provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Januvia Coupon - Januvia 100mg tablet

Januvia

sitagliptin
Used for Diabetes Type 2
Used for Diabetes Type 2

Januvia (sitagliptin) is a prescription medication that helps lower blood sugar in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It works best when you also follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly. It belongs to the drug class called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, or gliptins. Januvia (sitagliptin) comes as a tablet you take by mouth once a day. Side effects include stuffy or runny nose and headache. Januvia (sitagliptin) is a brand-name medication only; the generic version isn't available yet.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on July 11, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Januvia (sitagliptin)?

03:11
Featuring Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD
Reviewed by Daisy Chau, PharmD, Alexandra Schwarz, MD | July 31, 2024

What is Januvia (sitagliptin) used for?

How Januvia (sitagliptin) works

Januvia (sitagliptin) is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. It blocks a protein in the body called DPP-4 from working. This helps insulin stick around in your body longer. It also stops your body from making glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar. Together, this helps control your blood sugar levels.

Are you looking for information on sitagliptin (Zituvio) or Janumet (metformin / sitagliptin) instead?
When does Januvia (sitagliptin) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsJanuvia
Drug ClassDDP-4 inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Januvia (sitagliptin) essentials

diabetes-type-2: senior woman speaking to healthcare professional 1995306981

Sitagliptin (Januvia) and Metformin: When Do You Need Both?

Written by Tegan Smedley, PharmD, BCPS, APh
diabetes-type-2: pharmacist helping a customer 1010456182

Jardiance vs. Januvia: 6 Differences Between These Diabetes Medications

Written by Christina Aungst, PharmD
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$1481.40(save 77.04%)
GoodRx discount
$340.15
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Januvia (sitagliptin)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Headache

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Pancreatitis: upper stomach pain, fever, nausea, vomiting, yellow skin or eyes
  • Heart problems: sudden weight gain; trouble breathing; unusual tiredness; swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs
  • Sudden kidney problems: not urinating, swelling in legs or ankles, feeling tired, trouble breathing, confusion, nausea
  • Severe skin reaction or allergic reaction: rash, blisters, sores, trouble breathing, swelling
When do Januvia (sitagliptin) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Risk of joint pain
Risk of serious allergic reaction
Seek immediate medical care if you experience this side effect.
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

More on Januvia (sitagliptin) side effects

Health: Januvia: side effects januvia

8 Januvia Side Effects and How to Manage Them

Written by Julie Adkison, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Anxiety

blurred vision

chills

cold sweats

confusion

cool, pale skin

depression

dizziness

fast heartbeat

headache

increased hunger

loss of consciousness

nausea

nightmares

seizures

shakiness

slurred speech

unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin

diarrhea

hives or welts, itching, or skin rash

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

loss of appetite

pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

redness of the skin

severe joint pain

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Body aches or pain

cough

difficulty with breathing

ear congestion

fever

loss of voice

muscle aches

sneezing

sore throat

stuffy or runny nose

Less common

Diarrhea

stomach pain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Januvia (sitagliptin)

thumbs-up

Pros

Taken once a day

Not likely to affect your body weight

thumbs-down

Cons

Not for people with Type 1 diabetes

Possible risk of severe joint pain

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Januvia (sitagliptin)

pharmacist

  • Take Januvia (sitagliptin) every day with or without food. Choose a time that works best for you and try to stick to the same time each time. This can be helpful for remembering to take your medication every day.

    • Swallow Januvia (sitagliptin) whole with water. Don't cut the tablets in half. They don't have a score line down the middle to help you cut it. It's generally not recommended to cut unscored tablets. You might not get even halves and you might hurt yourself. Talk to your prescriber if you have trouble swallowing the tablet whole.

      • It's best to avoid alcohol when possible while taking Januvia (sitagliptin). Drinking alcohol can lower your blood sugar when you have diabetes. Drinking too much can also raise your risk of pancreatitis, which could also happen with this medication. If you drink alcohol often and have trouble cutting back, ask a healthcare professional for help.

        • Talk to your care team about ways to plan nutritious meals and exercise regularly. This helps you get the most out of your treatment and keep your blood sugar under control.

          More on Januvia (sitagliptin) tips

          Januvia: portrait man plaid shirt 1027455738

          What Pharmacists Say About When to Take Januvia (Plus 4 More Tips)

          Written by Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh, PACS
          Health: Januvia: man checking blood sugar 1471622237

          6 Ways to Save on Diabetes Medication Januvia with Alternatives, Coupons, and More

          Written by DeShena Woodard, BSN, RN
          faqs

          Frequently asked questions about Januvia (sitagliptin)

          The most common Januvia side effect is cold symptoms, such as a stuffy nose and coughing. These are …  Learn more
          Januvia doesn’t usually affect your kidneys. But worsening kidney function has been reported as a ra…  Learn more
          Januvia is an oral prescription medication that’s FDA approved to treat Type 2 diabetes in adults. I…  Learn more
          Januvia (sitagliptin) is an effective oral medication option for treating Type 2 diabetes in adults.…  Learn more
          GoodRxEducationalIcon

          How to save using GoodRx

          Compare Prices
          1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
          Select your free coupon
          2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
          Show coupon to your pharmacist
          3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
          Get free couponLearn more
          warings-icon

          What are the risks and warnings for Januvia (sitagliptin)?

          Januvia (sitagliptin) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

          risk-warning

          Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)

          Although rare, a few people who took Januvia (sitagliptin) have had pancreatitis, which means the pancreas gets inflamed. It's not clear if people who've had pancreatitis before are more likely to get it again with this medication. Be sure to let your prescriber know if you've had it in the past.

          Stop taking Januvia (sitagliptin) and call your prescriber right away if you have signs of pancreatitis. Watch for upper stomach pain that spreads to your back and doesn't go away. You also might have a fever, nausea, or vomiting.

          risk-warning

          Risk of heart failure

          • Risk factors: Heart failure | Heart problems | Kidney problems

            In a study, some people with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease who took a medication like Januvia (sitagliptin) developed heart failure. It's not clear if Januvia (sitagliptin) has the same risk.

            Before starting Januvia (sitagliptin), tell your prescriber about your full medical history, especially if you have heart or kidney problems. They can check your risk of heart failure.

            Get medical help right away if you have signs of heart failure while taking Januvia (sitagliptin). This includes trouble breathing, feeling very tired, swelling in your body, or sudden weight gain.

            risk-warning

            Sudden kidney problems

            • Risk factors: History of kidney problems | Taking a higher-than-recommended dose of Januvia (sitagliptin)

              Few people who took Januvia (sitagliptin) had sudden kidney injury. Sometimes, they needed dialysis.

              Before starting Januvia (sitagliptin), your prescriber might order blood work to check your kidneys. They'll also check your kidneys from time to time during treatment. If you get any kidney problems, your prescriber might lower your dose or ask you to stop taking it.

              Talk to your care team if you're urinating less than usual while taking Januvia (sitagliptin). This can be a sign of a kidney problem.

              risk-warning

              Low blood sugar when taken with other diabetes medications

              • Risk factors: Also using insulin | Also taking sulfonylureas like glipizide

                There's a higher chance of having low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) if you take Januvia (sitagliptin) with certain other diabetes medications. This is mainly if you also use insulin or take sulfonylureas like glipizide. Very low blood sugar can be life-threatening.

                Symptoms of low blood sugar include feeling shaky, very hungry, confused, or weak. You also might be nervous or anxious, have a fast heartbeat, or sweat. Be sure you know how to spot and treat low blood sugar. Talk to your care team if you're worried about low blood sugar while taking Januvia (sitagliptin).

                risk-warning

                Serious allergic reactions

                • Risk factor: Allergy to DPP-4 inhibitors (also called "gliptins")

                  Some people can have a serious allergic reaction to Januvia (sitagliptin). It can look like a rash, peeling or blistering skin, swelling of the face or lips, or trouble breathing. There could also be other signs of anaphylaxis. Reactions can happen within the first 3 months of starting the medication. If this happens, stop taking Januvia (sitagliptin) and get medical care right away.

                  Tell your prescriber if you've had an allergic reaction to other DPP-4 inhibitors like Tradjenta (linagliptin) or alogliptin (Nesina). You might be more likely to react to Januvia (sitagliptin).

                  risk-warning

                  Joint pain

                  Some people who take DPP-4 inhibitors like Januvia (sitagliptin) have had severe joint pain. This can happen anytime from a day to many years after starting the medication. For most people, the pain goes away after they stop the medication. If you have any discomfort in your joints, speak to your care team right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Severe skin reactions

                  Some people taking Januvia (sitagliptin) have had a skin problem called bullous pemphigoid. It can cause itchy skin, blistering rash, or sores. These usually go away once you stop taking the medication and get treated.

                  If you notice a rash with blisters or itchy skin, talk to a healthcare professional. You might need to stop taking Januvia (sitagliptin) and see a dermatologist.

                  More on Januvia (sitagliptin) warnings

                  Januvia: cropped holding pill glass of water 1302978996

                  Does Januvia Affect Your Kidneys?

                  Written by Nabila Ismail, PharmD
                  dosage

                  Januvia (sitagliptin) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 90 tablets of 100mg of Januvia (sitagliptin) is $996.23 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 32.75% off the average retail price of $1481.40.
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  25mg30 tablets$340.15$11.34
                  50mg30 tablets$340.15$11.34
                  100mg90 tablets$996.23$11.07

                  Typical dosing for Januvia (sitagliptin)

                  The typical dose is 100 mg by mouth once daily.

                  Your dose might differ if you have kidney problems.

                  More on Januvia (sitagliptin) dosage forms

                  Januvia: woman pill organizer 904214810

                  Januvia Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                  Written by Julie Adkison, PharmD, BCACP, CDCES
                  interactions

                  Interactions between Januvia (sitagliptin) and other drugs

                  Januvia (sitagliptin) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Januvia (sitagliptin). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Januvia (sitagliptin) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                  Januvia (brand)
                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $996.23

                  (save 32.75%)
                  View prices & coupons
                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Januvia (sitagliptin)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Januvia (sitagliptin). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Januvia (sitagliptin)
                  Used for:
                  $340.15 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Alogliptin (Nesina)
                  Used for:

                  • Type 2 diabetes

                  $78.03 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Tradjenta (linagliptin)
                  Used for:
                  $344.03 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Januvia (sitagliptin)?

                  Metformin is a common medication that helps manage blood sugar, though its side effects and effectiveness vary. Here are alternatives for metformin.

                  8 Metformin Alternatives for Type 2 Diabetes: Ozempic, Jardiance, and More

                  Metformin is a common medication that helps manage blood sugar, though its side effects and effectiveness vary. Here are alternatives for metformin.
                  Can metformin cause hypoglycemia? Some diabetes medications, like metformin, Ozempic, and Jardiance, have lower risks than others. Learn more.

                  Does Metformin Cause Hypoglycemia? 6 Diabetes Medications With a Low Hypoglycemia Risk

                  Can metformin cause hypoglycemia? Some diabetes medications, like metformin, Ozempic, and Jardiance, have lower risks than others. Learn more.
                  Learn about key differences between Jardiance and Januvia — including costs, uses, and mechanisms of action — to understand which might be better for you.

                  Jardiance vs. Januvia: 6 Differences Between These Diabetes Medications

                  Learn about key differences between Jardiance and Januvia — including costs, uses, and mechanisms of action — to understand which might be better for you.
                  The combination of Januvia (sitagliptin) and metformin can help lower blood glucose levels for people with Type 2 diabetes. Here’s how they work together.

                  Sitagliptin (Januvia) and Metformin: When Do You Need Both?

                  The combination of Januvia (sitagliptin) and metformin can help lower blood glucose levels for people with Type 2 diabetes. Here’s how they work together.
                  Many diabetes drugs cause weight changes. But which drugs cause weight loss, and which cause weight gain? Here’s how metformin, Ozempic, and other meds affect your weight.

                  Which Diabetes Medications Can Cause Weight Loss or Gain?

                  Many diabetes drugs cause weight changes. But which drugs cause weight loss, and which cause weight gain? Here’s how metformin, Ozempic, and other meds affect your weight.
                  A 1-month supply of Januvia, a medication that treats Type 2 diabetes, can cost $500 to $700. Save with coupons, discount cards and other options.

                  6 Ways to Save on Diabetes Medication Januvia with Alternatives, Coupons, and More

                  A 1-month supply of Januvia, a medication that treats Type 2 diabetes, can cost $500 to $700. Save with coupons, discount cards and other options.
                  Recent incretin hormone-based treatments have shown potential to lower post-meal blood sugar levels and are effective for weight loss. Learn more.

                  What Are Incretin Mimetics, and How Do They Affect Weight Loss, Blood Sugar, and Type 2 Diabetes?

                  Recent incretin hormone-based treatments have shown potential to lower post-meal blood sugar levels and are effective for weight loss. Learn more.
                  Cold symptoms, joint pain, and low blood sugar are potential side effects of Januvia (sitagliptin). Learn about Januvia side effects and when to seek help for them.

                  8 Januvia Side Effects and How to Manage Them

                  Cold symptoms, joint pain, and low blood sugar are potential side effects of Januvia (sitagliptin). Learn about Januvia side effects and when to seek help for them.
                  Oral diabetes medications help control blood sugar levels in those with diabetes. Learn the types of oral medications and how they keep glucose levels stable.

                  8 Types of Oral Diabetes Medications and How They Work

                  Oral diabetes medications help control blood sugar levels in those with diabetes. Learn the types of oral medications and how they keep glucose levels stable.
                  The recommended Januvia dosage is 100 mg daily, but this may be adjusted for people with kidney problems. Get info on the max dosage and varying strengths.

                  Januvia Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                  The recommended Januvia dosage is 100 mg daily, but this may be adjusted for people with kidney problems. Get info on the max dosage and varying strengths.
                  images

                  Januvia (sitagliptin) images

                  Beige Round 277 - Januvia 100mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Beige, Round Tablet Imprinted With "277".Beige Round 277 - Januvia 100mg Tablet

                  Get savings updates for Januvia (sitagliptin)

                  Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Januvia (sitagliptin) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                  By providing your email, you consent to receive marketing communications from GoodRx, which may include content and/or data related to men’s health, women's health, reproductive care, or sexual health. You agree to the GoodRx Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

                  References

                  Best studies we found

                  American Heart Association. (2025). Risks for and causes of heart failure.

                  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Treatment of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

                  Dicker, D. (2011). DPP-4 inhibitors: Impact on glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors. Diabetes Care.

                  View All References (6)

                  Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC. (2024). Januvia- sitagliptin tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                  National Kidney Foundation. (2024). Acute kidney injury (AKI).

                  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA warns that DPP-4 inhibitors for type 2 diabetes may cause severe joint pain.

                  White, W. B., et al. (2013). Alogliptin after acute coronary syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes. The New England Journal of Medicine.

                  You and Your Hormones. (2021). Glucagon.

                  You and Your Hormones. (2021). Insulin.

                  GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                  Was this page helpful?

                  Compare other Diabetes Type 2 drugs

                  Alogliptin vs JanuviaGlyxambi vs JanuviaJanuvia vs ActosJanuvia vs AfrezzaJanuvia vs AmarylJanuvia vs ByettaJanuvia vs FarxigaJanuvia vs GlipizideJanuvia vs GlucotrolJanuvia vs GlucovanceJanuvia vs InvokanaJanuvia vs JanumetJanuvia vs JardianceJanuvia vs OnglyzaJanuvia vs OzempicJanuvia vs RybelsusJanuvia vs StarlixJanuvia vs TradjentaJanuvia vs VictozaJanuvia vs ZituvioMetaglip vs JanuviaMetformin vs JanuviaNesina vs JanuviaSaxagliptin vs JanuviaToujeo vs JanuviaTrulicity vs JanuviaFarxiga vs RybelsusGlucotrol vs AmarylRybelsus vs GlipizideTradjenta vs Amaryl
                  View More

                  Browse medications

                  View All

                  Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.