Tackling type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol

A new prescription drug combines sitagliptin and simvastatin in a single tablet. Sitagliptin is often prescribed for persons with type 2 diabetes; simvastatin is often prescribed to help control cholesterol levels.

Marketed as Juvisync, the drug was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Mary H. Parks, M.D., an FDA director, says it is the first product to combine sitagliptin and simvastatin in one fixed dose.

In an FDA news release, Parks adds that Juvisync tablets are available with varying amounts of sitagliptin and simvastatin to meet patients' individual needs. The most commonly reported side effects include upper respiratory infection, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, and muscle and stomach pain.