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Januvia: 7 Pharmacist-Approved Answers About the Diabetes Medication
Pharmacist-Approved Information on Januvia Side Effects and Usage
Reviewed by Julia Schink, Pharmacist,
Januvia (Sitagliptin) is an oral medication approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) that helps regulate blood sugar levels. In combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise, Januvia helps control blood sugar. It supports the body in regulating blood sugar and facilitates diabetes management.
The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.
What is Januvia?
Januvia is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It belongs to the class of DPP-4 inhibitors, which help the body regulate blood sugar more effectively.
Who is Januvia suitable for?
Januvia is intended for adults with type 2 diabetes who need additional support in controlling their blood sugar. It is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes or those with diabetic ketoacidosis.
How does Januvia work?
Januvia helps the body control blood sugar by:
Increasing insulin levels when blood sugar is high
Reducing glucose production in the liver when blood sugar is low
Keeping blood sugar levels stable throughout the day
How is Januvia taken?
Januvia is taken once daily as a tablet
It can be taken with or without food
💡 Always follow your doctor's instructions and combine Januvia with a healthy lifestyle.
What are the possible side effects of Januvia?
Like all medications, Januvia can cause side effects. Most people tolerate it well, but some may experience the following:
Mild side effects:
Headaches
Upper respiratory infections (e.g., colds)
Stomach discomfort or nausea
Rare but serious side effects:
Severe abdominal pain (possible sign of pancreatitis)
Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or breathing difficulties
Kidney problems (especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease)
💡 If severe side effects occur, a doctor should be contacted immediately.
Are Januvia and Metformin the same?
No, Januvia and Metformin work differently:
Metformin lowers blood sugar by reducing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity
Januvia supports blood sugar regulation by increasing cretin hormone levels (glucagon-like peptide 1) and reducing glucose production in the liver
💡 Doctors sometimes prescribe both medications together for better blood sugar control.
When can improvements be expected with Januvia treatment?
Most patients notice an improvement in their blood sugar levels within a few weeks of taking Januvia. However, it may take 2–3 months for the full effect to develop.
Are there digital tools to support diabetes management?
Yes! Managing diabetes can be made easier with digital tools like MyTherapy. These apps help maintain a medication schedule, monitor blood sugar levels, and ensure regular medication intake with reliable reminders. Such applications can improve treatment adherence and contribute to better health outcomes.
The content on this page is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, you should talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are taking multiple medications or have any existing medical conditions.