Evogliptin is a prescription medication for managing type 2 diabetes. It is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that helps adults improve blood sugar control.
How Evogliptin Works
Evogliptin primarily functions by inhibiting the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4, often referred to as DPP-4. This enzyme is responsible for breaking down certain hormones in the body called incretins, specifically glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). By blocking DPP-4, evogliptin allows these incretin hormones to remain active for a longer duration.
Increased levels of GLP-1 and GIP lead to several beneficial effects for blood glucose regulation. These hormones stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are elevated. Additionally, they help suppress the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar by signaling the liver to release stored glucose. Evogliptin’s action is glucose-dependent, meaning it primarily enhances insulin release and suppresses glucagon only when blood sugar is high. This helps to reduce the risk of low blood sugar events.
Using Evogliptin for Type 2 Diabetes
Evogliptin helps achieve better blood sugar control, alongside dietary adjustments and regular physical activity. It can be prescribed as a standalone therapy for individuals who cannot tolerate other common diabetes medications.
It is also used in combination with other antidiabetic drugs, such as metformin or sulfonylureas. Patients who may benefit include those needing additional blood sugar control without a significant risk of weight gain.
Taking Evogliptin
Evogliptin is an oral medication taken once daily. The standard adult dosage is 5 milligrams (mg) per day. It can be taken with or without food.
Consistency in taking the medication at the same time each day is important for maintaining its effectiveness. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In such cases, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not discontinue evogliptin or alter their dosage without first consulting their healthcare provider.
Understanding Side Effects
Evogliptin can cause some mild and temporary side effects. Common side effects include headaches, symptoms resembling a common cold, and mild gastrointestinal upset. These effects often resolve as the body adjusts to the medication.
More serious, though rare, adverse events have been associated with DPP-4 inhibitors, including evogliptin. These can include inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which may manifest as severe abdominal pain. Severe allergic reactions, presenting as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, are also possible but uncommon. Additionally, some patients have reported joint pain or a rare skin condition called bullous pemphigoid, characterized by large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. Patients experiencing any concerning or severe symptoms should promptly contact their healthcare provider.
Evogliptin in Diabetes Care
Evogliptin is a valuable option for individuals needing additional support in lowering blood glucose levels. It is often considered for patients who have not achieved glycemic targets with initial therapies or for whom other treatments have limitations.
Its suitability for long-term use makes it a practical choice for many. Treatment decisions are always individualized. A healthcare professional evaluates a patient’s overall health, existing conditions, and other medications to determine if evogliptin is the most appropriate part of their diabetes care plan.