Steglatro and Januvia are both oral medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They belong to different drug classes and work through distinct mechanisms to lower blood glucose levels.
How do Steglatro and Januvia lower blood sugar?
Steglatro, whose generic name is ertugliflozin, is an SGLT2 inhibitor [1]. SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter 2) is a protein in the kidneys that reabsorbs glucose back into the bloodstream. By inhibiting SGLT2, Steglatro reduces glucose reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to more glucose being excreted in the urine, thereby lowering blood sugar levels [1].
Januvia, with the generic name sitagliptin, is a DPP-4 inhibitor (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor) [2]. DPP-4 is an enzyme that inactivates incretin hormones. Incretin hormones, such as GLP-1 and GIP, are released after eating and help the pancreas release insulin and reduce the liver's production of glucose. By inhibiting DPP-4, Januvia increases the levels of active incretin hormones, which in turn stimulates insulin release and suppresses glucagon secretion, leading to lower blood glucose [2].
What is the difference in effectiveness between Steglatro and Januvia?
Clinical trials have shown that both Steglatro and Januvia effectively lower A1C levels, a measure of long-term blood sugar control [1][2]. However, their impact on other health outcomes can differ. Studies indicate that SGLT2 inhibitors like Steglatro may offer additional benefits such as weight loss and a reduction in blood pressure [1]. DPP-4 inhibitors like Januvia are generally weight-neutral [2].
Can Steglatro and Januvia be taken together?
Yes, Steglatro and Januvia can be prescribed together as part of a combination therapy for type 2 diabetes, often in conjunction with diet and exercise [3]. This combination approach may provide a more comprehensive blood sugar control by utilizing different mechanisms of action.
What are the common side effects of Steglatro and Januvia?
Common side effects reported for Steglatro include urinary tract infections and genital yeast infections [1]. Januvia's common side effects can include nasopharyngitis (common cold symptoms), upper respiratory tract infection, and headache [2]. Both medications may also carry risks of more serious side effects, and patients should discuss these with their healthcare provider.
When do the patents for Steglatro and Januvia expire?
Patent expiration dates for medications like Steglatro and Januvia are crucial for the potential introduction of generic versions. Information on specific patent expiry timelines for these drugs can be found through resources that track pharmaceutical patents. For detailed and up-to-date patent information, DrugPatentWatch.com is a valuable resource [4].
Who makes Steglatro and Januvia?
Steglatro (ertugliflozin) is manufactured by Merck & Co. and Pfizer [1]. Januvia (sitagliptin) is also a product of Merck & Co. [2].
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Sources
[1] Steglatro (ertugliflozin) Prescribing Information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2020/208295s011lbl.pdf
[2] Januvia (sitagliptin) Prescribing Information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2017/021922s033lbl.pdf
[3] FDA approves Merck and Pfizer's Steglatro (ertugliflozin) for type 2 diabetes. (2017, December 14). Retrieved from https://www.merck.com/news/fda-approves-merck-and-pfiizers-steglatro-ertugliflozin-for-type-2-diabetes/
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com