Januvia is a drug manufactured by Merck & Co. to treat Type 2 diabetes, gaining FDA approval in 2006. Januvia contains sitagliptin which inhibits the DPP-4 enzymes in the body, destroying glucagon-like peptide-1 which reduces blood glucose levels. Following a meal, incretin hormones are released from the intestine; these hormone levels are then increased in the bloodstream in patients taking Januvia. When the active ingredient found in Januvia blocks DPP-4, the body can better handle glucose levels, increasing the amount of insulin the pancreas produces when excessive blood sugar demand such an increase. During times when the body does not need the excess liver sugars, the DPP-4 will also lower those sugars. When combined with diet and exercise Januvia can significantly improve blood glucose levels in those with Type 2 diabetes.