See the DrugPatentWatch profile for januvia
Merck & Co. manufactures Januvia [1]. Januvia is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes [2].
How does Januvia work?
Januvia's active ingredient is sitagliptin [3]. Sitagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor [3]. It works by increasing levels of incretin hormones, which help to regulate blood sugar levels [3]. These hormones stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin and reduce the liver's production of sugar [3].
When does Januvia's patent expire?
The patent protection for Januvia has expired in several regions. For instance, it expired in the United States in 2022 [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expiry dates for medications like Januvia [4].
What are the alternatives to Januvia?
Several other medications are available for type 2 diabetes management, some of which are in the same drug class as Januvia, while others have different mechanisms of action. These include other DPP-4 inhibitors, metformin, sulfonylureas, SGLT2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists [5].
Can other companies make Januvia?
Following patent expiry, other companies may be able to produce generic versions of Januvia. This process typically involves seeking regulatory approval for a biosimilar or generic drug [6]. The availability of generic versions can impact the pricing and accessibility of the medication.