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Januvia and Hemoglobin A1c
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a test used to measure long-term blood sugar control. For people without diabetes, HbA1c results are usually less than 6 percent, while people with diabetes usually have higher results. In one study, people taking Januvia lowered their HbA1c by 0.6 percent on average, while HbA1c results increased by 0.2 percent in people not taking the drug.
Studies have shown that the higher the HbA1c, the greater the chance for developing long-term problems related to diabetes. This includes problems such as heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic neuropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. By getting blood sugar levels under control with Januvia, it may be possible to decrease the chances for developing these diabetes complications.
Januvia and Blood Sugar Levels
In studies, Januvia lowered fasting blood sugar by 13 mg/dL on average. It also lowered postprandial blood sugar (blood sugar after a meal) by 49 mg/dL on average.
Some general considerations for when and how to take Januvia include the following:
- The drug comes in tablet form. It should be taken by mouth once a day.
- You may take it with or without food. If it bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- The tablets may be broken or crushed if necessary.
- Take your dose at the same time each day. This will help to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For the drug to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- How well your diabetes is controlled
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
(Click Januvia Dosing for more information about dosing for this medication.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD