Consumer medicine information

Janumet

Sitagliptin; Metformin hydrochloride

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Janumet

Active ingredient

Sitagliptin; Metformin hydrochloride

Schedule

S4

 

Consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflet

Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using Janumet.

SUMMARY CMI

JANUMET®

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) summary

The full CMI on the next page has more details. If you are worried about using this medicine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

1. Why am I using JANUMET?

JANUMET contains the active ingredients sitagliptin (as phosphate monohydrate) and metformin (as hydrochloride). JANUMET is used to lower blood sugar levels in adults with diabetes mellitus.

For more information, see Section 1. Why am I taking JANUMET? in the full CMI.

2. What should I know before I take JANUMET?

Do not take if you have ever had an allergic reaction to JANUMET or any of the ingredients listed at the end of the CMI.

Talk to your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take any other medicines, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

For more information, see Section 2. What should I know before I take JANUMET? in the full CMI.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Some medicines may interfere with JANUMET and affect how it works.

A list of these medicines is in Section 3. What if I am taking other medicines? in the full CMI.

4. How do I take JANUMET?

  • Your doctor will tell you how many JANUMET tablets to take and how often to take them.
  • Take JANUMET with meals to lower your chance of an upset stomach.

More instructions can be found in Section 4. How do I take JANUMET? in the full CMI.

5. What should I know while taking JANUMET?

Things you should do
  • Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are using JANUMET.
  • Call your doctor straight away if you if you become pregnant while taking JANUMET.
Things you should not do
  • Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly.
  • Do not give JANUMET to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.
Driving or using machines
  • There is no information to suggest that JANUMET affects your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.
Drinking alcohol
  • Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.
Looking after your medicine
  • Keep your tablets in the blister pack until it is time to take them.
  • Store it in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight.

For more information, see Section 5. What should I know while taking JANUMET? in the full CMI.

6. Are there any side effects?

Serious side effects in particular that need to be noted are:

  • Allergic reactions including rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat with difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
  • Severe and persistent stomach pain, often with nausea and vomiting.
  • Blisters or the breakdown of your skin (erosion).
  • Low blood sugar when used in combination with a sulfonylurea medicine or with insulin.
  • Kidney problems (sometimes requiring dialysis).

For more information, including what to do if you have any side effects, see Section 6. Are there any side effects? in the full CMI.



FULL CMI

JANUMET®

Active ingredient(s): Sitagliptin (as phosphate monohydrate)/Metformin (as hydrochloride)


Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

This leaflet provides important information about taking JANUMET. You should also speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you would like further information or if you have any concerns or questions about taking JANUMET.

Keep this leaflet with the medicine.

You may need to read it again.

Where to find information in this leaflet:

1. Why am I taking JANUMET?
2. What should I know before I take JANUMET?
3. What if I am taking other medicines?
4. How do I take JANUMET?
5. What should I know while taking JANUMET?
6. Are there any side effects?
7. Product details

1. Why am I taking JANUMET?

JANUMET contains two active ingredients: sitagliptin and metformin. Sitagliptin is a member of a class of medicines you take by mouth called DPP-4 inhibitors (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors) and metformin which belongs to a class of medicines called biguanides. Sitagliptin and metformin work together to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

JANUMET is used to lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. JANUMET can be taken alone or in combination with certain other medicines that lower blood sugar along with a recommended diet and exercise program.

2. What should I know before I take JANUMET?

Warnings

Do not take JANUMET if:

  • you are allergic to sitagliptin or metformin, or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
  • Always check the ingredients to make sure you can take this medicine.

Check with your doctor if you:

  • have or have had type 1 diabetes mellitus or
  • have or have had increased ketones in the blood or urine (diabetic ketoacidosis).
  • have or have had severe kidney problems
  • have any liver or heart problems including congestive heart failure, or any past or present medical problems.
  • drink excessive alcohol (all the time or short term "binge" drinking).
  • are going to get or receive an injection of dye or contrast agent for an X-ray procedure, or if you plan to have surgery. Talk to your doctor about when to stop JANUMET and when to start again.
  • take any medicines for any other condition.

During treatment, you may be at risk of developing certain side effects. It is important you understand these risks and how to monitor for them. See additional information under Section 6. Are there any side effects?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. JANUMET is not recommended for use during pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed. You should not take JANUMET while breastfeeding or if planning to breastfeed.

Children

Children and adolescents below 18 years should not use this medicine. JANUMET is not effective in children and adolescents 10 to 17 years of age with type 2 diabetes. JANUMET has not been studied in children younger than 10 years of age.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including any medicines, vitamins or supplements that you buy without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

JANUMET may affect how well other drugs work and some drugs can affect how well JANUMET works.

Medicines that may cause low blood sugar when used in combination with JANUMET include:

  • Sulfonylureas
  • Insulin

A reduction in the amount of the sulfonylurea or insulin may be required.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure about what medicines, vitamins or supplements you are taking and if these affect JANUMET.

4. How do I take JANUMET?

How much to take

  • Your doctor will tell you how many JANUMET tablets to take and how often to take them.
  • Take JANUMET with meals to lower your chance of an upset stomach.

When to take JANUMET

  • Take your JANUMET at about the same time each day.

If you forget to take JANUMET

JANUMET should be taken regularly at the same time each day. If you miss your dose at the usual time, take it as soon as you remember.

If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose when you are meant to.

Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed.

If you take too much JANUMET

If you think that you have taken too much JANUMET, you may need urgent medical attention.

You should immediately:

  • phone the Poisons Information Centre
    (by calling 13 11 26), or
  • contact your doctor, or
  • go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital.

You should do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.

5. What should I know while taking JANUMET?

Things you should do

Call your doctor straight away if you:

  • Become pregnant while taking JANUMET, or

Tell your doctor if you:

  • Become ill
  • Become dehydrated
  • Are injured
  • Have a fever
  • Have a serious infection
  • Plan to have surgery

Your blood glucose may become difficult to control at these times. You may also be at greater risk of developing a serious condition called lactic acidosis. During these times, your doctor may temporarily replace JANUMET with insulin.

Low blood sugar or high blood sugar

Make sure that you, your friends, family and work colleagues can recognise the symptoms of low blood sugar and high blood sugar and know how to treat them.

Low blood sugar

Signs of low blood sugar may include:

  • weakness, trembling or shaking
  • sweating
  • light-headedness, dizziness, headache or lack of concentration
  • irritability, tearfulness or crying
  • hunger
  • numbness around the lips and tongue.

If not treated quickly, these symptoms may progress to:

  • loss of co-ordination
  • slurred speech
  • confusion
  • fits or loss of consciousness

At the first signs of low blood sugar, you need to raise your blood glucose quickly. You can do this by taking one of the following:

  • 5 -7 jelly beans
  • 3 teaspoons of sugar or honey
  • half a can of non-diet soft drink
  • 2-3 concentrated glucose tablets

Unless you are within 10 to 15 minutes of your next meal or snack, follow up with extra carbohydrates such as plain biscuits, fruit or milk.

Taking this extra carbohydrate will prevent a second drop in your blood glucose level.

High blood sugar

If you notice any signs of high blood sugar, contact your doctor immediately.

The risk of high blood sugar is increased with:

  • uncontrolled diabetes
  • illness, infection or stress
  • taking less JANUMET than prescribed
  • taking certain other medicines
  • too little exercise
  • eating more carbohydrates than normal.

Your blood glucose sugar may become difficult to control at these times. You may also be at greater risk of developing a serious condition called lactic acidosis. During these times, your doctor may temporarily replace JANUMET with insulin.

Stop taking JANUMET if you have symptoms of lactic acidosis, such as feeling very weak and tired, unusual (not normal) muscle pain, trouble breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, or diarrhoea, feeling cold, especially in your arms and legs, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, a slow or irregular heart beat or your medical condition suddenly changes.

Diet and exercise can help your body use its blood sugar better. It is important to stay on your doctor's recommended diet, exercise and weight loss program while taking JANUMET.

Make sure you check your blood glucose sugar levels regularly.

Visit your doctor for regular checks of your eyes, feet, kidneys, heart, circulation, blood and blood pressure.

See you doctor once a year for a check on your body's level of vitamin B12.

If you are about to be started on any new medicine, tell your doctor and pharmacist that you are taking JANUMET.

Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are taking JANUMET.

Things you should not do

  • Do not stop taking this medicine or change your dose without checking with your doctor.
  • Do not skip meals while taking JANUMET.
  • Do not give JANUMET to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you.

Driving or using machines

There is no information to suggest that JANUMET affects your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.

Drinking alcohol

Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.

Looking after your medicine

  • Keep your tablets in the blister pack until it is time to take them.

Store it in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight; for example, do not store it:

  • in the bathroom or near a sink, or
  • in the car or on window sills.

Keep it where young children cannot reach it.

Getting rid of any unwanted medicine

If you no longer need to take this medicine or it is out of date, take it to any pharmacy for safe disposal.

Do not take this medicine after the expiry date.

6. Are there any side effects?

All medicines can have side effects. If you do experience any side effects, most of them are minor and temporary. However, some side effects may need medical attention.

See the information below and, if you need to, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any further questions about side effects.

Less serious side effects

Less serious side effectsWhat to do
  • Signs of an infection of the breathing passages, including runny nose, sore throat, cough
  • Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, diarrhoea or constipation
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches or joint, arm, leg or back pain
  • Itching or blisters
Speak to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects and they worry you.

Serious side effects

Serious side effectsWhat to do
  • Allergic reactions including rash, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat that may cause difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
  • Severe and persistent stomach pain, often with nausea and vomiting. These may be symptoms of pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can be a serious, potentially life-threatening medical condition.
  • Kidney problems (sometimes requiring dialysis)
  • Itching, blisters or the breakdown of your skin (erosion) to serious AEs.
  • Low blood sugar when JANUMET is used in combination with a sulfonylurea medicine or with insulin.
Stop taking JANUMET. Call your doctor straight away, or go straight to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital if you notice any of these serious side effects.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that may be making you feel unwell.

Other side effects not listed here may occur in some people.

Reporting side effects

After you have received medical advice for any side effects you experience, you can report side effects to the Therapeutic Goods Administration online at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Always make sure you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before you decide to stop taking any of your medicines.

7. Product details

This medicine is only available with a doctor's prescription.

What JANUMET contains

Active ingredients
(main ingredients)
Sitagliptin 50 mg and metformin
500, 850, or 1000 mg per tablet
Other ingredients
(inactive ingredients)
Microcrystalline cellulose
Povidone
Sodium lauryl sulfate
Sodium stearylfumarate
Polyvinyl alcohol
Macrogol 3350
Purified talc
Titanium dioxide
Iron oxide red
Iron oxide black
Potential allergens 

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of these ingredients.

What JANUMET looks like

JANUMET 50/500 is a light pink, film coated tablet with "575" on one side and plain on the other (AUST R 149014).

JANUMET 50/850 is a pink, film coated tablet with "515" on one side and plain on the other (AUST R 149021).

JANUMET 50/1000 is a red, film coated tablet with "577" on one side and plain on the other (AUST R 149023).

Who distributes JANUMET

Merck Sharp & Dohme (Australia) Pty Limited
Level 1, Building A, 26 Talavera Road
MACQUARIE PARK NSW 2113
www.msdinfo.com.au/janumetcmi

This leaflet was prepared in October 2021.

WPPI-MK0431A-T-042021

RCN000013428

Copyright © (2021) Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA, and its affiliates. All rights reserved.

Published by MIMS December 2021

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

Janumet

Active ingredient

Sitagliptin; Metformin hydrochloride

Schedule

S4

 

1 Name of Medicine

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride.

2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

Janumet and Janumet XR both contain sitagliptin phosphate and metformin hydrochloride. Janumet tablets consist of sitagliptin and an immediate-release formulation of metformin, and Janumet XR tablets consist of sitagliptin and a modified release formulation of metformin.
Janumet is available for oral administration as film-coated tablets containing sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate and metformin hydrochloride equivalent to: 50 mg sitagliptin as free base and 500 mg metformin hydrochloride (Janumet 50 mg/500 mg), 850 mg metformin hydrochloride (Janumet 50 mg/850 mg) or 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride (Janumet 50 mg/1000 mg).
Janumet XR is available for oral administration as film-coated tablets containing sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate equivalent to 50 mg sitagliptin as free base and either 500 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release (Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg*), or 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release (Janumet XR 50 mg/1000 mg). Additionally, Janumet XR is available for oral administration as tablets containing sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate equivalent to 100 mg sitagliptin as free base and 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release (Janumet XR 100 mg/1000 mg).
For the full list of excipients, see Section 6.1 List of Excipients.

3 Pharmaceutical Form

Janumet 50 mg/500 mg.

A light pink, film coated tablet with "575" on one side and plain on the other.

Janumet 50 mg/850 mg.

A pink, film coated tablet with "515" on one side and plain on the other.

Janumet 50 mg/1000 mg.

A red, film coated tablet with "577" on one side and plain on the other.
Janumet XR consists of a modified release metformin core tablet coated with an immediate release layer of sitagliptin. The sitagliptin layer is coated with a soluble polymeric film that provides taste masking.
Janumet XR is available in the following presentations:

Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg*.

A light blue, bi-convex oval, film coated tablet, debossed "78" on one side and plain on the other.

Janumet XR 50 mg/1000 mg.

A light green, bi-convex oval, film coated tablet, debossed "80" on one side and plain on the other.

Janumet XR 100 mg/1000 mg.

A blue, bi-convex oval, film coated tablet, debossed "81" on one side and plain on the other.
*Presentation not currently marketed in Australia.

4 Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

Janumet and Janumet XR (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate and metformin hydrochloride) are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus when treatment with both sitagliptin and metformin is appropriate.
[See Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties, Clinical trials; Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration.]

4.2 Dose and Method of Administration

Life-threatening lactic acidosis can occur due to accumulation of metformin. Risk factors include renal impairment, old age and the use of high doses of metformin above 2000 mg per day.

General.

The dosage of antihyperglycaemic therapy with Janumet and Janumet XR should be individualised on the basis of the patient's current regimen, effectiveness and tolerability while not exceeding the maximum recommended daily dose of 100 mg sitagliptin and 2000 mg metformin.
Janumet should generally be given twice daily with meals, with gradual dose escalation, to reduce the gastrointestinal (GI) side effects due to metformin. Patients should only be prescribed one strength of Janumet at a time.
Janumet XR should be given once daily with a meal preferably in the evening. The dose should be escalated gradually to reduce the gastrointestinal (GI) side effects due to metformin. Additionally, administration of Janumet XR with food enhances plasma concentrations of metformin. To preserve the modified-release properties, the tablets must not be split, broken, crushed, or chewed before swallowing. There have been reports of incompletely dissolved Janumet XR tablets being eliminated in the faeces. It is not known whether this material seen in faeces contains active drug. If a patient reports repeatedly seeing tablets in faeces, the healthcare provider should assess adequacy of glycaemic control.

Dosage.

The starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR should be based on the patient's current regimen.
Janumet should be given twice daily with meals. The following doses are available:
50 mg sitagliptin/500 mg metformin hydrochloride;
50 mg sitagliptin/850 mg metformin hydrochloride;
50 mg sitagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride.
Janumet XR should be given once daily with a meal preferably in the evening. Janumet XR tablets are available in the following strengths:
50 mg sitagliptin/500 mg modified release metformin hydrochloride*;
50 mg sitagliptin/1000 mg modified release metformin hydrochloride;
100 mg sitagliptin/1000 mg modified release metformin hydrochloride.
For patients using the 50 mg sitagliptin/500 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release tablet or the 50 mg sitagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release tablet, two tablets should be taken together once daily. The 100 mg sitagliptin/1000 mg metformin hydrochloride modified release tablet should be taken as a single tablet once daily.
*Presentation not currently marketed in Australia.
As initial therapy. For patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, whose hyperglycaemia is inadequately controlled with diet and exercise alone, when dual therapy is appropriate, the recommended total daily starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR is 100 mg sitagliptin and 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride. Patients with inadequate glycaemic control on this dose should have their metformin dose increased up to a maximum of 100 mg sitagliptin/2000 mg metformin hydrochloride daily.
For patients inadequately controlled on sitagliptin monotherapy. For patients inadequately controlled on sitagliptin alone, the recommended starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR is 100 mg sitagliptin and 1000 mg metformin hydrochloride daily. Patients may be titrated up to 100 mg sitagliptin/2000 mg metformin hydrochloride daily to achieve glycaemic control. Patients taking sitagliptin monotherapy dose-adjusted for renal impairment should not be switched to Janumet (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).
For patients inadequately controlled on metformin monotherapy. For patients not adequately controlled on metformin alone, the usual starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR should provide sitagliptin 100 mg total daily dose plus the dose of metformin already being taken.
For patients switching from sitagliptin coadministered with metformin. For patients switching from sitagliptin coadministered with metformin, Janumet or Janumet XR may be initiated at the dose of sitagliptin and metformin already being taken.
For patients inadequately controlled on dual combination therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea. The usual starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR should provide sitagliptin 100 mg total daily dose and the dose of metformin already being taken. Patients may require lower sulfonylurea doses to reduce the risk of sulfonylurea-induced hypoglycaemia (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
For patients inadequately controlled on dual combination therapy with metformin and insulin. The usual starting dose of Janumet or Janumet XR should provide 100 mg total daily dose of sitagliptin. In determining the starting dose of the metformin component, the patient's level of glycaemic control and current dose of metformin should be considered. Patients currently on or initiating insulin therapy may require lower doses of insulin to reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate, Hypoglycaemia).
Recommendations for use in renal impairment. No dose adjustment is needed for patients with mild renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2). An eGFR should be assessed before initiation of treatment with Janumet and at least annually thereafter. In patients at increased risk of further progression of renal impairment and in the elderly, renal function should be assessed more frequently, e.g. every 3-6 months.
The maximum daily dose of metformin should preferably be divided into 2-3 daily doses. Factors that may increase risk of lactic acidosis (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use) should be reviewed before considering initiation of metformin in patients with eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. See Table 1 for recommended daily dose.

Janumet.

Janumet is prescribed twice daily.
Janumet is contraindicated in patients with eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (see Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use). Janumet is not recommended in patients with an eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 because these patients require a lower dosage of sitagliptin than what is available in the fixed combination Janumet product.

Janumet XR.

Janumet XR is prescribed once daily.
Janumet XR is contraindicated in patients with eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2. Discontinue Janumet XR if the patient's eGFR later falls below 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (see Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use). Initiation of Janumet XR in patients with an eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 is not recommended. In patients taking Janumet XR whose eGFR later falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, assess the benefit and risk of continuing therapy and limit dose of the sitagliptin component to 50 mg once day.
Discontinuation for iodinated contrast imaging procedures. Discontinue Janumet or Janumet XR at the time of, or prior to, an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR ≥ 30 to < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; in patients with a history of liver disease, alcoholism or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure; restart Janumet or Janumet XR if renal function is acceptable (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Elderly. As metformin and sitagliptin are excreted by the kidney, Janumet or Janumet XR should be used with caution as age increases. Monitoring of renal function is necessary to aid in prevention of metformin-associated lactic acidosis, particularly in the elderly (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride, Lactic acidosis).
Paediatric population. Janumet or Janumet XR should not be used in children and adolescents 10 to 17 years of age because of insufficient efficacy. Janumet and Janumet XR have not been studied in children younger than 10 years of age.
Previous therapies. No studies have been performed specifically examining the safety and efficacy of Janumet or Janumet XR in patients previously treated with other oral antihyperglycaemic agents and switched to Janumet or Janumet XR. Any change in therapy of type 2 diabetes should be undertaken with care and appropriate monitoring as changes in glycaemic control can occur.

4.3 Contraindications

Janumet (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride) and Janumet XR (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride modified release) are contraindicated in patients with:
1. Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2) (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
2. Known hypersensitivity to sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate, metformin hydrochloride or any other component of Janumet or Janumet XR (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate, Hypersensitivity reactions; Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects), Postmarketing experience).
3. Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma.
Janumet and Janumet XR should be temporarily discontinued in patients undergoing radiological studies involving intravascular administration of iodinated contrast materials, because the use of such products may result in acute alteration of renal function (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride).
Janumet and Janumet XR are not currently indicated for use in children below 18 years.

4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use

Janumet and Janumet XR.

Janumet and Janumet XR should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Pancreatitis.

There have been reports of acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal haemorrhagic or necrotising pancreatitis (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)), in patients taking sitagliptin. Patients should be informed of the characteristic symptom of acute pancreatitis: persistent, severe abdominal pain. Resolution of pancreatitis has been observed after discontinuation of sitagliptin. If pancreatitis is suspected, Janumet or Janumet XR and other potentially suspect medicinal products should be discontinued.

Monitoring of renal function.

Metformin and sitagliptin are known to be substantially excreted by the kidney. The risk of metformin accumulation and lactic acidosis increases with the degree of impairment of renal function. Janumet and Janumet XR are contraindicated in severe renal impairment, patients with an eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration; Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride, Lactic acidosis).
Before initiation of therapy with Janumet or Janumet XR and at least annually thereafter, renal function should be assessed. In patients in whom development of renal dysfunction is anticipated, renal function should be assessed more frequently and Janumet or Janumet XR discontinued if evidence of renal impairment is present.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Hypoglycaemia.

In clinical trials of sitagliptin as monotherapy and as part of combination therapy with agents not known to cause hypoglycaemia (i.e. metformin or pioglitazone), rates of hypoglycaemia reported with sitagliptin were similar to rates in patients taking placebo. As is typical with other antihyperglycaemic agents, hypoglycaemia has been observed when sitagliptin were used in combination with insulin or a sulfonylurea (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). Therefore, to reduce the risk of sulfonylurea or insulin-induced hypoglycaemia, a lower dose of sulfonylurea or insulin may be considered (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Hypersensitivity reactions.

There have been postmarketing reports of serious hypersensitivity reactions in patients treated with sitagliptin, one of the components of Janumet and Janumet XR. These reactions include anaphylaxis, angioedema and exfoliative skin conditions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Onset of these reactions occurred within the first 3 months after initiation of treatment with sitagliptin, with some reports occurring after the first dose. If a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, discontinue Janumet or Janumet XR, assess for other potential causes for the event, and institute alternative treatment for diabetes. (See Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects), Postmarketing experience.)

Arthralgia.

There have been post-marketing reports of joint pain, which may be severe, in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Onset of symptoms following initiation of treatment may be rapid or may occur after longer periods. Discontinuation of therapy should be considered in patients who present with or experience an exacerbation of joint symptoms during treatment with DPP-4 inhibitors.

Bullous pemphigoid.

Postmarketing cases of bullous pemphigoid requiring hospitalisation have been reported with DPP-4 inhibitor use. In reported cases, patients typically recovered with topical or systemic immunosuppressive treatment and discontinuation of the DPP-4 inhibitor. Tell patients to report development of blisters or erosions while receiving Janumet or Janumet XR. If bullous pemphigoid is suspected, Janumet or Janumet XR should be discontinued and referral to a dermatologist should be considered for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Lactic acidosis.

Lactic acidosis is a rare, but serious, metabolic complication that can occur due to metformin accumulation during treatment with Janumet (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride) or Janumet XR (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride modified release); when it occurs, it is fatal in approximately 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis may also occur in association with a number of pathophysiologic conditions, including diabetes mellitus, and whenever there is significant tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxaemia. Lactic acidosis is characterised by elevated blood lactate levels (> 5 mmol/L), decreased blood pH, electrolyte disturbances with an increased anion gap, and an increased lactate/pyruvate ratio. When metformin is implicated as the cause of lactic acidosis, metformin plasma levels > 5 microgram/mL are generally found.
The reported incidence of lactic acidosis in patients receiving metformin hydrochloride is very low (approximately 0.03 cases/1000 patient-years, with approximately 0.015 fatal cases/1000 patient-years). In more than 20,000 patient-years exposure to metformin in clinical trials, there were no reports of lactic acidosis. Reported cases have occurred primarily in diabetic patients with significant renal impairment, including both intrinsic renal disease and renal hypoperfusion, often in the setting of multiple concomitant medical/surgical problems and multiple concomitant medications (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration, Recommendations for use in renal impairment). Patients with congestive heart failure requiring pharmacologic management, in particular, those with unstable or acute congestive heart failure who are at risk of hypoperfusion and hypoxaemia, are at increased risk of lactic acidosis.
The risk of lactic acidosis increases with the degree of renal dysfunction and the patient's age. The risk of lactic acidosis may, therefore, be significantly decreased by regular monitoring of renal function in patients taking metformin and by use of the minimum effective dose of metformin. In particular, treatment of the elderly should be accompanied by careful monitoring of renal function (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Use in the elderly). In addition, metformin should be promptly withheld in the presence of any condition associated with hypoxaemia, dehydration, or sepsis. Because impaired hepatic function may significantly limit the ability to clear lactate, metformin should generally be avoided in patients with clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic disease. Patients should be cautioned against excessive alcohol intake, either acute or chronic, when taking metformin, since alcohol potentiates the effects of metformin hydrochloride on lactate metabolism. In addition, metformin should be temporarily discontinued prior to any intravascular radiocontrast study and for any surgical procedure.
The onset of lactic acidosis often is subtle, and accompanied only by nonspecific symptoms such as malaise, myalgias, respiratory distress, increasing somnolence, and nonspecific abdominal distress. There may be associated hypothermia, hypotension, and resistant bradyarrhythmias with more marked acidosis. The patient and the patient's physician must be aware of the possible importance of such symptoms and the patient should be instructed to notify the physician immediately if they occur. Metformin should be withdrawn until the situation is clarified. Serum electrolytes, ketones, blood glucose, and if indicated, blood pH, lactate levels, and even blood metformin levels may be useful. Once a patient is stabilised on any dose level of metformin, gastrointestinal symptoms, which are common during initiation of therapy, are unlikely to be drug related. Later occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms could be due to lactic acidosis or other serious disease.
Levels of fasting venous plasma lactate above the upper limit of normal but less than 5 mmol/L in patients taking metformin do not necessarily indicate impending lactic acidosis and may be explainable by other mechanisms, such as poorly controlled diabetes or obesity, vigorous physical activity, or technical problems in sample handling.
Lactic acidosis should be suspected in any diabetic patient with metabolic acidosis lacking evidence of ketoacidosis (ketonuria and ketonaemia).
Lactic acidosis is a medical emergency that must be treated in a hospital setting. In a patient with lactic acidosis who is taking metformin, the drug should be discontinued immediately and general supportive measures promptly instituted. Because metformin hydrochloride is dialysable (with a clearance of up to 170 mL/min under good haemodynamic conditions), prompt haemodialysis is recommended to correct the acidosis and remove the accumulated metformin. Such management often results in prompt reversal of symptoms and recovery (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).

Hypoglycaemia.

Hypoglycaemia does not occur in patients receiving metformin alone under usual circumstances of use, but could occur when caloric intake is deficient, when strenuous exercise is not compensated by caloric supplementation, or during concomitant use with other glucose-lowering agents (such as sulfonylureas and insulin) or ethanol. Elderly, debilitated, or malnourished patients, and those with adrenal or pituitary insufficiency or alcohol intoxication are particularly susceptible to hypoglycaemic effects. Hypoglycaemia may be difficult to recognise in the elderly, and in people who are taking β-adrenergic blocking drugs.

Use of concomitant medications that may affect renal function or metformin disposition.

Concomitant medication(s) that may affect renal function or result in significant haemodynamic change or may interfere with the disposition of metformin, such as cationic drugs that are eliminated by renal tubular secretion (see Section 4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions, Metformin hydrochloride), should be used with caution.

Radiological studies involving the use of intravascular iodinated contrast materials (for example, intravenous urogram, intravenous cholangiography, angiography, and computed tomography (CT) scans with intravascular contrast materials).

Intravascular contrast studies with iodinated materials can lead to acute alteration of renal function and have been associated with lactic acidosis in patients receiving metformin (see Section 4.3 Contraindications). Therefore, in patients with an eGFR ≥ 30 to < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, in patients with a history of hepatic impairment, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast, Janumet or Janumet XR should be temporarily discontinued at the time of or prior to the procedure, and withheld for 48 hours subsequent to the procedure and reinstituted only after renal function has been re-evaluated and found to be acceptable (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Hypoxic states.

Cardiovascular collapse (shock) from whatever cause, acute congestive heart failure, acute myocardial infarction and other conditions characterised by hypoxaemia have been associated with lactic acidosis and may also cause prerenal azotaemia. When such events occur in patients on Janumet or Janumet XR therapy, the drug should be promptly discontinued.

Surgical procedures.

Use of Janumet or Janumet XR should be temporarily suspended for any surgical procedure (except minor procedures not associated with restricted intake of food and fluids) and should not be restarted until the patient's oral intake has resumed and renal function has been evaluated as acceptable (see Section 4.2 Dose and Method of Administration).

Alcohol intake.

Alcohol is known to potentiate the effect of metformin on lactate metabolism. Patients, therefore, should be warned against excessive alcohol intake, acute or chronic, while receiving Janumet or Janumet XR.

Impaired hepatic function.

Since impaired hepatic function has been associated with some cases of lactic acidosis, Janumet or Janumet XR should generally be avoided in patients with clinical or laboratory evidence of hepatic disease.

Vitamin B12 levels.

In controlled clinical trials of metformin of 29 weeks duration, a decrease to subnormal levels of previously normal serum Vitamin B12 levels, without clinical manifestations, was observed in approximately 7% of patients. Such decrease, possibly due to interference with B12 absorption from the B12-intrinsic factor complex, is, however, very rarely associated with anaemia and appears to be rapidly reversible with discontinuation of metformin or Vitamin B12 supplementation. Measurement of haematologic parameters on an annual basis is advised in patients on Janumet or Janumet XR and any apparent abnormalities should be appropriately investigated and managed.
Certain individuals (those with inadequate Vitamin B12 or calcium intake or absorption) appear to be predisposed to developing subnormal Vitamin B12 levels. In these patients, routine serum Vitamin B12 measurements at two- to three-year intervals may be useful.

Change in clinical status of patients with previously controlled type 2 diabetes.

A patient with type 2 diabetes previously well controlled on Janumet or Janumet XR who develops laboratory abnormalities or clinical illness (especially vague and poorly defined illness) should be evaluated promptly for evidence of ketoacidosis or lactic acidosis. Evaluation should include serum electrolytes and ketones, blood glucose and, if indicated, blood pH, lactate, pyruvate, and metformin levels. If acidosis of either form occurs, Janumet or Janumet XR must be stopped immediately and other appropriate corrective measures initiated.

Loss of control of blood glucose.

When a patient stabilised on any diabetic regimen is exposed to stress such as fever, trauma, infection, or surgery, a temporary loss of glycaemic control may occur. At such times, it may be necessary to withhold Janumet or Janumet XR and temporarily administer insulin. Janumet or Janumet XR may be reinstituted after the acute episode is resolved.

Use in the elderly.

Janumet and Janumet XR.

Because sitagliptin and metformin are substantially excreted by the kidney and because aging can be associated with reduced renal function, Janumet or Janumet XR should be used with caution as age increases. Care should be taken in dose selection and should be based on careful and regular monitoring of renal function (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Monitoring of renal function).

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

In clinical studies, the safety and effectiveness of sitagliptin in the elderly (≥ 65 years) were comparable to those seen in younger patients (< 65 years).

Metformin hydrochloride.

Controlled clinical studies of metformin did not include sufficient numbers of elderly patients to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients, although other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients.

Paediatric use.

Safety and effectiveness of Janumet or Janumet XR in paediatric patients under 18 years have not been established.
Janumet and Janumet XR should not be used in children and adolescents 10 to 17 years of age because of insufficient efficacy. Sitagliptin was associated with an increased risk of hypoglycaemia in paediatric patients on or not on background insulin (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects); Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties, Clinical trials).
Janumet and Janumet XR have not been studied in paediatric patients under 10 years of age.

Effects on laboratory tests.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The incidence of laboratory adverse experiences was similar in patients treated with sitagliptin and metformin (7.6%) compared to patients treated with placebo and metformin (8.7%). In most but not all studies, a small increase in white blood cell count (approximately 200 cells/microL difference in WBC vs placebo; mean baseline WBC approximately 6600 cells/microL) was observed due to a small increase in neutrophils. This observation was seen in most but not all studies. This change in laboratory parameters is not considered to be clinically relevant.

Metformin hydrochloride.

In controlled clinical trials of metformin of 29 weeks duration, a decrease to subnormal levels of previously normal serum Vitamin B12 levels, without clinical manifestations, was observed in approximately 7% of patients. Such decrease, possibly due to interference with B12 absorption from the B12-intrinsic factor complex, is, however, very rarely associated with anaemia and appears to be rapidly reversible with discontinuation of metformin or Vitamin B12 supplementation (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride).

4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions

Sitagliptin and metformin.

Coadministration of multiple doses of sitagliptin (50 mg b.i.d.) and metformin (1000 mg b.i.d.) did not meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics of either sitagliptin or metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pharmacokinetic drug interaction studies with Janumet or Janumet XR have not been performed; however, such studies have been conducted with the individual components of Janumet and Janumet XR (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate and metformin hydrochloride).

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

In vitro assessment of drug interactions. Sitagliptin is not an inhibitor of CYP isozymes CYP3A4, 2C8, 2C9, 2D6, 1A2, 2C19 or 2B6 at therapeutic concentrations, and is not an inducer of CYP3A4. Sitagliptin is a p-glycoprotein substrate, but does not inhibit p-glycoprotein mediated transport of digoxin. Based on these results, sitagliptin is considered unlikely to cause interactions with other drugs that utilise these pathways.
Sitagliptin is not extensively bound to plasma proteins. Therefore, the propensity of sitagliptin to be involved in clinically meaningful drug-drug interactions mediated by plasma protein binding displacement is very low.
In vivo assessment of drug interactions.

Effect of sitagliptin on other drugs.

In clinical studies, as described below, sitagliptin did not meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics of metformin, glibenclamide, ertugliflozin, simvastatin, rosiglitazone, warfarin, or oral contraceptives, providing in vivo evidence of a low propensity for causing drug interactions with substrates of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and organic cationic transporter (OCT). Multiple doses of sitagliptin slightly increased digoxin concentrations; however, these increases are not considered likely to be clinically meaningful and are not attributed to a specific mechanism.
Sulfonylureas: Single-dose pharmacokinetics of glibenclamide, a CYP2C9 substrate, were not meaningfully altered in subjects receiving multiple doses of sitagliptin. Clinically meaningful interactions would not be expected with other sulfonylureas (e.g. glipizide, tolbutamide, and glimepiride) which, like glibenclamide, are primarily eliminated by CYP2C9.
Ertugliflozin: Single-dose administration of sitagliptin 100 mg had no clinically meaningful effect on the exposure of ertugliflozin 15 mg. The geometric mean ratios (GMR) and 90% CI (expressed as percentages) for ertugliflozin AUCinf and Cmax for coadministration with sitagliptin vs. ertugliflozin alone were 102.27% (99.72%, 104.89%) and 98.18% (91.20%, 105.70%), respectively.
Simvastatin: Single-dose pharmacokinetics of simvastatin, a CYP3A4 substrate, were not meaningfully altered in subjects receiving multiple daily doses of sitagliptin. Therefore, sitagliptin is not an inhibitor of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism.
Thiazolidinediones: Single-dose pharmacokinetics of rosiglitazone were not meaningfully altered in subjects receiving multiple daily doses of sitagliptin. Therefore, sitagliptin is not an inhibitor of CYP2C8-mediated metabolism. Clinically meaningful interactions with pioglitazone are not expected because pioglitazone predominantly undergoes CYP2C8- or CYP3A4-mediated metabolism.
Warfarin: Multiple daily doses of sitagliptin did not meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics, as assessed by measurement of S(-) or R(+) warfarin enantiomers, or pharmacodynamics (as assessed by measurement of prothrombin INR) of a single dose of warfarin. Since S(-) warfarin is primarily metabolised by CYP2C9, these data also support the conclusion that sitagliptin is not a CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Oral contraceptives: Coadministration with sitagliptin did not meaningfully alter the steady-state pharmacokinetics of norethindrone or ethinyl estradiol.
Digoxin: Sitagliptin had a minimal effect on the pharmacokinetics of digoxin. Following administration of 0.25 mg digoxin concomitantly with 100 mg of sitagliptin daily for 10 days, the plasma AUC of digoxin was increased by 11%, and the plasma Cmax by 18%. These increases are not considered to be clinically meaningful.

Effect of other drugs on sitagliptin.

Clinical data described below suggest that sitagliptin is not susceptible to clinically meaningful interactions by coadministered medications:
Ertugliflozin: No clinically meaningful change in sitagliptin exposure was observed following concomitant administration of a single 100 mg sitagliptin dose with 15 mg ertugliflozin compared to sitagliptin alone. The GMR and 90% CI (expressed as percentages) for sitagliptin AUCinf and Cmax for coadministration with ertugliflozin vs. sitagliptin alone were 101.67% (98.40%, 105.04%) and 101.68% (91.65%, 112.80%), respectively.
Ciclosporin: A study was conducted to assess the effect of ciclosporin, a potent inhibitor of p-glycoprotein, on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin. Coadministration of a single 100 mg oral dose of Januvia and a single 600 mg oral dose of ciclosporin increased the AUC and Cmax of sitagliptin by approximately 29% and 68%, respectively. These modest changes in sitagliptin pharmacokinetics were not considered to be clinically meaningful. The renal clearance of sitagliptin was also not meaningfully altered. Therefore, meaningful interactions would not be expected with other p-glycoprotein inhibitors.
Population pharmacokinetics: Population pharmacokinetic analyses have been conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes. Concomitant medications did not have a clinically meaningful effect on sitagliptin pharmacokinetics. Medications assessed were those that are commonly administered to patients with type 2 diabetes including cholesterol-lowering agents (e.g. statins, fibrates, ezetimibe), anti-platelet agents (e.g. clopidogrel), antihypertensives (e.g. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, hydrochlorothiazide), analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. naproxen, diclofenac, celecoxib), anti-depressants (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, sertraline), antihistamines (e.g. cetirizine), proton-pump inhibitors (e.g. omeprazole, lansoprazole), and medications for erectile dysfunction (e.g. sildenafil).

Metformin hydrochloride.

Glibenclamide.

In a single-dose interaction study in type 2 diabetes patients, coadministration of metformin and glibenclamide did not result in any changes in either metformin pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics. Decreases in glibenclamide AUC and Cmax were observed, but were highly variable. The single-dose nature of this study and the lack of correlation between glibenclamide blood levels and pharmacodynamic effects make the clinical significance of this interaction uncertain.

Furosemide (frusemide).

A single-dose, metformin-furosemide (frusemide) drug interaction study in healthy subjects demonstrated that pharmacokinetic parameters of both compounds were affected by coadministration. Furosemide (frusemide) increased the metformin plasma and blood Cmax by 22% and blood AUC by 15%, without any significant change in metformin renal clearance. When administered with metformin, the Cmax and AUC of frusemide were 31% and 12% smaller, respectively, than when administered alone, and the terminal half-life was decreased by 32%, without any significant change in frusemide renal clearance. No information is available about the interaction of metformin and furosemide (frusemide) when coadministered chronically.

Nifedipine.

A single-dose, metformin-nifedipine drug interaction study in normal healthy volunteers demonstrated that coadministration of nifedipine increased plasma metformin Cmax and AUC by 20% and 9%, respectively, and increased the amount excreted in the urine. Tmax and half-life were unaffected. Nifedipine appears to enhance the absorption of metformin. Metformin had minimal effects on nifedipine.

Drugs that reduce metformin clearance.

Concomitant use of drugs that interfere with common renal tubular transport systems involved in the renal elimination of metformin (e.g. organic cationic transporter-2 [OCT2]/ multidrug and toxin extrusion [MATE] inhibitors such as ranolazine, vandetanib, dolutegravir, and cimetidine) could increase systemic exposure to metformin and may increase the risk for lactic acidosis. Consider the benefits and risks of concomitant use.

Other.

Certain drugs tend to produce hyperglycaemia and may lead to loss of glycaemic control. These drugs include the thiazides and other diuretics, corticosteroids, phenothiazines, thyroid products, oestrogens, oral contraceptives, phenytoin, nicotinic acid, sympathomimetics, calcium channel blocking drugs, and isoniazid. When such drugs are administered to a patient receiving Janumet or Janumet XR the patient should be closely observed to maintain adequate glycaemic control.
In healthy volunteers, the pharmacokinetics of metformin and propranolol, and metformin and ibuprofen were not affected when coadministered in single-dose interaction studies.
Metformin is negligibly bound to plasma proteins and is, therefore, less likely to interact with highly protein-bound drugs such as salicylates, sulfonamides, chloramphenicol, and probenecid, as compared to the sulfonylureas, which are extensively bound to serum proteins.

4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation

Effects on fertility.

No studies have been conducted with the combined components of Janumet or Janumet XR to evaluate the effects on fertility.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

No adverse effects on fertility were observed in male and female rats given sitagliptin orally at doses up to 1000 mg/kg daily (up to approximately 100 times the human exposure based on the recommended daily adult human dose of 100 mg/day) prior to and throughout mating.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Fertility of male or female rats was unaffected by metformin when administered at doses as high as 600 mg/kg/day, which is approximately three times the maximum recommended human daily dose based on body surface area comparisons.
(Category C)
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women with Janumet, Janumet XR or its individual components; therefore, the safety of Janumet and Janumet XR in pregnant women is not known. Janumet and Janumet XR, like other oral antihyperglycaemic agents, are not recommended for use in pregnancy.
No animal studies have been conducted with the combined components of Janumet or Janumet XR to evaluate effects on reproduction. The following data are based on findings in studies performed with sitagliptin or metformin individually.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Sitagliptin was not teratogenic in rats at oral doses up to 250 mg/kg/day or in rabbits given up to 125 mg/kg/day during organogenesis (up to 32 and 22 times, respectively, the human exposure based on the recommended daily adult human dose of 100 mg). In rats, a slight increase in the incidence of fetal rib malformations (absent, hypoplastic and wavy ribs) was observed at oral doses of 1000 mg/kg/day (approximately 100 times the human exposure based on the recommended daily adult human dose of 100 mg). Slight decreases in mean birthweight and preweaning and postweaning body weight gains were observed in the offspring of rats given sitagliptin at an oral dose of 1000 mg/kg/day from gestation day 6 to lactation day 20. However, animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of the human response. Sitagliptin crosses the placenta in rats and rabbits.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Metformin was not teratogenic in rats and rabbits at doses up to 600 mg/kg/day. This dose is about 3 and 6 times the maximum recommended human daily dose of 2,000 mg based on body surface area comparisons for rats and rabbits, respectively. Determination of foetal concentrations demonstrated a partial placental barrier to metformin.
No studies in lactating animals have been conducted with the combined components of Janumet or Janumet XR. In studies performed with the individual components, both sitagliptin and metformin were excreted in the milk of lactating rats. For sitagliptin, excretion occurred at a milk to plasma ratio of 4:1. Treatment of rats with sitagliptin during pregnancy and lactation caused decreased pup body weight gain (see Use in pregnancy). It is not known whether sitagliptin is excreted in human milk; some excretion of metformin in human milk has been observed. Therefore, Janumet or Janumet XR should not be used by a woman who is nursing.

4.7 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

No studies of the effects of Janumet or Janumet XR on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. However, Janumet and Janumet XR are not expected to affect the ability to drive and use machines.

4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)

Clinical trials.

In placebo-controlled clinical trials, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on metformin monotherapy, the addition of sitagliptin 100 mg daily was well tolerated. The overall incidence of adverse experiences reported in patients receiving sitagliptin and metformin was similar to that reported with patients receiving placebo and metformin.
In an additional, 104-week, placebo-controlled factorial study of initial therapy with sitagliptin in combination with metformin, the adverse reactions reported (regardless of investigator assessment of causality) in ≥ 5% of patients are shown in Table 2.
Adverse reactions of hypoglycaemia were based on all reports of hypoglycaemia; a concurrent glucose measurement was not required. The overall incidence of pre-specified adverse reactions of hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on diet and exercise was 2.8% in patients given placebo, 1.1% in patients given sitagliptin alone, 1.9% in patients given metformin alone and 3.8% in patients given sitagliptin in combination with metformin.
With the combination of sitagliptin and metformin, no clinically meaningful changes in vital signs or in ECG (including in QTc interval) were observed.
Treatment-emergent adverse events were reported in similar numbers across all treatment groups. Over the two-year treatment period, discontinuation due to loss of efficacy was reported more commonly in the 100 mg sitagliptin group than other treatment groups.
Adverse reactions reported in 2% to 5% of patients treated with sitagliptin and metformin in this study and at least 2-fold more commonly than in patients treated with metformin are listed below:

Infections and infestations.

Bronchitis, sinusitis.

Nervous system disorders.

Headache.

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.

Arthralgia.

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders.

Pharyngolaryngeal pain.
Sitagliptin as add-on combination therapy to metformin. In a 24-week placebo-controlled trial of sitagliptin 100 mg administered once daily added to a twice daily metformin regimen (> 1500 mg), there were no adverse experiences reported regardless of investigator assessment of causality in ≥ 5% of patients and more commonly than in patients given placebo. Discontinuation of therapy due to clinical adverse experiences was similar to the placebo treatment group (sitagliptin and metformin, 1.9%; placebo and metformin, 2.5%).

Hypoglycaemia and gastrointestinal adverse experiences.

In the placebo-controlled studies of combination therapy with sitagliptin and metformin, the incidence of hypoglycaemia (regardless of investigator assessment of causality) reported in patients treated with the combination of sitagliptin and metformin was similar to that reported for patients treated with metformin and placebo. Adverse experiences of hypoglycaemia were based on all reports of hypoglycaemia; a concurrent glucose measurement was not required. The incidences of pre-specified gastrointestinal adverse experiences in patients treated with the combination of sitagliptin and metformin were similar to those reported for patients treated with metformin alone (see Table 3).
With the combination of sitagliptin and metformin, no clinically meaningful changes in vital signs or in ECG (including in QTc interval) were observed.
Adverse reactions reported in 2% to 5% of patients treated with sitagliptin and metformin in this study and at least 2-fold more commonly than in patients treated with metformin and placebo are listed below:

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.

Arthralgia.
Sitagliptin as add-on combination therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea. In a trial of sitagliptin as add-on combination therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea (placebo-controlled for 24 weeks, followed by a 30-week active-controlled phase), the only adverse experience reported regardless of investigator assessment of causality in ≥ 5% of patients and more commonly than in patients given placebo was hypoglycaemia (see Table 4). Discontinuation of therapy due to clinical adverse experiences was similar to the control group (at 24 weeks, sitagliptin, metformin, and sulfonylurea, 1.0% vs placebo, metformin, and sulfonylurea 1.4%; at 54 weeks, sitagliptin, metformin, and sulfonylurea, 1.4% vs placebo/pioglitazone, metformin, and sulfonylurea 3.8%).
When sitagliptin was added to metformin and a sulfonylurea, over the 54-week study duration hypoglycaemia was reported in 38 (18.1%) patients treated with sitagliptin + metformin + sulfonylurea compared to 31 (14.6%) patients in the control group (placebo + metformin + sulfonylurea for 24 weeks followed by pioglitazone + metformin + sulfonylurea for 30 weeks). Symptomatic episodes assessed as likely to be hypoglycaemia were reported as adverse experiences regardless of whether fingerstick blood glucose determination was performed at the time of symptoms. Severe hypoglycaemia was noted in 2 (1.0%) patients treated with sitagliptin + metformin + sulfonylurea compared to one patient (0.5%) treated with placebo/pioglitazone + metformin + sulfonylurea.
Adverse reactions reported in 2% to 5% of patients treated with sitagliptin, metformin and a sulfonylurea in this study and at least 2-fold more commonly than in patients treated with placebo, metformin and a sulfonylurea are listed below:

Infections and infestations.

Influenza, nasopharyngitis.

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.

Pain in extremity.
Sitagliptin in combination with metformin and insulin. In a 24 week placebo-controlled study of sitagliptin 100 mg once daily added to ongoing combination treatment with metformin and stable-dose insulin (sitagliptin, N=229; placebo, N=233), the only adverse experience reported regardless of causality assessment in ≥ 5% of patients treated with sitagliptin and more commonly than in patients treated with placebo was hypoglycaemia (see Table 5); the incidence of discontinuation due to clinical adverse reactions was slightly higher than placebo (discontinuation rates: add-on to insulin, with or without metformin, 3.4% vs placebo and insulin, with or without metformin, 1.3%).
Adverse reactions reported in 2% to 5% of patients treated with sitagliptin, metformin and insulin in this study and at least 2-fold more commonly than in patients treated with placebo, metformin and insulin are listed below:

Nervous system disorders.

Headache.
Sitagliptin in combination with metformin and ertugliflozin. The safety of sitagliptin used in combination with metformin and the SGLT2 inhibitor ertugliflozin has been evaluated in 796 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated for 26 weeks in two studies. The incidence and type of adverse reactions in these two studies were consistent with that observed in studies with the individual components, sitagliptin, metformin and ertugliflozin.
Pancreatitis. In a pooled analysis of 19 double-blind clinical trials that included data from 10,246 patients randomised to receive sitagliptin 100 mg/day (N=5,429) or corresponding (active or placebo) control (N=4,817), the incidence of non-adjudicated acute pancreatitis events was 0.1 per 100 patient-years in each group (4 patients with an event in 4,708 patient-years for sitagliptin and 4 patients with an event in 3,942 patient-years for control) (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Pancreatitis). (See also TECOS cardiovascular safety study below.)
In another 24-week study of patients receiving sitagliptin as add-on therapy while undergoing insulin intensification (with or without metformin), the only drug-related adverse reaction reported in ≥ 1% in patients treated with sitagliptin and metformin and more commonly than in patients treated with placebo and metformin was vomiting (sitagliptin and metformin, 1.1%; placebo and metformin, 0.4%).
Adverse reactions reported with sitagliptin. The most common adverse experience in sitagliptin monotherapy reported regardless of investigator assessment of causality in ≥ 5% of patients and more commonly than in patients given placebo was nasopharyngitis.
Adverse reactions reported with metformin. The most common (> 5%) established adverse experiences due to initiation of metformin therapy are diarrhoea, nausea/vomiting, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, indigestion, asthenia, and headache.
TECOS cardiovascular safety study. The Trial Evaluating Cardiovascular Outcomes with Sitagliptin (TECOS) included 7,332 patients treated with Januvia, 100 mg daily (or 50 mg daily if the baseline eGFR was ≥ 30 and < 50 mL/min/1.73 m2), and 7,339 patients treated with placebo in the intention-to-treat population. Both treatments were added to usual care targeting regional standards for HbA1c and CV risk factors. The overall incidence of serious adverse events in patients receiving Januvia was similar to that in patients receiving placebo.
In the intention-to-treat population, among patients who were using insulin and/or a sulfonylurea at baseline, the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia was 2.7% in Januvia-treated patients and 2.5% in placebo-treated patients; among patients who were not using insulin and/or a sulfonylurea at baseline, the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia was 1.0% in Januvia-treated patients and 0.7% in placebo-treated patients. The incidence of adjudication-confirmed pancreatitis events was 0.3% in Januvia-treated patients and 0.2% in placebo-treated patients.
Paediatric population. In a pooled analysis of two placebo-controlled clinical studies with Janumet and Janumet XR in paediatric patients aged 10 to 17 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus, the profile of adverse reactions was comparable to that observed in adults. In paediatric patients on or not on background insulin, sitagliptin was associated with an increased risk of hypoglycaemia.

Postmarketing experience.

Additional adverse reactions have been identified during postmarketing use of Janumet, Janumet XR or sitagliptin, one of the components of Janumet and Janumet XR. These reactions have been reported when Janumet, Janumet XR or sitagliptin have been used alone and/or in combination with other antihyperglycaemic agents. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is generally not possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Infections and infestations.

Upper respiratory tract infection; nasopharyngitis.

Nervous system disorders.

Headache.

Gastrointestinal disorders.

Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal haemorrhagic and necrotising pancreatitis (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Pancreatitis); constipation; vomiting.

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.

Arthralgia; myalgia; pain in extremity; back pain.

Renal and urinary disorders.

Worsening renal function, including acute renal failure (sometimes requiring dialysis).
Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash, urticaria, cutaneous vasculitis, pruritus, bullous pemphigoid (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Bullous pemphigoid), and exfoliative skin conditions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome) have been reported with use of sitagliptin (see Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Hypersensitivity reactions).

Reporting suspected adverse effects.

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after registration of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems.

4.9 Overdose

For information on the management of overdose, contact the Poison Information Centre on 131126 (Australia).

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

During controlled clinical trials in healthy subjects, single doses of up to 800 mg sitagliptin were generally well tolerated. Minimal increases in QTc, not considered to be clinically relevant, were observed in one study at a dose of 800 mg sitagliptin (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties, Cardiac electrophysiology). There is no experience with doses above 800 mg in humans. In Phase I multiple-dose studies, there were no dose-related clinical adverse reactions observed with sitagliptin with doses of up to 600 mg per day for periods of up to 10 days and 400 mg per day for periods of up to 28 days.
In the event of an overdose, it is reasonable to employ the usual supportive measures, e.g. remove unabsorbed material from the gastrointestinal tract, employ clinical monitoring (including obtaining an electrocardiogram), and institute supportive therapy if required.
Sitagliptin is modestly dialysable. In clinical studies, approximately 13.5% of the dose was removed over a 3- to 4-hour haemodialysis session. Prolonged haemodialysis may be considered if clinically appropriate. It is not known if sitagliptin is dialysable by peritoneal dialysis.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Overdose of metformin hydrochloride has occurred, including ingestion of amounts greater than 50 grams. Hypoglycaemia was reported in approximately 10% of cases, but no causal association with metformin hydrochloride has been established. Lactic acidosis has been reported in approximately 32% of metformin overdose cases (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride). Metformin is dialysable with a clearance of up to 170 mL/min under good haemodynamic conditions. Therefore, haemodialysis may be useful for removal of accumulated drug from patients in whom metformin overdosage is suspected.

5 Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Janumet and Janumet XR combine two antihyperglycaemic agents with complementary mechanisms of action to improve glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate, a dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, and metformin hydrochloride, a member of the biguanide class.

Mechanism of action.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate. Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is a member of a class of oral antihyperglycaemic agents called dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, which improve glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes by enhancing the levels of active incretin hormones.
Incretin hormones, including glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), are released by the intestine throughout the day, and levels are increased in response to a meal. The incretins are part of an endogenous system involved in the physiologic regulation of glucose homeostasis. When blood glucose concentrations are normal or elevated, GLP-1 and GIP increase insulin synthesis and release from pancreatic beta cells by intracellular signalling pathways involving cyclic AMP.
Treatment with GLP-1 or with DPP-4 inhibitors in animal models of type 2 diabetes has been demonstrated to improve beta cell responsiveness to glucose and stimulate insulin biosynthesis and release. With higher insulin levels, tissue glucose uptake is enhanced. In addition, GLP-1 lowers glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells. Decreased glucagon concentrations, along with higher insulin levels, lead to reduced hepatic glucose production, resulting in a decrease in blood glucose levels. The effects of GLP-1 and GIP are glucose-dependent such that when blood glucose concentrations are low, stimulation of insulin release and suppression of glucagon secretion by GLP-1 are not observed. For both GLP-1 and GIP, stimulation of insulin release is enhanced as glucose rises above normal concentrations. Further, GLP-1 does not impair the normal glucagon response to hypoglycaemia. The activity of GLP-1 and GIP is limited by the DPP-4 enzyme, which rapidly hydrolyses the incretin hormones to produce inactive products. Sitagliptin prevents the hydrolysis of incretin hormones by DPP-4, thereby increasing plasma concentrations of the active forms of GLP-1 and GIP. By enhancing active incretin levels, sitagliptin increases insulin release and decreases glucagon levels in a glucose-dependent manner. This glucose-dependent mechanism is unlike the mechanism seen with sulfonylureas, whereby insulin is released even when glucose levels are low and can lead to hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes and in normal subjects. In patients with type 2 diabetes with hyperglycaemia, these changes in insulin and glucagon levels lead to lower haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and lower fasting and postprandial glucose concentrations. Sitagliptin inhibits DPP-4 with nanomolar potency (IC50 18 nanoM). It does not inhibit the closely related enzymes DPP-8 or DPP-9 at therapeutic concentrations. Inhibition of DPP-8 or DPP-9 is associated with toxicity in preclinical animal models and alteration of immune function in vitro.
In patients with type 2 diabetes, administration of single oral doses of sitagliptin leads to inhibition of DPP-4 enzyme activity for a 24-hour period, resulting in a 2- to 3-fold increase in circulating levels of active GLP-1 and GIP, increased plasma levels of insulin and C-peptide, decreased glucagon concentrations, reduced fasting glucose, and reduced glucose excursion following an oral glucose load or a meal.
In Phase III clinical studies of 18- and 24-week duration, treatment with sitagliptin 100 mg daily in patients with type 2 diabetes significantly improved beta cell function, as assessed by several markers, including HOMA-β (Homeostasis Model Assessment-β), proinsulin to insulin ratio, and measures of beta cell responsiveness from the frequently-sampled meal tolerance test. In Phase II studies, sitagliptin 50 mg twice daily provided similar glycaemic efficacy compared to sitagliptin 100 mg once daily.
In a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind, double-dummy, four-period crossover two-day study in healthy adult subjects, the effects on post-meal plasma concentrations of active and total GLP-1 and glucose after coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin were compared with those after administration of sitagliptin alone, metformin alone or placebo, each administered for two days. The incremental 4-hour post-meal weighted mean active GLP-1 concentrations were increased approximately 2-fold after either administration of sitagliptin alone or metformin alone compared with placebo. The effect on active GLP-1 concentrations after coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin were additive, with active GLP-1 concentrations increased by approximately 4-fold compared with placebo. Sitagliptin alone increased only active GLP-1 concentrations, reflecting inhibition of DPP-4, whereas metformin alone increased active and total GLP-1 concentrations to a similar extent. These data are consistent with different mechanisms for the increase in active GLP-1 concentrations. Results from the study also demonstrated that sitagliptin, but not metformin, enhances active GIP concentrations.
In studies with healthy subjects, sitagliptin did not lower blood glucose or cause hypoglycaemia, suggesting that the insulinotropic and glucagon suppressive actions of the drug are glucose-dependent.

Effects on blood pressure.

In a randomised, placebo-controlled crossover study in hypertensive patients on one or more anti-hypertensive drugs (including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin-II antagonists, calcium-channel blockers, beta-blockers and diuretics), coadministration with sitagliptin was generally well tolerated. In these patients, sitagliptin had a modest blood pressure lowering effect; 100 mg per day of sitagliptin reduced 24-hour mean ambulatory systolic blood pressure by approximately 2 mmHg, as compared to placebo. Reductions have not been observed in subjects with normal blood pressure.

Cardiac electrophysiology.

In a randomised, placebo-controlled crossover study, 79 healthy subjects were administered a single oral dose of sitagliptin 100 mg, sitagliptin 800 mg (8 times the recommended dose), and placebo. At the recommended dose of 100 mg, there was no effect on the QTc interval obtained at the peak plasma concentration, or at any other time during the study. Following the 800 mg dose, the maximum increase in the placebo-corrected mean change in QTc from baseline at 3 hours postdose was 8.0 msec. This small increase was not considered to be clinically significant. At the 800 mg dose, peak sitagliptin plasma concentrations were approximately 11 times higher than the peak concentrations following a 100 mg dose.
In patients with type 2 diabetes administered sitagliptin 100 mg (N=81) or sitagliptin 200 mg (N=63) daily, there were no meaningful changes in QTc interval based on ECG data obtained at the time of expected peak plasma concentration.
Metformin hydrochloride. Metformin is an antihyperglycaemic agent which improves glucose tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. Its pharmacologic mechanisms of action are different from other classes of oral antihyperglycaemic agents. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilisation. Unlike sulfonylureas, metformin does not produce hypoglycaemia in either patients with type 2 diabetes or normal subjects (except in special circumstances, see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use, Metformin hydrochloride) and does not cause hyperinsulinaemia. With metformin therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and day-long plasma insulin response may actually decrease.

Clinical trials.

Clinical studies of the coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin demonstrated significant improvements in glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes. None of the clinical efficacy studies described below was conducted with Janumet or Janumet XR tablets; however, bioequivalence of Janumet tablets with coadministered sitagliptin and immediate-release metformin hydrochloride tablets and Janumet XR tablets with coadministered sitagliptin and modified release metformin tablets was demonstrated for all tablet strengths, respectively.

Sitagliptin and metformin as initial therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

This study consisted of a 24-week, placebo-controlled Phase A, a 30-week, active-controlled Phase B, and a 50-week active-controlled Extension Phase, where 1091 patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on diet and exercise were enrolled in a randomised, double-blind, parallel-group factorial study designed to assess the safety and efficacy of initial therapy with the combination of sitagliptin and metformin. Patients on an antihyperglycaemic agent (N=541) underwent a diet, exercise, and drug washout period of up to 12 weeks duration. After the washout period, patients with inadequate glycaemic control (A1c 7.5% to 11%) were randomised after completing a 2-week single-blind placebo run-in period. Patients not on antihyperglycaemic agents at study entry (N=550) with inadequate glycaemic control (A1c 7.5% to 11%) immediately entered the 2-week single-blind placebo run-in period and then were randomised. A total of 685 patients entered the 50-week extension study, and among these patients, 517 (74.5%) completed the study. Approximately equal numbers of patients were randomised to receive initial therapy with placebo; 100 mg of sitagliptin once daily; 500 mg or 1000 mg of metformin twice daily; or 50 mg of sitagliptin twice daily in combination with 500 mg or 1000 mg of metformin twice daily. Patients receiving active therapy continued with their assigned treatment regimen until the end of the study, unless rescue (glibenclamide) was required. Patients receiving placebo were switched to 1000 mg of metformin twice daily at the beginning of Phase B.
Initial combination therapy with sitagliptin 100 mg and metformin 1000 mg or 2000 mg daily provided sustained improvements in HbA1c and FPG and 2-hour PPG compared with either corresponding monotherapy dose over 104 weeks; (see Figure 1 and Table 6). An improvement in FPG, with near maximal FPG reduction, was achieved by the 3-week time point (the first time point assessed after initiation of therapy) and sustained over time. A slight upward trend in the reduction in HbA1c was observed during the extension phase in each treatment group. Measures of beta cell function, HOMA-β and the proinsulin to insulin ratio generally showed greater improvement with the coadministration of sitagliptin and metformin compared with either monotherapy alone. Lipid effects were generally neutral. The decrease in body weight in the groups given sitagliptin in combination with metformin was similar to that in the groups given metformin alone or placebo. Mean reductions from baseline in HbA1c compared with placebo were generally greater for patients with higher baseline HbA1c values. The improvement in HbA1c was generally consistent across subgroups defined by gender, age, race, or baseline BMI. Mean reductions from baseline in HbA1c for patients not on an antihyperglycaemic agent at study entry were: sitagliptin 100 mg once daily, -1.14%; metformin 500 mg bid, -1.20%; metformin 1000 mg bid, -1.22%; sitagliptin 50 mg bid with metformin 500 mg bid, -1.65%; and sitagliptin 50 mg bid with metformin 1000 mg bid, -1.74%; and for patients receiving placebo/metformin, -1.11%.
In addition, this study included patients (N=117) with more severe hyperglycaemia (HbA1c > 11% or blood glucose > 15.54 mmol/L) who were treated with open-label sitagliptin at 50 mg and metformin at 1000 mg twice daily for 24 weeks, but were not eligible to enter Phase B of the study. In this group of patients, the baseline HbA1c value was 11.15%, FPG was 17.45 mmol/L, and 2-hour PPG was 24.48 mmol/L. After 24 weeks, decreases from baseline of -2.94% for HbA1c, -7.03 mmol/L for FPG, and -11.54 mmol/L for 2-hour PPG were observed. In this open-label cohort, a modest increase in body weight of 1.3 kg was observed at 24 weeks.

Sitagliptin add-on therapy in patients inadequately controlled on metformin alone.

The combination of sitagliptin and metformin has been evaluated for safety and efficacy in two double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In both studies, patients with inadequate glycaemic control on stable doses of metformin ≥ 1500 mg were randomised to receive either sitagliptin 100 mg per day or placebo in addition to ongoing treatment with metformin.
In one study, 701 patients received 100 mg of sitagliptin or placebo once daily for 24 weeks. This study used the reduction from baseline in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) as the primary outcome variable. Pre-specified secondary endpoints included FPG and 2-hour PPG. The addition of sitagliptin to ongoing metformin treatment provided significant improvements compared with the addition of placebo to ongoing metformin treatment in HbA1c (-0.65%), FPG (-1.41 mmol/L), and 2-hour PPG (-2.81 mmol/L) (see Figure 2 and Table 7). This improvement in HbA1c compared to placebo was not affected by baseline HbA1c value, prior antihyperglycaemic therapy, gender, age, baseline BMI, length of time since diagnosis of diabetes, presence of metabolic syndrome, or standard indices of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) or insulin secretion (HOMA-β). Compared to patients taking placebo, patients taking sitagliptin demonstrated slight decreases in total cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. A similar decrease in body weight was observed for both treatment groups.
In a separate study, 24-hour plasma glucose values were assessed. This study used the reduction in 24-hour weighted mean glucose (WMG) as the primary outcome variable. Twenty-eight patients received either 50 mg sitagliptin or placebo twice daily for 4 weeks in addition to their twice daily metformin regimen. Following 4 weeks of treatment, the difference in glucose lowering efficacy was assessed as WMG based upon collection of multiple blood samples, including those obtained before and after meals as well as overnight. Sitagliptin 50 mg coadministered twice daily with metformin significantly lowered the 24-hour WMG (-1.82 mmol/L) compared to placebo coadministered with metformin. In addition, sitagliptin administered with metformin, compared with placebo administered with metformin, substantially lowered fasting glucose concentrations and demonstrated smaller glucose excursions after all three meals (see Figure 3). In patient-collected glucose measurements, treatment with sitagliptin administered with metformin also provided significant reductions compared to placebo administered with metformin in mean fasting plasma glucose (-1.13 mmol/L), 7-point glucose average (-1.55 mmol/L), and 2 hour post-glucose concentrations (-2.03 mmol/L).

Active (glipizide)-controlled study in combination with metformin.

Long-term maintenance of effect was evaluated in a 52-week, double-blind, glipizide-controlled trial in patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on metformin monotherapy at ≥ 1500 mg/day. In this study, patients were randomised to the addition of either sitagliptin 100 mg daily (N = 588) or glipizide (N = 584) for 52 weeks. Patients receiving glipizide were given an initial dosage of 5 mg/day and then electively titrated by the investigator to a target FPG of < 6.11 mmol/L, without significant hypoglycaemia, over the next 18 weeks. A maximum dosage of 20 mg/day was allowed to optimise glycaemic control. Thereafter, the glipizide dose was to have been kept constant. The mean dose of glipizide after the titration period was 10.3 mg.
Both treatments resulted in a statistically significant improvement in glycaemic control from baseline. After 52 weeks, the reduction from baseline in HbA1c was 0.67% for sitagliptin 100 mg daily and 0.67% for glipizide, confirming comparable efficacy of the two agents. The reduction in FPG was 0.56 mmol/L for sitagliptin and 0.42 mmol/L for glipizide. In a post-hoc analysis, patients with higher baseline HbA1c (≥ 9%) in both groups had greater reductions from baseline in HbA1c (sitagliptin, -1.68%; glipizide, -1.76%). In this study, the proinsulin to insulin ratio, a marker of efficiency of insulin synthesis and release, improved with sitagliptin and deteriorated with glipizide treatment. The incidence of hypoglycaemia in the sitagliptin group (4.9%) was significantly lower than that in the glipizide group (32.0%). Patients treated with sitagliptin exhibited a significant mean decrease from baseline in body weight compared to a significant weight gain in patients administered glipizide (-1.5 kg vs. +1.1 kg).

Sitagliptin add-on therapy in patients inadequately controlled on metformin and a sulfonylurea.

A total of 422 patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on combination therapy with metformin and a sulfonylurea participated in a randomised, double-blind, study designed to assess the efficacy of sitagliptin in combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea. The study consisted of a 24 week placebo-controlled phase followed by a 30-week active-controlled phase. All patients were on a stable dose of metformin (≥ 1500 mg/day) and either glimepiride (≥ 2 mg once daily) or gliclazide (≥ 60 mg [modified-release formulation] or ≥ 160 mg [non-modified-release formulation] once daily) prior to enrolment. Patients were randomised to the addition of either 100 mg of sitagliptin or placebo, administered once daily. Glycaemic endpoints measured included HbA1c, 2-hour PPG and fasting glucose. Another pre-specified secondary endpoint was the number of patients in each group who required therapeutic "rescue" with pioglitazone.
In combination with metformin and a sulfonylurea, sitagliptin provided significant improvements in HbA1c compared to placebo with metformin and a sulfonylurea (see Table 8) after 24 weeks of treatment. The improvement in HbA1c compared to placebo was not affected by baseline HbA1c, type of sulfonylurea, gender, age, race, baseline BMI, or length of time since diagnosis of diabetes. There was no significant difference between sitagliptin and placebo in body weight change. Three of 210 patients (1%) randomised to sitagliptin and 15 of 212 patients (7%) randomised to placebo required pioglitazone "rescue". After 54 weeks, treatment with sitagliptin, metformin and a sulfonylurea continued to provide clinically meaningful improvement in HbA1c relative to baseline.

Sitagliptin add-on therapy in patients inadequately controlled on the combination of metformin and insulin.

A total of 641 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in a 24 week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to assess the efficacy of sitagliptin 100 mg once daily in combination with a stable dose of insulin. Approximately 75% of patients were also taking metformin. Patients on pre-mixed, long-acting or intermediate acting insulin (with or without metformin) were randomized to the addition of either 100 mg of sitagliptin or placebo. Patients with moderate or severe renal impairment and patients with NYHA Class II, III or IV congestive heart failure were not eligible for inclusion in the study. Glycaemic endpoints measured included HbA1c, FPG and 2-hour PPG.
The combination of sitagliptin, metformin and insulin provided significant improvements in HbA1c, FPG and 2-hour PPG compared to placebo (see Table 9). The improvement in HbA1c compared to placebo was generally consistent across subgroups defined by gender, age, race, baseline BMI, length of time since diagnosis of diabetes, presence of metabolic syndrome, or standard indices of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) or insulin secretion (HOMA-β). There was no meaningful change from baseline in body weight in either group.
In another 24-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to assess the insulin sparing efficacy of sitagliptin as add-on combination therapy, 660 patients with inadequate glycaemic control on insulin glargine with or without metformin (≥ 1500 mg per day) were randomized to the addition of either 100 mg of sitagliptin (N=330) or placebo (N=330), administered once daily while undergoing intensification of insulin therapy. Among patients taking metformin, baseline HbA1c was 8.70% and baseline insulin dose was 37 IU/day. Patients were instructed to titrate their insulin glargine dose based on fingerstick fasting glucose values. Glycaemic endpoints measured included HbA1c and FPG.
Among patients taking metformin, at Week 24, the mean increase in daily insulin dose was 19 IU/day in patients treated with sitagliptin (N=285) and 24 IU/day in patients treated with placebo (N=283). The reduction in HbA1c for patients treated with sitagliptin, metformin, and insulin was -1.35% compared to -0.90% for patients treated with placebo, metformin, and insulin, a difference of -0.45% [95% CI: -0.62, -0.29]. The reduction in FPG for patients treated with sitagliptin, metformin, and insulin was -3.0 mmol/L compared to -2.4 mmol/L for patients treated with placebo, metformin, and insulin, a difference of -0.7 mmol/L [95% CI: -1.0, -0.3]. The incidence of symptomatic hypoglycaemia was 24.9% for patients treated with sitagliptin, metformin, and insulin and 37.8% for patients treated with placebo, metformin and insulin. The difference was mainly due to a higher percentage of patients in the placebo group experiencing 3 or more episodes of hypoglycaemia (9.2 vs. 19.8%). There was no difference in the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia.

Factorial study with ertugliflozin (Steglatro) and sitagliptin (Januvia) as add-on combination therapy with metformin.

A total of 1,233 patients with type 2 diabetes participated in a randomised, double-blind, multi-centre, 26-week, active-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Steglatro 5 mg or 15 mg in combination with Januvia 100 mg compared to the individual components. Patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on metformin monotherapy (≥ 1,500 mg/day) were randomised to one of five active-treatment arms: Steglatro 5 mg or 15 mg, Januvia 100 mg, or Januvia 100 mg in combination with 5 mg or 15 mg Steglatro administered once daily in addition to continuation of background metformin therapy.
At Week 26, Steglatro 5 mg or 15 mg used in combination with Januvia 100 mg provided statistically significant improvement in HbA1c and FPG compared to the individual components (see Table 10). More patients receiving Steglatro 5 mg or 15 mg in combination with Januvia 100 mg achieved an HbA1c < 7% compared to the individual components. Treatment with Steglatro 5 mg or 15 mg in combination with Januvia 100 mg also resulted in a statistically significant reduction in body weight and systolic blood pressure compared to Januvia 100 mg.

Ertugliflozin (Steglatro) as add-on combination therapy with metformin and sitagliptin (Januvia).

A total of 463 patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on metformin (≥ 1,500 mg/day) and Januvia 100 mg once daily participated in a randomised, double-blind, multicentre, 26-week, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Steglatro. Patients were randomised to Steglatro 5 mg, Steglatro 15 mg, or placebo administered once daily in addition to continuation of background metformin and Januvia therapy.
At Week 26, treatment with Steglatro at 5 mg or 15 mg daily provided statistically significant improvements in HbA1c, FPG, body weight, and systolic blood pressure compared to placebo. Steglatro also resulted in a greater proportion of patients achieving an HbA1c < 7% compared to placebo (see Table 11).

TECOS cardiovascular safety study.

The Trial Evaluating Cardiovascular Outcomes with Sitagliptin (TECOS) was a randomized study in 14,671 patients in the intention-to-treat population with an HbA1c of ≥ 6.5 to 8.0% with established CV disease who received Januvia (7,332) 100 mg daily (or 50 mg daily if the baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was ≥ 30 and < 50 mL/min/1.73 m2) or placebo (7,339) added to usual care targeting regional standards for HbA1c and CV risk factors. Patients with an eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 were not to be enrolled in the study.
The study population included 2,004 patients ≥ 75 years of age and 3,324 patients with renal impairment (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2).
Over the course of the study, the overall estimated mean (SD) difference in HbA1c between the sitagliptin and placebo groups was 0.29% (0.01), 95% CI (-0.32, -0.27); p < 0.001.
The primary cardiovascular endpoint was a composite of the first occurrence of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or hospitalisation for unstable angina. Secondary cardiovascular endpoints included the first occurrence of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or non-fatal stroke; first occurrence of the individual components of the primary composite; all-cause mortality; and hospital admissions for congestive heart failure.
After a median follow up of 3 years, Januvia, when added to usual care, did not increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events or the risk of hospitalisation for heart failure compared to usual care without Januvia in patients with type 2 diabetes (see Table 12).

Sitagliptin add-on therapy in paediatric patients inadequately controlled on metformin with or without insulin.

Janumet and Janumet XR are not indicated for use in paediatric patients.
The safety and efficacy of the addition of sitagliptin in 220 paediatric patients aged 10 to 17 years with type 2 diabetes and inadequate glycaemic control on metformin with or without insulin was assessed in two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group studies over 54 weeks. The addition of sitagliptin (administered as Janumet or Janumet XR) was compared to the addition of placebo to metformin or metformin XR.
Results from the individual studies were inconsistent. In a pre-specified pooled analysis of these 2 studies, the treatment difference (Janumet/Janumet XR vs. metformin) for LS mean change from baseline in HbA1c at Week 20 was -0.49% (95% CI: -0.90, -0.09) (Treatment Effect estimand) and -0.33% (95% CI: -0.70, 0.05) (Treatment Policy estimand). Efficacy for Janumet/Janumet XR over metformin was not observed at Week 54. These results do not support use of Janumet or Janumet XR in paediatric subjects (10 to 17 years old) with type 2 diabetes (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).

Metformin hydrochloride.

The prospective randomised (UKPDS 34) study has established the long-term benefit of intensive blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes. Analysis of the results for overweight patients treated with metformin after failure of diet alone showed:
a significant reduction of the absolute risk of any diabetes-related complication in the metformin group (29.8 events/1000 patient-years) versus diet alone (43.3 events/1000 patient-years), p=0.0023, and versus the combined sulfonylurea and insulin monotherapy groups (40.1 events/1000 patient-years), p=0.0034;
a significant reduction of the absolute risk of diabetes related mortality: metformin 7.5 events/1000 patient-years, diet alone 12.7 events/1000 patient-years, p=0.017;
a significant reduction of the absolute risk of overall mortality: metformin 13.5 events/1000 patient-years versus diet alone 20.6 events/1000 patient-years (p=0.011), and versus the combined sulfonylurea and insulin monotherapy groups 18.9 events/1000 patient-years (p=0.021);
a significant reduction in the absolute risk of myocardial infarction: metformin 11 events/1000 patient-years, diet alone 18 events/1000 patient-years (p=0.01).

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

Janumet.

The results of a definitive bioequivalence study in healthy subjects demonstrated that the Janumet (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride) 50 mg/500 mg and 50 mg/1000 mg combination tablets are bioequivalent to coadministration of corresponding doses of sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate (Januvia) and metformin hydrochloride as individual tablets.
Because bioequivalence is demonstrated at the lowest and highest combination tablet dose strengths available, bioequivalence is conferred to the (sitagliptin/metformin) 50 mg/850 mg fixed dose combination (FDC) tablet.

Janumet XR.

The results of a study in healthy subjects demonstrated that the Janumet XR (sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate/metformin hydrochloride modified release) 50 mg/500 mg and 100 mg/1000 mg tablets and coadministration of corresponding doses of sitagliptin (Januvia) and metformin hydrochloride extended release (Diabex XR) as individual tablets are bioequivalent.
Bioequivalence between two Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg tablets and one Janumet XR 100 mg/1000 mg tablet was also demonstrated.
In a crossover study in healthy subjects, the total extent of exposure (AUC) and rate of absorption (Cmax) for sitagliptin and AUC for metformin after administration of a single Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg tablet probe formulation and administration of a single Janumet 50 mg/500 mg tablet were similar. After administration of a single Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg tablet probe formulation, the mean Cmax value for metformin was 30% lower and the median Tmax value occurred 4 hours later compared with corresponding values after administration of a single Janumet 50 mg/500 mg tablet, which is consistent with the expected modified-release characteristics for metformin associated with the Janumet XR formulation.
After administration of two Janumet XR 50 mg/1000 mg tablets once daily with the evening meal for 7 days in healthy adult subjects, steady state for sitagliptin and metformin was reached by Day 4 and 5, respectively. The median Tmax values for sitagliptin and metformin at steady-state were approximately 3 and 8 hours postdose, respectively. The median Tmax values for sitagliptin and metformin after administration of a single tablet of Janumet were 3 and 3.5 hours postdose, respectively.

Absorption.

Janumet. After administration of Janumet tablets with a high-fat breakfast, the AUC, Cmax and Tmax for sitagliptin were not altered relative to the fasted state. After administration of Janumet tablets with a high-fat breakfast, the AUC and Cmax for metformin were decreased by 6% and 28%, respectively, and the Tmax occurred approximately 1.5 hours later relative to the fasted state.
Janumet XR. After administration of Janumet XR tablets with a high-fat breakfast, the AUC for sitagliptin was not altered. The mean Cmax was decreased by 17%, although the median Tmax was unchanged relative to the fasted state. After administration of Janumet XR with a high-fat breakfast, the AUC for metformin increased 62%, the Cmax for metformin decreased by 9%, and the median Tmax for metformin occurred 2 hours later relative to the fasted state.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The absolute bioavailability of sitagliptin is approximately 87%. Coadministration of a high-fat meal had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin.

Metformin hydrochloride.

The absolute bioavailability of a metformin hydrochloride 500 mg tablet given under fasting conditions is approximately 50-60%. Studies using single oral doses of metformin hydrochloride tablets 500 mg to 1500 mg, and 850 mg to 2550 mg, indicate that there is a lack of dose proportionality with increasing doses, which is due to decreased absorption rather than an alteration in elimination.
Food decreases the extent of and slightly delays the absorption of metformin, as shown by approximately a 40% lower mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax), a 25% lower area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC), and a 35-minute prolongation of time to peak plasma concentration (Tmax) following administration of a single 850 mg tablet of metformin with food, compared to the same tablet strength administered fasting. The clinical relevance of these decreases is unknown.

Distribution.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The mean volume of distribution at steady state following a single 100 mg intravenous dose of sitagliptin to healthy subjects is approximately 198 litres. The fraction of sitagliptin reversibly bound to plasma proteins is low (38%).

Metformin hydrochloride.

The apparent volume of distribution (V/F) of metformin following single oral doses of metformin hydrochloride tablets 850 mg averaged 654 ± 358 L. Metformin is negligibly bound to plasma proteins, in contrast to sulfonylureas, which are more than 90% protein bound. Metformin partitions into erythrocytes, most likely as a function of time. At usual clinical doses and dosing schedules of metformin hydrochloride tablets, steady state plasma concentrations of metformin are reached within 24-48 hours and are generally < 1 microgram/mL. During controlled clinical trials of metformin, maximum metformin plasma levels did not exceed 5 microgram/mL, even at maximum doses.

Metabolism.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Sitagliptin is primarily eliminated unchanged in urine, and metabolism is a minor pathway. Approximately 79% of sitagliptin is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Following a [14C]-sitagliptin oral dose, approximately 16% of the radioactivity was excreted as metabolites of sitagliptin. Six metabolites were detected at trace levels and are not expected to contribute to the plasma DPP-4 inhibitory activity of sitagliptin. In vitro studies indicated that the primary enzyme responsible for the limited metabolism of sitagliptin was CYP3A4, with contribution from CYP2C8.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Intravenous single-dose studies in normal subjects demonstrate that metformin is excreted unchanged in the urine and does not undergo hepatic metabolism (no metabolites have been identified in humans) or biliary excretion.

Excretion.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Following administration of an oral [14C]-sitagliptin dose to healthy subjects, approximately 100% of the administered radioactivity was eliminated in faeces (13%) or urine (87%) within one week of dosing. The apparent terminal t1/2 following a 100 mg oral dose of sitagliptin was approximately 12.4 hours and renal clearance was approximately 350 mL/min.
Elimination of sitagliptin occurs primarily via renal excretion and involves active tubular secretion. Sitagliptin is a substrate for human organic anion transporter-3 (hOAT-3), which may be involved in the renal elimination of sitagliptin. The clinical relevance of hOAT-3 in sitagliptin transport has not been established. Sitagliptin is also a substrate of p-glycoprotein, which may also be involved in mediating the renal elimination of sitagliptin. However, cyclosporin, a p-glycoprotein inhibitor, did not reduce the renal clearance of sitagliptin.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Renal clearance is approximately 3.5 times greater than creatinine clearance, which indicates that tubular secretion is the major route of metformin elimination. Following oral administration, approximately 90% of the absorbed drug is eliminated via the renal route within the first 24 hours, with a plasma elimination half-life of approximately 6.2 hours. In blood, the elimination half-life is approximately 17.6 hours, suggesting that the erythrocyte mass may be a compartment of distribution.

Characteristics in patients.

Type 2 diabetes.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes are generally similar to those in healthy subjects.

Metformin hydrochloride.

In the presence of normal renal function, there are no differences between single- or multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of metformin between patients with type 2 diabetes and normal subjects, nor is there any accumulation of metformin in either group at usual clinical doses.
Renal impairment.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

An approximately 2-fold increase in the plasma AUC of sitagliptin was observed in patients with moderate renal impairment with eGFR of 30 to < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, and an approximately 4-fold increase was observed in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2) including patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on haemodialysis, as compared to subjects with normal renal function.

Metformin hydrochloride.

In patients with decreased renal function, the plasma and blood half-life of metformin is prolonged and the renal clearance is decreased (see Section 4.3 Contraindications; Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).
Hepatic impairment.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

In patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score 7 to 9), mean AUC and Cmax of sitagliptin increased approximately 21% and 13%, respectively, compared to healthy matched controls following administration of a single 100 mg dose of sitagliptin. These differences are not considered to be clinically meaningful.
There is no clinical experience in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score > 9). However, because sitagliptin is primarily renally eliminated, severe hepatic impairment is not expected to affect the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin.

Metformin hydrochloride.

No pharmacokinetic studies of metformin have been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment.
Gender.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Gender had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin based on a composite analysis of Phase I pharmacokinetic data and on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of Phase I and Phase II data.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Metformin pharmacokinetic parameters did not differ significantly between normal subjects and patients with type 2 diabetes when analysed according to gender. Similarly, in controlled clinical studies in patients with type 2 diabetes, the antihyperglycaemic effect of metformin was comparable in males and females.
Elderly.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Age did not have a clinically meaningful impact on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of Phase I and Phase II data. Elderly subjects (65 to 80 years) had approximately 19% higher plasma concentrations of sitagliptin compared to younger subjects.

Metformin hydrochloride.

Limited data from controlled pharmacokinetic studies of metformin in healthy elderly subjects suggest that total plasma clearance of metformin is decreased, the half-life is prolonged and Cmax is increased, compared to healthy young subjects. From these data, it appears that the change in metformin pharmacokinetics with aging is primarily accounted for by a change in renal function (see Glucophage US prescribing information: Clinical pharmacology, Special populations, Geriatrics).
Paediatric. The pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin (single dose of 50 mg, 100 mg or 200 mg) were investigated in paediatric patients (10 to 17 years of age) with type 2 diabetes. In this population, the dose-adjusted AUC of sitagliptin in plasma was approximately 18% lower compared to historical data from adult patients with type 2 diabetes for a 100 mg dose.
No studies with sitagliptin have been performed in paediatric patients < 10 years of age.
Race.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Race had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin based on a composite analysis of Phase I pharmacokinetic data and on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of Phase I and Phase II data, including subjects of white, Hispanic, black, Asian, and other racial groups.

Metformin hydrochloride.

No studies of metformin pharmacokinetic parameters according to race have been performed. In controlled clinical studies of metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes, the antihyperglycaemic effect was comparable in whites (n=249), blacks (n=51), and Hispanics (n=24).
Body mass index (BMI).

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Body mass index (BMI) had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of sitagliptin based on a composite analysis of Phase I pharmacokinetic data and on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of Phase I and Phase II data.

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

Genotoxicity.

No genotoxicity studies have been conducted with the combined components of Janumet or Janumet XR.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

Sitagliptin was not mutagenic or clastogenic in a battery of genetic toxicology studies, including the Ames bacterial mutagenicity assay, a chromosome aberration assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells, an in vitro rat hepatocyte DNA alkaline elution assay (an assay which measures the compound's ability to induce single strand breaks in DNA), and an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay.

Metformin hydrochloride.

There was no evidence of a mutagenic potential of metformin in the following in vitro tests: Ames test (S. typhimurium), gene mutation test (mouse lymphoma cells), or chromosomal aberrations test (human lymphocytes). Results in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test were also negative.

Carcinogenicity.

No carcinogenicity studies have been conducted with the combined components of Janumet or Janumet XR.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

A two-year carcinogenicity study was conducted in rats given oral doses of sitagliptin of 50, 150, and 500 mg/kg/day. There was an increased incidence of preneoplastic lesions (altered hepatic foci) in both sexes at 150 and at 500 mg/kg/day, and hepatic adenomas and carcinomas in males and hepatic carcinomas in females at 500 mg/kg/day.
Systemic exposure in rats at 500 mg/kg/day is approximately 58 times that of humans at the recommended daily adult dose of 100 mg. This dose level was associated with hepatotoxicity in rats. The no-observed effect level for induction of hepatic neoplasia was 150 mg/kg/day, approximately 19-fold the human exposure at the 100 mg recommended dose. Since hepatotoxicity has been shown to correlate with induction of hepatic neoplasia in rats, this increased incidence of hepatic tumours in rats was likely secondary to chronic hepatic toxicity at this high dose. The clinical significance of these findings for humans is unknown.
In a two-year carcinogenicity study conducted in mice, sitagliptin did not increase tumour incidence at oral doses up to 500 mg/kg/day (approximately 68 times human exposure at the clinical dose of 100 mg/day).

Metformin hydrochloride.

Long-term carcinogenicity studies have been performed in rats (dosing duration of 104 weeks) and mice (dosing duration of 91 weeks) at doses up to and including 900 mg/kg/day and 1500 mg/kg/day, respectively. These doses are both approximately four times the maximum recommended human daily dose of 2000 mg based on body surface area comparisons. No evidence of carcinogenicity with metformin was found in either male or female mice. Similarly, there was no tumourigenic potential observed with metformin in male rats. There was, however, an increased incidence of benign stromal uterine polyps in female rats treated with 900 mg/kg/day.

6 Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List of Excipients

Janumet.

Tablet core.

The film coated tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium stearylfumarate.

Film coating.

The film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: polyvinyl alcohol, macrogol 3350, purified talc, titanium dioxide, iron oxide red, iron oxide black.

Janumet XR.

Tablet core.

All doses of Janumet XR contain the following inactive ingredients: povidone, colloidal anhydrous silica, hypromellose, sodium stearylfumarate, propyl gallate, macrogol 3350, kaolin.
The Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg tablet contains the additional inactive ingredient: microcrystalline cellulose.

Film coating.

The film coating contains the following inactive ingredients: hypromellose, hyprolose, titanium dioxide, indigo carmine, carnauba wax.
The Janumet XR 50 mg/1000 mg tablet contains the additional inactive ingredient: iron oxide yellow.

6.2 Incompatibilities

Incompatibilities were either not assessed or not identified as part of the registration of these medicines.

6.3 Shelf Life

The expiry date can be found on the packaging. In Australia, information on the shelf life can be found on the public summary of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).

6.4 Special Precautions for Storage

Store below 25°C. Store in original packaging.

6.5 Nature and Contents of Container

Janumet is available in the following presentations:

Janumet 50 mg/500 mg.

In PVC/PE/PVDC/Aluminium blister packs of 14 (Starter Pack) and 56 tablets.

Janumet 50 mg/850 mg.

In PVC/PE/PVDC/Aluminium blister packs of 14 (Starter Pack) and 56 tablets.

Janumet 50 mg/1000 mg.

In PVC/PE/PVDC/Aluminium blister packs of 14 (Starter Pack) and 56 tablets.
Janumet XR is available in the following presentations:

Janumet XR 50 mg/500 mg*.

In HDPE bottles of 14 (Starter Pack) and 56 tablets.

Janumet XR 50 mg/1000 mg.

In HDPE bottles of 14 (Starter Pack) and 56 tablets.

Janumet XR 100 mg/1000 mg.

In HDPE bottles of 7 (Starter Pack) and 28 tablets.
*Presentation not currently marketed in Australia.

6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal

In Australia, any unused medicine or waste material should be disposed of by taking to your local pharmacy.

6.7 Physicochemical Properties

Chemical structure.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The chemical name of sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is 7-[(3R)-3-amino-1-oxo-4-(2,4,5-trifluorophenyl) butyl]-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a] pyrazine phosphate (1:1) monohydrate.
The empirical formula is C16H15F6N5O.H3PO4.H2O and the molecular weight is 523.32. The structural formula is:

Metformin hydrochloride.

Metformin hydrochloride (N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide hydrochloride) is not chemically or pharmacologically related to any other classes of oral antihyperglycaemic agents. The structural formula is as shown:

CAS number.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate.

The CAS Registry Number is 654671-77-9.

Metformin hydrochloride.

The CAS Registry Number is 1115-70-4.

Description.

Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is a white to off-white, crystalline, non-hygroscopic powder. It is soluble in water and N,N-dimethyl formamide; slightly soluble in methanol; very slightly soluble in ethanol, acetone, and acetonitrile; and insoluble in isopropanol and isopropyl acetate.
The pH of a saturated water solution of sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate is 4.4. The partition coefficient is 1.8 and the pKa is 7.7.
Metformin hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline compound with a molecular formula of C4H11N5.HCl and a molecular weight of 165.63. Metformin hydrochloride is freely soluble in water and is practically insoluble in acetone, ether and chloroform. The pKa of metformin is 12.4. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution of metformin hydrochloride is 6.68.

7 Medicine Schedule (Poisons Standard)

Prescription Only Medicine (Schedule 4).

Summary Table of Changes