DPP-4 inhibitorPrescription only
Sitagliptin
Tablet
Quick Summary
Sitagliptin boosts the body's own hormones that release insulin after meals.
Type 2 diabetes
Medical Uses
Type 2 diabetes: Alone or with metformin.
How it's taken
Usually taken once or twice a day, with or without food.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you and how long to take it.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Headache
Sometimes.
Cold-like symptoms
Sometimes.
Joint pain
Rarely.
Interactions
Sulfonylureas or insulin
Low sugar risk increases.
Critical Warnings
Severe tummy pain
Black Box Warning: Could be pancreatitis: seek help.
Kidney or liver problems
Dose adjustment.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Sitagliptin: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Sitagliptin: medicine to treat type 2 diabetes(opens in a new tab) · NHS