Teneligliptin
Teneligliptin is an oral hypoglycemic agent, specifically a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). By inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, Teneligliptin increases the levels of incretin hormones, enhancing insulin secretion and reducing blood sugar levels, particularly after meals. It is typically prescribed to patients whose diabetes is not adequately controlled by diet, exercise, or other oral anti-diabetic drugs.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Teneligliptin is available in tablet form, and the common dosage strength is:
Brand and Generic Names
Generic Name:
Brand Names:
- Tenelia
- Teneza
- Teneglide
- Tenezia
- Tensave
These brands may vary by country and manufacturer.
Indications for Use
Teneligliptin is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially when diet, exercise, and other medications fail to adequately control blood glucose levels. It is often used in combination with other antidiabetic agents such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or insulin.
Mechanism of Action
Teneligliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which degrades incretin hormones like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones stimulate the release of insulin in response to meals and suppress the release of glucagon, which reduces hepatic glucose production. By increasing the activity of these incretins, Teneligliptin enhances insulin secretion from the pancreas in a glucose-dependent manner and reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver, resulting in better glycemic control.
Administration and Dosage
Teneligliptin is typically administered orally at a dosage of 20 mg once daily, with or without food. In some cases, the dose can be increased to 40 mg daily if necessary. It can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other oral antidiabetic agents, depending on the patient's glycemic control needs.
Dosage adjustments:
- No dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment.
- In patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease, dosage adjustment may be necessary.
Side Effects and Precautions
Common Side Effects:
- Hypoglycemia (especially when used with other antidiabetic medications)
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Serious Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis
- Severe hypersensitivity reactions, such as angioedema and skin rashes
- Liver enzyme abnormalities
Precautions:
- Hypoglycemia: When combined with other hypoglycemic agents, there is an increased risk of low blood sugar. Patients should be educated on recognizing symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to manage it.
- Pancreatitis: There is a potential risk of pancreatitis, so any signs of abdominal pain should be monitored.
- Renal Function: Although no dose adjustment is needed for mild to moderate renal impairment, caution is advised in patients with severe renal impairment.
- Liver Function: Teneligliptin can cause mild elevations in liver enzymes, so liver function should be monitored during treatment.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited data on the use of Teneligliptin during pregnancy and lactation, so it should be used only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Conclusion
Teneligliptin is an effective DPP-4 inhibitor for managing type 2 diabetes, particularly in patients who require additional glucose control. It helps lower blood glucose by increasing incretin levels, thus promoting insulin secretion. With a relatively low risk of hypoglycemia when used alone and minimal side effects, it is a favorable option for patients with type 2 diabetes. However, close monitoring for serious adverse effects like pancreatitis and hypoglycemia (when combined with other agents) is essential. As with any medication, its use should be guided by a healthcare provider, particularly when considering individual patient needs and conditions.
