What is this medication for?
Sitagliptin belongs to the group of diabetes medications called DPP-4 inhibitors. Along with diet and exercise, it is used to lower blood glucose (sugar) levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Antidiabetes medications such as sitagliptin are
used when diet, exercise, and weight reduction have not been found to lower blood glucose well enough on their own. Sitagliptin works by increasing the amount of incretin (a hormone that raises insulin levels when blood sugar is high) released by the
intestine and helps the body use sugar more efficiently.
This medication should be used as part of an overall diabetes management plan that includes a diet and exercise program.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Januvia® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended dose of sitagliptin is 100 mg once daily, taken with or without food.
It is very important to monitor blood glucose levels on a regular basis as directed by your doctor or diabetes specialist.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are
taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to sitagliptin or any ingredients of the medication.