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Medically Verified MonographPrescriptionClass: Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) Inhibitor

Januvia

Generic Name: Sitagliptin

Common Brand Names: Januvia
Dosage Form:Oral Tablets
Route:Oral
Pregnancy Category:Category B
Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:

You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.

Uses & Medical Indications

Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Medical Conditions Treated:

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

100 mg orally once daily with or without food.

Pediatric Dosage

Safety and effectiveness not established in pediatric patients under 18.

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Dose based on renal function.

Maximum Dose Limit

100 mg daily.

Renal Impairment:

eGFR 30 to <45: 50 mg daily. eGFR <30: 25 mg daily.

Hepatic Impairment:

No dose adjustment for mild to moderate hepatic impairment.

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, headache.

Serious Adverse Reactions

Pancreatitis, severe arthralgia, bullous pemphigoid, heart failure.

Contraindications:

History of serious hypersensitivity reaction to sitagliptin.

Important Warnings & Precautions:

Risk of acute pancreatitis; monitor for persistent severe abdominal pain.

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Digoxin (slight increase in digoxin concentrations), insulin/sulfonylureas (increased hypoglycemia risk).

Food & Dietary Interactions:

None significant.

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

Limit alcohol consumption to avoid hypoglycemia.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Caution advised; unknown if excreted in human milk.

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Report severe persistent stomach pain immediately.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered. Do not double up doses.

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

HbA1c, renal function, signs/symptoms of pancreatitis.

Trustworthy Sources & Medical Review

Content for Januvia was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
  • World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
  • Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
  • National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
Reviewer Credentials: PharmD, Clinical PharmacologistLast Reviewed Date: 9/21/2026

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.