Janumet® (sitagliptin/metformin) tablets for type 2 diabetes

What Janumet® Is and How It Works

Janumet® combines sitagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) and metformin (a biguanide) in one tablet. It helps adults with type 2 diabetes improve blood sugar control when diet and exercise are not enough. Tablets are taken by mouth, usually twice daily with meals. Many people compare strengths and value, such as the Janumet 50 1000 price, or ask about Janumet cost without insurance when budgeting therapy.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy headquartered in Manitoba that meets Canadian pharmacy standards. Our pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing, and you can order online with support from our friendly team. We also work with vetted international partner pharmacies to keep authentic brand options available at lower prices and with a broad selection.

Sitagliptin slows the breakdown of incretin hormones, which increases insulin release after meals and decreases glucagon. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity. This dual approach targets fasting and post-meal glucose. Janumet® comes in strengths such as 50/500 mg and 50/1000 mg.

Dosage and Usage

Your prescriber will set a dose based on current therapy and kidney function. Janumet® tablets are usually taken twice daily with meals to reduce stomach upset. Swallow tablets whole with water.

• Starting: Many patients begin with 50/500 mg twice daily and adjust based on response and tolerance.
• Titration: Dose increases occur gradually to reduce gastrointestinal effects from metformin.
• With food: Take with morning and evening meals.
• Missed dose: Take when remembered unless it is near the next scheduled dose. Do not double doses.
• Do not exceed the maximum daily metformin limit set by your prescriber.

• Storage: Keep tablets at 15–25°C (59–77°F) in a dry place, in the original bottle.
• Travel: Carry a full list of medicines. Use a cool, dry carry-on bag. Keep away from heat and moisture.
• Refills: Order early to avoid gaps, especially before travel or holidays.

Benefits and Savings

Combining sitagliptin with metformin in one tablet simplifies therapy. The metformin component improves fasting glucose, and sitagliptin helps after meals. Janumet® is generally weight neutral and has a low risk of hypoglycemia when not used with insulin or a sulfonylurea. Many patients prefer a single pill instead of two separate prescriptions.

Ordering through a licensed Canadian pharmacy can offer 60–80% savings versus typical US prices. These savings can be meaningful without insurance and may help support long-term adherence. You can shop brand medicines at Canadian prices and add OTC items in one order.

Side Effects and Safety

• Common: diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, gas, abdominal discomfort, and headache.
• Other reported: upper respiratory symptoms, fatigue, and mild taste changes.
• Low blood sugar: more likely when combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea.
• Serious but rare: lactic acidosis with metformin (seek urgent care for rapid breathing, severe fatigue, muscle pain, or confusion).
• Pancreatitis signals: severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting.
• Kidney concerns: changes in urination or swelling.
• Allergic reactions: rash, hives, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe joint pain and bullous pemphigoid have been reported with DPP-4 inhibitors.

People with significant kidney disease, liver disease, heavy alcohol use, or unstable heart failure may not be suitable for metformin-containing products. Metformin may need to be paused around iodinated contrast procedures or major surgery under medical guidance.

Onset Time

Metformin starts to improve fasting glucose within days, with full effect building over 1–2 weeks. Sitagliptin works after meals from the first doses. A1C reflects average control over about three months, so prescribers often assess the full impact at the next A1C check.

Compare With Alternatives

Janumet® vs Janumet® Xr: The XR version uses extended-release metformin and is often dosed once daily. It may reduce stomach upset for some people who do not tolerate immediate-release metformin.

Janumet® vs Januvia®: Januvia® contains sitagliptin alone. It may be used when metformin is not tolerated or is contraindicated. Janumet® may offer greater A1C reduction than sitagliptin alone due to the metformin component.

Other options: SGLT2 inhibitors such as canagliflozin (Invokana) and GLP-1 receptor agonists may suit different clinical goals, such as weight loss or kidney and heart protection. Choice depends on medical history, tolerability, and cost.

Combination Therapy

Janumet® can be used with other agents, including SGLT2 inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, or basal insulin, when clinically appropriate. The risk of hypoglycemia increases when combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea. DPP-4 inhibitors are generally not combined with GLP-1 receptor agonists due to limited added benefit.

Tell your care team about all medicines, including OTC products and supplements. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

Janumet® is for adults with Type 2 Diabetes. It is not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Suitability depends on kidney and liver function, other conditions, and prior therapy. Those with frequent stomach side effects on metformin may consider the XR version. Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding plans with your clinician.

Budgeting therapy matters. Compare strengths to match your prescription and reduce waste. Multi-month supplies can lower the per-month cost. You can turn on gentle reorder reminders in your account. For current promotions and bulk options, see our Janumet coupon page. If you manage Hyperglycemia alongside other risks, you can also review comparative treatments in our articles, including Best Weight Loss Injections Top Options To Consider and Mounjaro Dosage Beginners Guide To Dosing. These resources help frame discussions about goals and cost without insurance.

Customer-service chat is available during posted office hours if you need ordering help. Pharmacists can address medication questions by phone as appropriate.

Authoritative Sources

Manufacturer patient site for Janumet

FDA Prescribing Information for Janumet

Health Canada Drug Product Database

YouDrugstore offers caring support, Canadian pricing, and pharmacist-reviewed prescriptions. Order Janumet® online with prompt, express, cold-chain shipping to the US. We carry brand and OTC health products so you can complete your order in one place.

This content does not replace medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and the patient leaflet. Product availability, packaging, and manufacturers may vary by country of origin.