Linagliptin (Tradjenta) for the treatment of diabetes mellitus

摘要

Linagliptin (Tradjenta) is a dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor labeled for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Similar to sitagliptin (Januvia) and saxagliptin (Onglyza), linagliptin delays the breakdown of endogenous incretin hormones such as glucagon-like peptide 1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide. These hormones, when secreted in response to food intake, stimulate postmeal insulin secretion, inhibit glucagon release, improve satiety, and slow gastric emptying.1'2 Linagliptin can be used alone or in combination with metformin (Glucophage), sulfonylureas, pioglitazone (Actos), or insulin.