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DPP-4 inhibitors

DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors are a class of drugs used primarily to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. DPP-4 is an enzyme that breaks down incretin hormones such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon release after meals. By inhibiting DPP-4, these drugs prolong the action of incretin hormones, thereby enhancing their glucose-lowering effects. DPP-4 inhibitors are typically taken orally and are considered an important addition to the treatment regimen for patients with type 2 diabetes who have not achieved adequate glycemic control with other therapies. Common examples of DPP-4 inhibitors include sitagliptin, saxagliptin, linagliptin, and alogliptin. These drugs are generally well-tolerated, with side effects typically mild and include headaches, nasopharyngitis, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
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