Januvia - the most recent drug

Copyright 2002 A.D.A a.m., Inc..

A new oral drug called Januvia (sitagliptin phosphate) has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the management of Type 2 diabetes. It is the first of a new class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors. Januvia lowers blood glucose by blocking an enzyme called dipeptidyl peptidase IV or DPP-4.

DPP - 4 is responsible for breaking down proteins that stimulate the cells after a meal of insulin. If the DPP-4 is inhibited, proteins can activate the release of insulin for a longer period of time, which decreases the level of glucose in the blood.

Diet, exercise and drugs:

Januvia has shown good results in recent trials in combination with other drugs, such as metformin and by itself. It is prescribed for diabetes Type 2 only. For some people, diet, exercise and conventional drugs are not sufficient to maintain blood glucose levels in a number. Januvia has succeeded in clinical trials to help reduce their when traditional methods are not sufficient. Diet and exercise are still important additions to the medical care, however.

Januvia works by extending the stimulation of insulin production. The risk of hypoglycemia is unlikely because Januvia only works when it is needed. For example, if there is no glucose in the blood, then there is no action of Januvia, but after a meal when the glucose level climb, then Januvia will work at this level. In addition, scientists have found that there is little risk to take weight with Januvia, unlike some other oral diabetes medications.

The most commonly reported side effects include infection of the upper respiratory tract, sore throat and headache.

Januvia is processed by the kidneys. People who have decreased renal function may need their dose of Januvia adjusted by their doctor at a lower dose. Renal function should be assessed before take Januvia.

Januvia will be prescribed at a dose of 100 milligrams once a day. The dose can be adjusted based on renal function. He did not need to be taken with a meal, as do some other classes of drugs for diabetes by mouth. Merck & Co., Inc., the company that makes Januvia, fixed Januvia price $ 4.86 per tablet. This works a little less than $150 per month. Januvia should soon be available in pharmacies.