Why is Januvia prescribed?

Januvia (Sitagliptin Phosphate) is a drug used, alongside proper diet and exercise, to regulate blood sugar levels in those with Type 2 diabetes. Sitagliptin works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the body that lower blood sugar when it gets too high. Specifically, it helps to regulate the insulin produced by your body after you eat. Januvia is one important precaution diabetes and high blood sugar patients can take to avoid developing any serious health complications. Using this medication regularly as well as improving your diet and exercise routine may decrease the chances of heart attack, stroke, and many other life-threatening complications. Ensure you speak with your doctor and/or pharmacist about developing an action plan for this course of treatment. 

What is the most effective way to take Januvia?

Use Januvia exactly as directed by your doctor. Ensure you read and understand all the information provided to you by your doctor and/or pharmacist. 

• Take the tablet orally, usually, once daily
• Take with or without food
• Continue to take even if you feel well
• Do not stop taking sitagliptin without talking to your doctor

Note:

• Januvia does not cure diabetes, it only helps to control high blood sugar 

Before using Januvia,

• tell your doctor if you are allergic to Sitagliptin, or any other drug allergies you do have
• tell your doctor about every other medication you are taking or plan to take (including nonprescription and herbal products)
• tell your doctor about your current and past medical condition such as: a history of drinking excessive alcohol; diabetes; gallstones; kidney disease, etc.
• tell your doctor if you are or plan to become pregnant
• tell your doctor if you plan to breast-feed

Do not use Sitagliptin if:

• you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious condition that may occur when blood sugar is too high) - call your doctor for treatment
• you have any signs of heart failure - including shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, or swelling in legs/feet 
• you have any signs of pancreatitis - including severe pain in your upper stomach area and back

Common side effects include but are not limited to:

• headache
• flu-like symptoms such as runny nose

More serious side effects can occur. STOP taking Januvia and tell your doctor immediately if you experience:

• severe joint pain
• severe autoimmune reaction - including itching, blisters, or breakdown of the outer skin layer
• any signs of an allergic reaction - including hives, difficulty breathing, etc.
• any signs of a severe skin reaction - including fever, burning in eyes, skin pain, etc 

Why is Januvia prescribed?

Januvia is a diabetes medication used to regulate and control blood sugar levels in those with Type 2 diabetes. It may be prescribed for other reasons, talk to your doctor for more details. 

How long until I see the results of Januvia?

As long as you are taking Januvia regularly/as directed, you should start to see some benefits within a week's time.

What if I miss a dose of Januvia?

Skip the dose if it is close to the time of your next one. But don't take two to make up for the missed dose.