If you have type 2 diabetes, your doctor might suggest Januvia (sitagliptin) as a treatment option for you to try.

Januvia is a prescription medication that’s used to treat type 2 diabetes, along with diet and exercise, in adults. Januvia shouldn’t be used by people with type 1 diabetes. It also shouldn’t be used by anyone who has a history of pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas).

Januvia belongs to a group of medications called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It’s a tablet that you take by mouth once daily.

This article describes the dosages of Januvia, including its form, strengths, and how to take the drug. To learn more about Januvia, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers Januvia’s typical dosages, which are provided by the drug’s manufacturer. But when using Januvia, always take the dosage that your doctor prescribes.

Below is information about Januvia’s form, strengths, and typical dosage.

What is Januvia’s form?

Januvia is a tablet that you take by mouth.

Available strengths of Januvia (25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg)

Januvia comes in the following strengths:

  • 25 milligrams (mg)
  • 50 mg
  • 100 mg

Your doctor will recommend the best strength for you to treat your type 2 diabetes.

What are the typical dosages of Januvia?

The information below describes dosages of Januvia that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Typically, the starting dosage of Januvia is 100 mg taken once daily. (This is also the maximum dosage for Januvia.)

In some cases, such as if you have kidney problems, your doctor may recommend a lower dosage of Januvia.

Your doctor may adjust your dosage over time to reach the right amount for you. They will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

Never change your dose or stop taking Januvia without first discussing it with your doctor.

Is Januvia used long term?

Yes, Januvia is typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Januvia is safe and effective for you, it’s likely that you’ll use it long term.

Dosage adjustments

If you have kidney problems, you might need to take a lower dose of Januvia.

In this case, your doctor may recommend that you take 25 mg or 50 mg of the drug once daily. This is because the kidneys break down Januvia in the body. If your kidneys aren’t working correctly, you may get too much of the drug in your body with the typical dosage.

Always follow your doctor’s dosage instructions to help make sure that you’re getting the most out of your medication.

Here are answers to a couple of common questions about Januvia’s dosage.

Could I be prescribed a daily dose of 200 mg of Januvia?

No. You’ll typically take 100 milligrams (mg) of Januvia once daily. Some people with kidney problems may take a lower dose of Januvia each day, such as 25 mg or 50 mg.

In one study, some people took 100 mg of Januvia each day, while others took 200 mg. The study found that the 200-mg dose wasn’t more effective for treating type 2 diabetes than the 100-mg dose. This is why the maximum recommended dosage of Januvia is 100 mg once daily.

You’ll only take your dose of Januvia once daily. You won’t take this medication twice per day.

It’s important to always take your medication exactly as your doctor prescribed it. If you have any questions about how much Januvia to take and how often, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Will I need to take insulin with Januvia?

It’s possible, depending on your condition. Some people can take Januvia alone or with other oral drugs to treat type 2 diabetes. Others may need to use insulin along with Januvia.

While you’re taking Januvia, your doctor will monitor your blood sugar and hemoglobin A1c* levels to see how well the medication is working. If your treatment plan isn’t working well for you, they may recommend that you take insulin.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.

* Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that’s attached to sugar. A test for HbA1c measures what your average blood sugar level was over the past 2 to 3 months.

If you miss a dose of Januvia, take it as soon as you realize that you missed it. Or if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosing schedule.

It’s important to follow the dosing schedule your doctor gives you. If you need help remembering to take your dose of Januvia on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm, downloading a reminder app, or setting a timer on your phone. A kitchen timer can work, too.

The dosage of Januvia you’re prescribed could depend on whether you have kidney problems. (See “Dosage adjustments” under “What is Januvia’s dosage?”)

Januvia is a tablet that you take by mouth once daily. You can take it with or without food.

Your doctor may recommend that you take your dose of Januvia around the same time each day. This helps make sure there’s always a consistent amount of drug in your body.

If you have any questions about how to take your dose of Januvia, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Don’t use more Januvia than your doctor prescribes. Using more than this can lead to serious side effects.

What to do in case you take too much Januvia

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Januvia. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers, or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

The sections above describe the typical dosages provided by the drug manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Januvia for you, they will prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you shouldn’t change your dosage of Januvia without your doctor’s approval. Only take Januvia exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

  • If I become pregnant while I’m taking Januvia, will my dose change?
  • If I’m taking other medications for my type 2 diabetes, can I take a lower dose of Januvia?
  • How will you be able to tell if I’m taking the right dose of Januvia?
  • If Januvia isn’t working for me, should my dosage change?

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Q:

If I have side effects from Januvia, can my dose be changed?

Anonymous patient

A:

It’s possible. You should talk with your doctor about any side effects you’re having. They’ll likely evaluate your blood sugar level from your daily checks and your hemoglobin A1c level. Then they’ll decide if it’s appropriate to change your dose or try a different medication altogether.

Januvia is recommended at a dosage of 100 milligrams (mg) per day. But your doctor may recommend a different dose based on your specific condition. That said, you shouldn’t change your dose without talking with your doctor.

Dena Westphalen, PharmDAnswers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.