SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF VILDAGLIPTIN: DIPEPTIDYL PEPTIDASE-4 INHIBITOR

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common chronic disorders, with increasing prevalence worldwide. Vildagliptin is a drug from a new class of medications called dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP4) inhibitors. Several studies have found that certain diabetes drugs may carry increased cardiovascular (CV) risks compared to others. The new approach in management of T2DM based upon the effects of incretin hormones; Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulin tropic peptide (GIP). Clinical trials have shown that vildagliptin is effective in significantly lowering glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose, and prandial glucose levels. P-cell function may also be improved. The pharmacology, efficacy and safety of vildagliptin, a novel DPP-4 inhibitor, are also discussed.