DPP-4 inhibitors
DPP-4 inhibitors | |
---|---|
Drug class | |
Class identifiers | |
Use | Type 2 diabetes |
ATC code | A10 |
Biological target | Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 |
Clinical data | |
Drugs.com | DPP-4 inhibitors |
External links | |
MeSH | D064730 |
DPP-4 inhibitors, also known as gliptins, are a class of oral hypoglycemics that block Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), an enzyme involved in the inactivation of the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones are responsible for increasing insulin synthesis and release from pancreatic beta cells and decreasing glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells. By inhibiting DPP-4, these drugs increase the levels of active incretin hormones, which in turn increases insulin release and decreases glucagon levels in the circulation in a glucose-dependent manner.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
DPP-4 inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme DPP-4, which is responsible for degrading the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones play a crucial role in the regulation of glucose metabolism by enhancing the secretion of insulin and suppressing the release of glucagon during meals. As a result, DPP-4 inhibitors help in reducing blood glucose levels without causing significant hypoglycemia.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
DPP-4 inhibitors are primarily used in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control. They are often prescribed as part of a combination therapy with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin or sulfonylureas.
Examples of DPP-4 Inhibitors[edit | edit source]
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of DPP-4 inhibitors include nasopharyngitis, headache, and upper respiratory tract infections. There is also a concern about the risk of pancreatitis and joint pain associated with this class of drugs.
Advantages[edit | edit source]
DPP-4 inhibitors do not usually cause weight gain, which is a common side effect of many other antidiabetic medications. They also have a low risk of causing hypoglycemia compared to other therapies.
Limitations[edit | edit source]
The efficacy of DPP-4 inhibitors in reducing HbA1c is moderate. They are less effective than some other classes of diabetes medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists. Additionally, the long-term effects on cardiovascular outcomes are still being studied.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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