A class of drugs known as dipeptidyl peptididase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors is mostly used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. They function by preventing the operation of the DPP-4 enzyme, which raises the body's levels of incretin hormones. By increasing the release of insulin and reducing the secretion of glucagon following meals, incretin hormones aid in blood sugar regulation. Gliptins, another name for DPP-4 inhibitors, are now an essential tool in the toolbox for treating type 2 diabetes. When other oral drugs, such as metformin or sulfonylureas, are insufficient to regulate blood sugar levels, they are frequently recommended. These medications are appealing choices for many patients since they are typically well-tolerated and have a minimal risk of hypoglycemia. The capacity of DPP-4 inhibitors to increase the activity of incretin hormones, specifically glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), is one of their primary mechanisms. When food is consumed, the intestine releases GLP-1 and GIP. They assist the body release insulin only when blood sugar levels are elevated because they stimulate pancreatic beta cells to secrete insulin in a glucose-dependent way. When compared to certain other diabetes drugs, this lowers the risk of hypoglycemia. These drugs stop the rapid breakdown of GLP-1 and GIP by blocking DPP-4. As a result, they act longer, releasing more insulin and secreting less glucagon. Overall, better glucose management is achieved, especially after meals when blood sugar tends to surge.DPP-4 inhibitors such as sitagliptin, saxagliptin, linagliptin, and alogliptin are frequently prescribed. Typically, these medications are taken once daily, sometimes with or without food, depending on the particular prescription. To get the best blood sugar management, they can be used either by alone or in addition to other diabetic drugs. The good side effect profile of DPP-4 inhibitors is one of their advantages. With mild and temporary side effects being the most common, they are generally well-tolerated. Upper respiratory tract infections, headaches, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat), and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea are a few examples. Although uncommon, severe side effects such pancreatitis or allergic responses are possible. Patients using DPP-4 inhibitors should be informed about possible medication interactions. DPP-4 inhibitors and certain drugs, like certain antibiotics and antifungals, may interact and change how effective the inhibitors are. To prevent any risks, patients should always disclose to their healthcare practitioner all prescriptions, including over-the-counter medications and vitamins. DPP-4 inhibitors are a useful complement to the available type 2 diabetes therapy choices, to sum up. They aid with glucose regulation with a minimal risk of hypoglycemia and relatively mild side effects by focusing on the incretin system. Patients and their healthcare team should collaborate carefully to decide the best course of action for each patient's unique needs, just as with any drug.
