Exploration of the DPP-4 inhibitors with a focus on saxagliptin.
BACKGROUND
Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has become a worldwide epidemic. Despite a vast array of new compounds to treat T2DM, recommended treatment goals are consistently not achieved in this country thus suggesting a need to increase treatment options.


OBJECTIVE
To review the role of DPP-4 inhibitors in treatment of T2DM with an emphasis on saxagliptin.


METHODS
The authors discuss the role of this new class of medications in treatment of T2DM, review the current available studies and the unique characteristics of saxagliptin.


CONCLUSIONS
Saxagliptin, a DPP-4 inhibitor, is one of an important new class of compounds, which seems to be particularly safe and effective especially in early treatment of T2DM.
Shubrook
Jay H
JH
Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Family Medicine, Grosvenor Hall 349, Athens, OH 45701, USA. shubrook@ohio.edu
Colucci
Randall A
RA
Schwartz
Frank L
FL
D000218:Adamantane / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004151:Dipeptides / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D054873:Dipeptidyl-Peptidase IV Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans
D004151:Dipeptides; D054873:Dipeptidyl-Peptidase IV Inhibitors; C502994:saxagliptin; D000218:Adamantane