Januvia is a diabetes medication containing sitagliptin and is taken to help control blood sugar levels for people who have type 2 diabetes. Sitagliptin increases the levels of incretins within your body which therefore regulates and increases the release of insulin. Januvia can also decrease the amount of glucose that is produced by your liver when there is too much sugar in the blood. Januvia is for use by adults with type 2 diabetes and should not be used to treat type 1 diabetes.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Januvia can be taken with or without food.
• Januvia is usually taken once a day.
• Make sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly.
• Continue taking this medication even if you feel well.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history especially of heart problems, gallstones, pancreas problems, kidney disease or high triglycerides.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Your dosage may need to be changed.
• If you are breast-feeding.
• If you develop a fever or infection. Your dosage may need to be changed.

Other information you should also know:

• You should avoid or limit your alcohol while using Januvia.
• High blood sugar levels can occur if you skip a dose of your medication, over-eat or do not exercise as much as usual.

Common side effects of Januvia:

• Increased urination.
• Nausea.
• Headaches.
• Sore throat.
• Runny or stuffed nose.
• Joint pain.

If you have any of the following Januvia side effects, seek medical help:

• Little or no urination.
• Severe or ongoing joint pain.
• Heart failure symptoms including shortness of breath (even while lying down), swelling in your legs or feet or rapid weight gain.
• Itching, blisters or a breakdown in your outer skin.
• Pancreatitis symptoms including a severe pain in your upper stomach which spreads to your back, with or without vomiting.
• Symptoms of a severe skin reaction including fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain or a red or purple skin rash which spreads and causes blistering and peeling).
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Januvia?

If you miss a dose of Januvia, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

Can Januvia be taken to treat type 1 diabetes?

No. Januvia is a type 2 diabetes medication.