DPP-4 Inhibitors (Gliptins)
DPP-4 inhibitors, also known as gliptins, are a class of oral diabetes medications that help control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. They work by blocking the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4, which breaks down incretin hormones.
Mechanism of Action
DPP-4 Inhibitors (Gliptins) work by blocking an enzyme in your body called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). This enzyme normally breaks down natural hormones called incretins, such as GLP-1 and GIP, which are released after you eat. By stopping DPP-4 from breaking down these hormones, gliptins allow incretins to stay active longer. These increased incretin levels then help your body release more insulin when blood sugar is high and reduce the amount of sugar made by your liver, leading to lower blood sugar levels.
Clinical Uses
This class of medications is primarily prescribed to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. They are often used when diet and exercise alone are not enough, or when other diabetes medications are not suitable. DPP-4 inhibitors can be used alone or in combination with other diabetes drugs to improve overall blood sugar control, helping to prevent long-term complications of diabetes.
Side Effects & Safety
Most people tolerate DPP-4 inhibitors well, with common side effects including a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, and headache. More serious but rare side effects can include severe joint pain, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and severe allergic reactions. Some medications in this class have also been linked to an increased risk of heart failure in certain patients, so your doctor will consider your heart health.
Conditions Treated
DPP-4 Inhibitors (Gliptins) medications are used to treat the following conditions:
DPP-4 Inhibitors (Gliptins) Medications (6)
Alogliptin
Brand: Alogliptin
Alogliptin (brand name: Alogliptin) is a medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. It belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which work by helping your body produce more insulin when blood sugar is high, thereby lowering glucose. This medication is used in addition to diet and exercise.
$300–$600/month/month
Empagliflozin, linagliptin, metformin hydrochloride
Brand: Trijardy XR
Trijardy XR is a combination medicine used by adults with type 2 diabetes, along with diet and exercise, to help lower blood sugar levels. It combines three different medications that work in various ways to help your body manage sugar. For some adults with type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease, it can also help reduce the risk of heart-related death.
$600–$900/month/month
Linagliptin
Brand: Tradjenta
Linagliptin (Tradjenta) is a medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels, alongside diet and exercise. It works by increasing natural substances in your body that help release insulin and lower sugar production when blood sugar is high.
$450–$600/month/month
Saxagliptin
Brand: Saxagliptin
Saxagliptin is a prescription medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. It works by helping your body produce more insulin after meals, which lowers blood sugar. This medication is used along with a healthy diet and exercise.
$350–$650/month/month
Sitagliptin
Brand: Januvia
Sitagliptin (Januvia) is a medication used to help adults with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels, alongside diet and exercise. It works by increasing the levels of natural hormones in your body that help control blood sugar, especially after meals. This helps improve how your body uses insulin and reduces the amount of sugar your liver makes.
$500–$700/month/month
Sitagliptin hydrochloride oral
Brand: Brynovin
SITAGLIPTIN HYDROCHLORIDE ORAL (brand name: BRYNOVIN) is a DPP-4 Inhibitors. 1 INDICATIONS & USAGE BRYNOVIN is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Limitations of Use BRYNOVIN is not recommended in patients with type 1 diabetes. BRYNOVIN has not been studied in patients with a history of…
$450–$650/month/month
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