sitagliptin / metformin

Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) contains metformin, a medication that can rarely cause a condition called lactic acidosis (too much lactic acid in the blood). This condition can lead to other health problems that can be life-threatening. Let your prescriber know about any health conditions you have and the other medications you take before you start Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin). They can check your risk for lactic acidosis.

Although rare, some people who took Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) developed inflammation in their pancreas (pancreatitis). It's not clear whether people who already have problems with their pancreas are at higher risk during treatment. Stop Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) and get medical help if you notice symptoms of having an inflamed pancreas, such as belly pain that won't go away or that spreads to your back, nausea, and vomiting.

Some clinical studies suggest that there might be a link between treatment with a DPP-4 inhibitor (like sitagliptin) and heart failure. Since Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) contains a DPP-4 inhibitor, it's important to be aware of the risk for heart failure. Make sure to let your care team know about your full medical history before you start this medication, especially if you have a history of heart failure. Contact your care team right away if you notice any symptoms related to heart failure, like shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeat, swelling in ankles or feet, sudden weight gain, and chest pain.

There have been some reports of worsening kidney function, such as acute (sudden) kidney failure, that sometimes required dialysis during treatment with Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin). This medication might not be the best option if you have kidney issues, so be sure to tell your primary care provider about your full medical history. Older adults might be at greater risk for sudden kidney problems. Your care team will check your blood work at least once a year to check your kidney function while you're taking this medication.

Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) can lower how much vitamin B12 your body absorbs and drop your vitamin B12 levels. This can lead to anemia. Let your healthcare team know if you've had any low energy, muscle weakness, low appetite, or tingling or numbness on hands or feet that doesn't seem to go away. You might need to get blood tests done to check for vitamin B12 deficiency and related anemia. Your primary care provider might order these blood tests periodically (every 1 to 3 years) during treatment with Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin).

You're at risk of having low blood sugar if you take Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin) together with other diabetes medications, particularly insulin or a sulfonylurea. Very low blood sugar can be life-threatening. Symptoms of low blood sugar include feeling shaky, very hungry, confused, or weak; being nervous or anxious; having a fast heartbeat; or sweating. It's important to know how to recognize and treat low blood sugar. Talk to your healthcare team if you're concerned about having low blood sugar levels.

Some people who've taken medications containing a DPP-4 inhibitor like the sitagliptin in Zituvimet have reported severe and disabling joint pain. This joint pain can occur anytime after starting this medication, from one day to years. Talk to a healthcare professional if you have any discomfort in your joints.

Some people who took a DPP-4 inhibitor medication like the sitagliptin in Zituvimet have had an itchy, blistering rash called bullous pemphigoid. The blisters or sores usually go away with appropriate treatment and once you stop taking Zituvimet (sitagliptin / metformin). Stop taking this medication and speak to your care team right away if you have itchy skin, rash with blisters, or sores.