Januvia | sitagliptin 

Drug Class: DPP-4 Inhibitor
Similar Drugs: Sitagliptin (Januvia), Saxagliptin (Onglyza), Linagliptin (Tradjenta), Alogliptin (Nesina)
Manufacturer: Merck
Approval Date: March 2007

What is Januvia

Januvia (generic name is sitagliptin) reduces blood glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes by inhibiting the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). DPP-4 inhibitors increase the amount of two proteins (incretin hormones) found in the body, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). Incretin hormones tell the body to release insulin and lower blood glucose. GLP-1 also decreases the production of glucose and slows down the absorption of glucose.

Incretin hormones are removed from the body by an DPP-4. DPP-4 inhibitors like Januvia block this enzyme resulting in GLP-1 and GIP to stay in the body longer and therefore decrease blood glucose levels.

What is Januvia used for

Januvia is used for treating type 2 diabetes in combination with diet and exercise. It is not used for treating type 1 diabetes. It can be combined with metformin or sulfonylurea.

How effective is Januvia

• Januvia reduced hemoglobin A1C by -0.6% after 24 weeks while A1C increased by 0.2% in the placebo group.
• 36% of individuals treated with Januvia achieved A1C less than 7% after 24 weeks compared to 14% of individuals treated with placebo.

What are interesting facts about Januvia

• Januvia is excreted by the kidneys
• Januvia is administered orally once daily
• Does not cause weight gain
• Low risk of hypoglycemia

Januvia dose & administration

Januvia is supplied as 25, 50, and 100 mg tablets. A generic version is not available. The recommended dosage is 100 mg once orally daily. The dose may be reduced in people with poor kidney function.

What are the side effects of Januvia

Common: Stomach upset, diarrhea, runny nose, sore throat, upper respiratory infection, headache.

Serious: Pancreatitis, allergic reactions (hives, rash, swelling of lips, face, throat and tongue), hypoglycemia (when combined with other agents).

Januvia Drug interactions

Combining Januvia with other drugs that reduce blood glucose may increase the occurrence of hypoglycemia. Januvia has a low risk of drug interactions.

What is the cost of Januvia

Cost between $11 and $14 per tablet per tablet.

How to obtain prescription assistance for Januvia

To obtain prescription assistance for Januvia contact Merck Helps.

References: Januvia FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.

The material on this site is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by a qualified health care provider.

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