Guide to Medicare Coverage for Januvia Diabetes Medication

Januvia assists with blood sugar control for people who have Type 2 diabetes. Get the details about whether Medicare drug plans cover this common prescription.

Januvia is an oral medication that healthcare providers prescribe to help control blood sugar in people who have Type 2 diabetes. These individuals may take this treatment alone or in conjunction with other medications such as insulin. Most Medicare plans cover Januvia for members who need this drug.

What Medicare Plans Cover Januvia?

Medicare members may have prescription drug coverage either through a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan or with a Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) Prescription Drug plan.

While the majority of these plans cover Januvia, members can check their plan's formulary (drug coverage list) to confirm.

How Much Does Januvia Cost With Medicare?

The average cost of this medication for Medicare members ranges from $75 to $175 per month for a supply of 30 tablets. The retail cost of this amount of Januvia exceeds $450 per month.

How Does Januvia Work?

The active ingredient in Januvia is sitagliptin. When a person's blood sugar increases, this DPP-4 inhibitor prevents the liver from creating sugar while also encouraging pancreatic insulin secretion to balance glucose levels. 

Januvia Side Effects

People who take Januvia may experience runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache and other minor cold symptoms. Joint pain may also occur. These side effects are more common among those ages 65 and older. Rarely, more serious side effects occur, including kidney problems, skin blisters, shortness of breath, weight gain, swelling of the extremities and heart failure.

Can Other Medications Substitute for Januvia?

Other prescription drugs that physicians may recommend in place of Januvia include Glumetza, Fortamet, Tradjenta, Nesina, Onglyza, Invokana, Jardiance, Glucotrol and Janumet. Some patients may be unable to tolerate Januvia, take drugs that interact poorly with this medication or prefer a different drug that may be more affordable.

Does Januvia Come in a Generic Version?

The Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved a generic version of Januvia for U.S. release.