A report published in Bloomberg US states that Januvia, a popular diabetes drug, was found to contain nitrosamine, a potential carcinogen. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said it was allowing Merck to continue to sell the drug which contains higher-than-allowed levels of nitrosamine “in order to avoid shortages.”
Nitrosamine in Januvia and blood pressure meds
Merck, the drug manufacturer, has also confirmed the presence of nitrosamine in Januvia, which is used to control high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes. The drug has been found to be contaminated with nitrosamine since 2018. Metformin, another popular diabetes medication, was among those affected, along with certain blood pressure medications.
Little cancer risk according to the FDA
The FDA allows 37 nanograms per day of nitrosamine in a drug, however, it is allowing up to 246.7 nanograms in Januvia in order to avoid shortages. According to Bloomberg, the agency states “its calculations show the difference in cancer risk is minimal.”
As always, I advise that you should address any concerns you may have after reading this with your doctor. If you suffer from type 2 diabetes or any illness for which medications are prescribed, it is important for you to take them. Do not stop any meds before consulting with your doctor.
A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes can send your life into a tailspin. It can leave you feeling alone and overwhelmed, but it doesn’t have to. Join my type 2 diabetes network group and get the help and support you need.
