Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)inhibitors are a type of oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).They function by inhibiting ... Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)inhibitors are a type of oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).They function by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which is involved in the degradation of incretin hormones such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide).These drugs raise the concentration of active incretin hormones by inhibiting DPP-4, resulting in increased glucose-dependent insulin secretion, decreased glucagon secretion, and slower stomach emptying. In the end, this combination helps individuals with T2DM regulate their blood sugar levels. The mechanism of action involves preventing GLP-1 and GIP from rapidly degrading, hence extending its effects. GLP-1 increases satiety and slows stomach emptying by stimulating insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and decreasing glucagon secretion (which reduces hepatic glucose synthesis). GIP also aids in the production of insulin in response to nutritional intake. DPP-4 inhibitors that are commonly prescribed include sitagliptin, saxagliptin, linagliptin, alogliptin, and vildagliptin. These drugs are typically given orally, once day, and are generally tolerated with little known side effects. They are usually used as monotherapy or in conjunction with other diabetes medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin. DPP-4 inhibitors have a moderate efficacy in lowering HbA1c levels (a measure of long-term blood sugar control), usually by 0.5% to 1.0%. They have a usually neutral effect on body weight and are regarded weight-neutral as compared to several other diabetes drugs that may promote weight gain. Although DPP-4 inhibitors are generally well tolerated, some possible adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, nasopharyngitis, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea. Furthermore, reports have linked these drugs to rare episodes of pancreatitis or joint discomfort, albeit these events are uncommon. Patients with T2DM frequently have several comorbidities, and DPP-4 inhibitors have demonstrated acceptable cardiovascular safety profiles in clinical trials, potentially lowering the risk of significant adverse cardiovascular events. As with any drug, individuals should speak with their healthcare providers to identify the best treatment strategy, taking into account aspects such as efficacy, tolerability, comorbidities, and unique patient needs.