Teneligliptin

Teneligliptin is an oral antidiabetic drug belonging to the class of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4 inhibitors), used in the management of type 2 diabetes. DPP-4 inhibitors work by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help to control blood glucose by increasing insulin release and decreasing glucagon levels in the pancreas when blood glucose levels are high. Unlike some other medications for diabetes, teneligliptin does not significantly affect body weight.

Mechanism of Action

Teneligliptin inhibits the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which is responsible for the inactivation of incretin hormones GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). By inhibiting DPP-4, teneligliptin increases the levels of active incretin hormones, which enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the pancreatic beta cells and suppresses glucagon secretion from the pancreatic alpha cells. This results in a decrease in fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetic profile of teneligliptin is characterized by rapid absorption and a half-life that supports once-daily dosing. It is primarily metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine and feces. Teneligliptin has a low potential for drug-drug interactions, making it a suitable option for patients with type 2 diabetes who are on multiple medications.

Clinical Use

Teneligliptin is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control. It can be used alone or in combination with other antidiabetic medications such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin when diet and exercise plus a single antidiabetic agent do not provide adequate glycemic control.

Adverse Effects

The most common adverse effects associated with teneligliptin include nasopharyngitis, headache, and upper respiratory tract infections. Hypoglycemia can occur when teneligliptin is used in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin. Pancreatitis, although rare, has been reported in patients taking DPP-4 inhibitors, including teneligliptin.

Contraindications

Teneligliptin is contraindicated in patients with a history of serious hypersensitivity to teneligliptin or any of the excipients in the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis or diabetic pre-coma.

Drug Interactions

Teneligliptin has a low potential for drug-drug interactions. However, caution should be exercised when it is co-administered with other medications that can affect blood glucose levels. Monitoring of blood glucose is recommended when starting or stopping concomitant medications.

Conclusion

Teneligliptin is a valuable addition to the therapeutic options available for managing type 2 diabetes. Its once-daily dosing, low risk of weight gain, and minimal drug-drug interactions make it a convenient and effective choice for many patients.