Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibition and vildagliptin therapy for type 2 diabetes

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibition prevents the rapid degradation of the incretins, glucagon-like peptide 1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide. Incretins have beneficial effects on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes through their effects on both alpha- and beta-cells in the pancreas and possibly through additional non-pancreatic effects. Vildagliptin is a potent and selective oral DPP-4 inhibitor that has been studied both as monotherapy and in combination with other antidiabetic treatments. This agent has been shown to be well tolerated and is efficacious in reducing glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose and postprandial glucose levels in trials lasting up to 52 weeks. Vildagliptin is weight neutral, does not cause oedema and is associated with a very low incidence of hypoglycaemia. Recently reported clinical data have helped to further clarify the mechanisms of action and effects of vildagliptin. These results suggest that vildagliptin, as a member of the novel class of DPP-4 inhibitors, has the potential to significantly change the clinical management of diabetes. Future research will further define its use in various patient populations and its possible disease-modifying effects.