DPP-4 inhibitors work by blocking the action of DPP-4, an enzyme which destroys the hormone incretin.
Incretins help the body produce more insulin only when it is needed and reduce the amount of glucose being produced by the liver when it is not needed. These hormones are released throughout the day and levels are increased at meal times.
Medications in the DPP-4 inhibitor family
| Generic or proper name | Brand or trade name |
|---|---|
| Sitagliptin | Januvia |
| Sitagliptin + Metformin | Janumet |
| Vildagliptin | Galvus |
| Vildagliptin + Metformin | Eucreas |
Saxagliptin | Onglyza |
Alogliptin | Vipidia |
Alogliptin + Metformin | Vipdomet |
Linagliptin | Trajenta |
Linagliptin + Metformin | Jentadueto |
Saxagliptin + Metformin | Kombolyze |
Side effects
All medication has side effects and you should check the patient information leaflet (PIL) supplied with your medication to see which side effects you might experience from your particular medication. Remember that you are unlikely to experience all side effects that are listed, and you may not experience any at all. If you do, speak to your doctor as there may be another diabetes medication you could try instead.
