Januvia (generic name sitagliptin) is used for patients with type 2 diabetes, which is the most common chronic form. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the patient’s body does not produce enough insulin, which helps the body regulate sugar in the blood stream. The drug acts as a signaling device to the pancreas to release more insulin and to the liver to stop the production of glucose if there is too much sugar in the system.
Januvia and Acute Pancreatitis
The pancreas is an organ that produces hormones to the body, including insulin. Acute pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas is inflamed, or swollen, which then affects the production and excretion of hormones. Some symptoms of acute pancreatitis includes persistent or chronic pain, which may be worse while the patient is laying on his/her back, anxiety, fever, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and skin rash.
Some of the causes of acute pancreatitis include heavy consumption of alcohol, gallstones and certain medications. One of those medications that can cause acute pancreatitis has been found to be Januvia. Treatment of acute pancreatitis includes medication, but in severe cases, patients can be admitted to the hospital and may ultimately be fatal. The disease affects more men than it does women and can be diagnosed through various tests by doctors.
Januvia and Skin Rash
There have been reports of hypersensitivity in patients using Januvia, and this may be a result of an allergic reaction to the medication.
The Food and Drug Administration issued a Public Health Advisory about the drug’s life threatening side effects, but Januvia is still being used by patients for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Check out the following articles for more information about Januvia, filing a Januvia lawsuit and finding a Januvia attorney.