Januvia vs Generic Sitagliptin: How Americans Can Save by Ordering from Canada

May 11, 2025
Jason K

For many Americans with type 2 diabetes, Januvia (sitagliptin) is a trusted medication that helps control blood sugar levels. But with retail prices exceeding $500 per month in the U.S. without insurance, patients often look for more affordable options—especially if they’re paying out of pocket or stuck in the Medicare Part D “donut hole.”

The good news? A generic version of Januvia—sitagliptin—is available in Canada at a fraction of the U.S. price. In this article, we’ll compare Januvia vs generic sitagliptin, break down the cost savings, and explain how Americans can safely and order their medication from Canada.

What Is Januvia (Sitagliptin)?

Januvia is a DPP-4 inhibitor, used to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by increasing insulin release after meals and decreasing the amount of sugar made by the liver.

It’s typically taken once daily
Often used alone or alongside metformin or other antidiabetic drugs
It’s not used for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

Is There a Generic for Januvia?

In the United States, no generic version of Januvia is widely available yet. However, Canada does offer a Health Canada-approved generic version of sitagliptin, which is the same active ingredient.

Januvia is the brand name
Sitagliptin is the generic name
Both contain the same dosage, strength, and active ingredient

The main difference is in cost, and it’s substantial.

Shop generic januvia for $128.95 for 100 tablets

Price Comparison: Januvia vs Generic Sitagliptin

Here’s how the pricing compares between the U.S. and Canada:

Medication	Quantity	Price from Canada (USD)	Approx. U.S. Retail Price
Januvia	30 tablets (100 mg)	$140.00	$500+
Generic Sitagliptin	100 tablets (100 mg)	$128.95	Not available

With generic sitagliptin from Canada, you pay less for over three times the quantity compared to one month of branded Januvia in the U.S.

Why Is Generic Sitagliptin Cheaper in Canada?

Canada regulates prescription drug prices, which prevents pharmaceutical companies from charging the inflated amounts often seen in the U.S. Once a drug’s patent expires in Canada, generic manufacturers can produce and sell the same medication at lower prices.

While the U.S. has strict delays and limited generic availability for certain drugs, Canadians already benefit from affordable alternatives like sitagliptin.

Can Americans Order Sitagliptin from Canada?

Yes, you can order a 90-day supply of prescription medication for personal use from a licensed Canadian pharmacy, if you have a valid U.S. prescription.

Services like Over the Border Meds help Americans connect with Canadian pharmacies to access lower-cost medications safely.

To order:

1. Ask your doctor to prescribe sitagliptin or Januvia, depending on what you’re comfortable with

2. Upload your prescription here:
https://overthebordermeds.com/upload-prescription-document/

3. A 90-day supply will be shipped directly to your U.S. address

4. No Canadian prescription, duty, or import tax is required

Who Can Benefit Most from Ordering Sitagliptin from Canada?

Uninsured patients paying full cash prices
Medicare patients in the coverage gap (donut hole)
High-deductible plan holders looking to lower out-of-pocket costs
Patients looking to avoid tablet splitting or skipping doses due to cost

By accessing a lower-cost generic directly, you can stay on track with your diabetes treatment and avoid disruptions due to affordability.

Is Generic Sitagliptin as Effective as Januvia?

Yes. Generic sitagliptin contains the same active ingredient, strength, and effectiveness as Januvia. It undergoes strict quality control by Health Canada, similar to FDA standards in the U.S.

If your doctor prescribes sitagliptin (rather than Januvia), it’s simply a cost-saving substitution without sacrificing efficacy or safety.

Final Thoughts

Januvia is a valuable tool for managing type 2 diabetes—but the price in the U.S. can be unsustainable for many. Generic sitagliptin from Canada offers a proven, more affordable option, especially for Americans paying out of pocket.

With 100 tablets of generic sitagliptin available for just $128.95, ordering a 3-month supply through a licensed Canadian pharmacy can significantly reduce your monthly costs without compromising your treatment.