First DPP-4 inhibitor launched
Januvia is indicated for the improvement of glycaemic control for
patients with type 2 diabetes |
Sitagliptin, the first in a new class of oral anti-hyperglycaemic agents, has been launched by Merck, Sharp & Dohme.
Marketed as Januvia, sitagliptin is the first dipeptidyl peptidase 4
(DPP-4) inhibitor to be made available. It increases levels of incretin
hormones, which leads to increased levels of insulin, and reduced levels
of glucagon, being released.
Sitagliptin is indicated for the improvement of glycaemic control for
patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in combination with metformin,
when diet, exercise and metformin do not provide adequate glycaemic control
or, in combination with a thiazolidinedione, when diet, exercise and
a thiazolidinedione do not provide adequate glycaemic control. The summary
of product characteristics advises that Januvia should not be used to
treat patients with type 1 diabetes or patients with moderate to severe
renal insufficiency or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Shailen Rao, an independent consultant pharmacist with experience of
diabetes care, told The Journal: “Sitagliptin is a useful addition
to the range of existing treatments for glucose control in type 2 diabetes.
It will provide an alternative to glitazones and especially for patients
where hypoglycaemia with sulphonylureas is a problem.”
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