About Januvia

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Januvia.

Januvia is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. Januvia works by regulating an enzyme called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) that inhibits release of insulin. When this enzyme is blocked, more insulin is available to use and blood glucose level is decreased. Januvia can not be used to treat type 1 diabetes.

Januvia may be prescribed in conjunction with other oral diabetes medications, or may be part of a treatment for type 2 diabetes that also involves diet and exercise to control blood glucose levels. It is important for patients to monitor their blood sugar. If blood sugar gets too low, eat or drink something with sugar in it to correct the hypoglycemia. Signs of hypoglycemia include weakness, shaking, headache, trouble concentrating, irritability, and sweating. Consuming alcohol can also affect blood sugar level; if possible, avoid consumption of alcohol.

Januvia is less likely to cause hypoglycemia than many other medications for type 2 diabetes. However, other medications that may lower blood sugar, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, probenecid, aspirin, Pepto-Bismol, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, beta blockers, and sulfa drugs can interact with Januvia and potentially cause hypoglycemia.

Side effects of Januvia include congestion, runny nose, sore throat, headache, nausea, stomach ache, and diarrhea. More serious side effects that require medical attention include pancreatitis, and severe skin rash with a fever, sore throat, and headache.