What is Alogliptin?
Alogliptin is an oral antidiabetic agent that belongs to the class of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4, which breaks down incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP in the gastrointestinal tract. By preserving or enhancing the levels of these hormones, Alogliptin increases insulin secretion in response to meals and decreases glucagon levels in a glucose-dependent manner, thereby lowering blood glucose concentrations.
What is Alogliptin used for?
Alogliptin, sold under the brand name Nesina among others, is an oral medication used in the management of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the class of medications known as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors.
As a DPP-4 inhibitor, alogliptin works by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4, which is involved in glucose metabolism. This action leads to an increase in the levels of incretin hormones, such as GLP-1 and GIP, which are naturally occurring peptides that stimulate insulin release from the pancreatic beta cells. By enhancing this natural process, alogliptin facilitates improved insulin secretion in response to meals, leading to enhanced glucose control. The medication is indicated for use in combination with diet and exercise or other therapies (such as metformin or a sulfonylurea) for patients with type 2 diabetes who are not adequately controlled by these measures alone. It has been shown to help lower fasting plasma glucose levels without significantly increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Alogliptin side effects
- Hypoglycemia
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Stomach Pain
- Muscle Pain
- Joint Pain
- Increased Risk of Pancreatitis
- Increased Risk of Heart Failure
- Allergic Reactions (rare)
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