliptin and metformin to be aware of. For example, the medication may cause a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis, and people who have liver disease are at a higher risk for developing it. Precautions and warnings with sitagliptin and metformin also extend to people who are allergic to any components of the medicine, have kidney disease, or have metabolic or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Sitagliptin and Metformin: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking
 sitagliptin and metformin (Janumet®) if you have:
 
  • Kidney problems, including kidney failure (renal failure)
  • Liver problems, including liver failure or cirrhosis
  • Low vitamin B12 levels (pernicious anemia)
  • Congestive heart failure (CHF)
  • A history of heart attack or stroke
  • A history of pancreatitis (inflammation or infection of the pancreas)
  • An upcoming surgery or procedure (including x-rays and other radiology procedures)
  • Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
      
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
  • Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
  • Breastfeeding.
     
Tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Sitagliptin and Metformin Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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