How does Januvia Work?

Januvia, also known as sitagliptin phosphate, is a diabetes medication that can help to control blood sugar levels. This medication increases the levels of incretins, a natural substance within the body. Incretins help to control blood sugar levels by regulating and increasing the release of insulin, especially after eating. Januvia also signals to the liver to stop producing glucose when there is too much sugar already in the blood. The medication sitagliptin works by increasing insulin release. Incretin hormones are released by the intestine throughout the day in response to food and Januvia also slows the inactivation of these hormones which decreases glucagon levels in the body.

What is Januvia used for?

Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body does not produce or use insulin normally resulting in the body’s blood sugar level being too high. Januvia is used for adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control and is not used for treating insulin-dependent or type 1 diabetes. Januvia may be used in combination with other diabetes medications and should be used in addition to diet and exercise to control blood glucose levels.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Januvia should be taken orally once daily, with or without food. It is beneficial to take the medication at a similar time each day.
• Sitagliptin regulates your blood sugar levels but does not cure diabetes. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. You should not stop taking Januvia without consultation with a doctor.
• If you miss a dosage, take the medicine as soon as you can within the same day. If it is almost time for the next dosage, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
• Check your blood sugar regularly as directed by your doctor and keep track of the results. You should inform your doctor if your blood sugar measurements are consistently too low or high as your treatment may need to be changed.
• Store Januvia at room temperature away from moisture, heat and light.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• If you have ever had kidney disease, heart problems, gallstones, high triglycerides or pancreas problems.
• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Blood sugar control is very important throughout pregnancy. Your dosage may need to be different throughout pregnancy.

Also be aware that:

• Alcohol may increase your risk of developing low blood sugar levels resulting in unconsciousness. Alcohol should therefore be limited while taking Januvia.
• High blood sugar levels may occur if you skip a dose of your medication, over-eat or do not exercise as much as usual.
• If you develop a fever or infection, your blood sugar levels may change and your dosage altered.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Stuffed or runny nose or sore throat.
• Headaches or joint pains
• Nausea
• Increased urination

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Ongoing pain beginning in the middle or left of the stomach which may also spread to the back.
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Rashes, hives or a swelling of face, lips or tongue.
• Difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
• Severe dizziness
• Loss of appetite.

Q: What is the recommended dosage for Januvia?

A: For adults, the most frequently prescribed dosage for Januvia is usually 100mg although it also comes in 25mg and 50mg strengths. The dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to medication.  It is usually prescribed to be taken once daily with or without food.

Q: Which form of diabetes is this medication prescribed for?

A: Januvia is prescribed to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes and is not used for treating type 1 diabetes.

Q: How should I manage my type 2 diabetes while taking Januvia?

A: Januvia helps to regulate blood sugar levels but does not cure diabetes. You should continue to monitor and record your blood sugar levels and inform your doctor if your levels are consistently too high or low. This medication can be used alongside other diabetes medications and should be used alongside diet and exercise in order to control blood sugar levels.

Q: Is there a generic alternative available to Januvia?

A: There is currently no therapeutically equivalent generic alternative to Januvia.