Januvia Treatment for Diabetes - Januvia Paitent Information

Brand Names: Januvia
Generic Name: Sitagliptin

Januvia, sitagliptin, full prescribing information

Why is Januvia prescribed?

Januvia is used to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It can be taken alone or combined with certain types of other medications also used to control blood sugar.

Januvia works by decreasing sugar production and increasing the levels of insulin your body produces, especially after a meal.

Most important fact about Januvia

Always remember that Januvia is an aid to, not a substitute for, good diet, weight loss, and exercise. Failure to follow a sound diet and exercise plan can lead to serious complications, such as dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. Remember, too, that Januvia is not an oral form of insulin, and cannot be used in place of insulin.

How should you take Januvia?

Your dose of Januvia should be taken once a day, with or without food.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Januvia.

• Side effects may include:
  Diarrhea, headache, sore throat, stomach discomfort, stuffy or runny nose, upper respiratory infection

Why should Januvia not be prescribed?

Do not take Januvia if you have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine).

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Special warnings about Januvia

Tell your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have allergies or kidney problems. Your doctor may want to perform blood tests to measure how well your kidneys are working. Also let the doctor know if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Before beginning treatment with Januvia, be sure to tell the doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking.

During periods of stress on the body—such as fever, trauma, infection, or surgery—your medication needs may change. If this occurs, contact your doctor right away.

Januvia has not been studied in children under 18 years old.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Januvia

If Januvia is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Januvia with other drugs known to cause low blood sugar, including sulfonylureas or insulin.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

It's important to maintain normal blood sugar levels while pregnant, but the safety of Januvia during pregnancy is unknown. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

Januvia may be passed into breast milk. If you would like to breastfeed, discuss your options with your doctor

Recommended dosage for Januvia

ADULTS

The recommended dose is 100 milligrams taken once a day. If you have kidney problems, the doctor may need to adjust your dosage.

Overdosage

Although there is little information on the potential results of Januvia overdose, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Last Updated: 09/09

Januvia, sitagliptin, full prescribing information

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