Gliptins, another name for a class of oral drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, are used to treat type 2 ... Gliptins, another name for a class of oral drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. They function by raising the concentrations of incretin hormones, which include GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Better glucose regulation results from these hormones' stimulation of insulin release and inhibition of glucagon secretion. Method of Action DPP-4 inhibitors work by preventing the DPP-4 enzyme from doing its job. Incretin hormones are broken down by this enzyme. These drugs extend the effects of GLP-1 and GIP by blocking DPP-4. GLP-1 delays stomach emptying, decreases food intake, increases glucose-dependent insulin production from pancreatic beta cells, and inhibits glucagon release from pancreatic alpha cells. In reaction to meals, GIP also increases insulin secretion. Lower blood sugar levels result from enhanced glucose-dependent insulin secretion and decreased glucagon secretion. DPP-4 Inhibitor Examples Nicotine (Sitagliptin): Sitagliptin, one of the first DPP-4 inhibitors to receive FDA approval, is often used once daily. Since its approval in 2006, it has been extensively utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Sitagliptin is frequently used either by itself or in conjunction with other diabetic drugs due to its good safety profile. Another DPP-4 inhibitor that is taken orally once daily is linagliptin (Tradjenta). It is advantageous for patients with renal impairment because the majority of its excretion occurs through the bile. Linagliptin and metformin can be found in combination tablets, offering a two-pronged approach to glycemic management. Saxagliptin, also known as Onglyza, is a once-daily DPP-4 inhibitor that is well-known for its ability to reduce HbA1c levels. It can be taken either on its own or in conjunction with other diabetes drugs. For patients who are worried about gaining weight, saxagliptin may be helpful as it has been demonstrated to have no effect on body weight. Another drug in the DPP-4 inhibitor class that is administered orally once day is alogliptin (Nesina). It is generally well tolerated and has been demonstrated to lower HbA1c levels. One can use alogliptin by itself or in conjunction with other antidiabetic medications. Considerations and Adverse Effects DPP-4 inhibitors are generally well tolerated, but they can have unfavorable side effects as well, like headaches, upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat), and gastrointestinal problems like nausea and diarrhea. On rare occasions, they may also result in allergic responses or pancreatitis. It's critical that people and their healthcare practitioner talk about these possible adverse effects. In summary All things considered, DPP-4 inhibitors are useful supplements to the range of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. These drugs provide a means of enhancing glycemic control with a minimal risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain by going after the incretin system. The selection of a DPP-4 inhibitor and its combination with other antidiabetic medications should be based on the unique patient's variables and preferences, as is the case with any drug.