DPP-4 Inhibitors
- DPP-4 Inhibitors are used int the treatment of type 2 diabetes
- MOA: inhibits (DPP-4) enzymes (inhibits breakdown of incretin hormones)
- DPP-4 is in the GI tract, respiratory system & nasal passages
- Incretin hormones stimulate a decrease in blood glucose levels
- DPP-4 breaks down uncertain hormones
- Inhibiting DPP-4 will promote insulin secretion and depresses glucagon secretion
- Small reduction in A1C (0.5-1%) when used as monotherapy
- Can take medication anytime of the day without regard to meals
- Given orally, once a day
- No hypoglycemia occurs when used as monotherapy
- Not for use with insulin
Drug Names
linagliptin-Tradjenta
Alogliptin-Nesina
Saxagliptin-Onglyza
Sitagliptin-Januvia
Side effects
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hypersensitivity
- Headache
- Nasopharyngitis
- Liver failure
- Long-term safety is unknown
Key Notes
- GP-1 Receptor Agonists & DPP-4 Inhibitors have been linked to acute pancreatitis
- Decrease dosage of sulfonylureas and insulin when adding a DPP-4 inhibitor
- DPP-IV inhibitors are effective adjuncts to metformin or the thiazolidinediones
References
Edmunds, M. W., & Mayhew, M. S. (2014). Pharmacology for the primary care provider (4th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.
Harvey, R. A., Clark, M. A., Finkel, R., Rey, J. A., & Whalen, K. (2012). Pharmacology (5th ed.). Baltimore, MD: Lippincott.