What it means
A DPP-4 inhibitor for type 2 diabetestipe too dy-uh-BEE-teezA form of diabetes in which the body does not respond well to insulin and does not make enough of it to keep blood glucose normal.Full entry . It keeps the gut hormones called incretins active longer, so the pancreas releases more insulin and less glucagon when blood glucose rises after eating. On its own it rarely causes low blood glucose. It is taken once daily, often combined with metformin (Janumet).
For the nurse
Teach the client to report severe stomach pain that may spread to the back (pancreatitis) and joint pain. The dose is lowered in kidney disease.
At a glance
| Drug class | dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Januvia, Zituvio; with metformin: Janumet |
| Also written | Januvia, Zituvio |
Related terms
insulin
A hormone made by the pancreas that lets the body's cells take in glucose, also made as a medicine.
hypoglycemia
A blood glucose level below normal, under 70 mg/dL.
type 2 diabetes
A form of diabetes in which the body does not respond well to insulin and does not make enough of it to keep blood glucose normal.
pancreas
A long, flat gland behind the stomach that makes digestive enzymes and the hormones insulin and glucagon.