Sitagliptin Phosphate and Zemplar

• Generic Name: sitagliptin
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Januvia

Used as monotherapy as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Used in combination with immediate- or extended-release metformin given separately or as a fixed combination (Janumet or Janumet XR, respectively) as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus when treatment with both sitagliptin and metformin is appropriate.

Used in fixed combination with ertugliflozin (Steglujan) as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus when treatment with both drugs is appropriate.

Used in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents (e.g., metformin, a sulfonylurea, a thiazolidinedione [peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist]) or insulin as an adjunct to diet and exercise in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who have not achieved adequate glycemic control with one or more oral antidiabetic agents and/or insulin.

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology (AACE/ACE) suggests a DPP-4 inhibitor as one of several alternatives for initial monotherapy in patients with metformin contraindications (e.g., renal disease, hepatic disease, GI intolerance, risk of lactic acidosis). DPP-4 inhibitors also recommended as part of combination therapy, particularly with both postprandial and fasting plasma glucose elevations.

Not indicated for use in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis; insulin is required in these conditions.

• Generic Name: paricalcitol
• Dosage Forms: capsule, liquid filled
• Other Brand Names: Zemplar

Zemplar (paricalcitol) is a synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is important for the absorption of calcium from the stomach and for the functioning of calcium in the body.

Zemplar is used to treat or prevent overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism) in people with chronic kidney disease who are on dialysis.

Zemplar oral capsules are for use in adults and children at least 10 years old. The injection is for use in adults and children at least 5 years old.