The first DPP-4 inhibitor, JANUVIA (Sitagliptin phosphate monohydrate), for patients with type 2 diabetes as add-on therapy to metformin had been introduced in Canadian market recently. JANUVIA inhitbits DPP-4, an enzyme which rapidly inactivates the harmones called ‘Incretins’ (Incretins are hormones produced in the intestines and whose levels rise in response to food. These hormones play a role in regulating insulin and glucagons secretion, and hepatic glucose production), thus increasing insulin release and decreasing glucagons levels in a glucose-dependent manner.
Januvia is used in combination with metformin in adult patients with type 2 diabetes to improve glycemic control whem diet and exercise, plus metformin do not provide adequate glycemic control. However, this medication should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis and not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing women.