Januvia vs glipizide is an interesting discussion involving anti-diabetic medications.
Glipizide explained
Glipizide is regarded as a potent oral anti-diabetic agent belonging to a group of drug class called sulfonylurea and used only for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Januvia explained
Januvia is the trade name for the active component called sitagliptin, which is also an oral drug for type 2 diabetes mellitus, but it belongs to the DPP-4 inhibitor drug class. Januvia is manufactured by Merck Canada Inc. and can be used as standalone therapy, or in combination with metformin, sulfonylureas, and insulin.
Difference Between Januvia vs Glipizide
Januvia stops the enzyme DPP-4 from breaking down protein components that would stimulate insulin secretion. In other words, it works by increasing the production and release of insulin by the pancreas. It is known to last for about 24 hours.
Glipizide, on the other hand, directly stimulates the pancreas to produce and release insulin. Additionally, it can also reduce the sugar production by the liver, and increase the sugar uptake sensitivity of the body. Through a series of electrochemical reactions, the cells in the pancreas responsible for insulin is induced. As type 2 diabetes mellitus progresses, these cells would deteriorate until no insulin is produced.
For both of these drugs, the cells play a vital role in how they work in the body. This is the same reason why it is not effective in type 1 diabetes mellitus. They are only used during the early stages of the disease. Glipizide is quickly absorbed once in the digestive system and functions within 1 to 3 hours, usually lasting for about 12 to 24 hours. It is usually prescribed at 5mg taken once per day before breakfast, or the first meal of the day.
Januvia can be taken with or without food. It is usually prescribed as a 100mg dose taken once a day.
