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Sitagliptin

Brand names: Januvia, Janumet (with metformin)

Sitagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that helps the body release more insulin after meals to lower blood sugar in type 2 diabetes.

Brand namesJanuvia, Janumet (with metformin)
Type of medicineDPP-4 inhibitor (diabetes medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

On its own, it rarely causes low blood sugar and doesn't cause weight gain.

What it's used for

  • Type 2 diabetes

How to take it

  • Take it once a day, with or without food.
  • The dose is lower for people with kidney disease.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Stuffy or runny nose, sore throat
  • Headache
  • Upper respiratory infection
Call 911Severe belly pain that spreads to the back, with or without vomiting (possible pancreatitis)
Call 911Swelling of the face, lips, or throat, hives, or trouble breathing
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Call your provider todaySevere joint pain
Call your provider todayBlisters on the skin (bullous pemphigoid)

Warnings

  • Not for type 1 diabetes.
  • Tell your provider about past pancreatitis or heart failure.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Insulin and sulfonylureas may need lower doses to avoid low blood sugar.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about the best plan for blood sugar in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.