Endocrine

DPP-4 Inhibitors

Endocrine & Metabolic

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Examples

sitagliptinlinagliptinsaxagliptin

Prefix / Suffix: -gliptin

Physiology

Incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP) stimulate insulin and suppress glucagon after meals but are rapidly broken down by DPP-4 enzyme.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibit DPP-4 enzyme, prolonging incretin activity, which increases insulin and decreases glucagon in a glucose-dependent manner.

Indications

  • Type 2 diabetes (add-on or monotherapy)

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

  • Generally well-tolerated
  • Headache, nasopharyngitis
  • Pancreatitis (rare but serious)
  • Joint pain
  • Heart failure risk (saxagliptin)

Contraindications

  • History of pancreatitis (caution)
  • Type 1 diabetes

Nursing Considerations

  • Take once daily, with or without food
  • Teach signs of pancreatitis: severe abdominal pain radiating to back, nausea, vomiting
  • Low hypoglycemia risk as monotherapy
  • Dose adjust in renal impairment (except linagliptin)
  • Weight neutral — does not cause weight gain or loss

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.