Linagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor with a unique pharmacological profile, and efficacy in a broad range of patients with type 2 diabetes

INTRODUCTION: Increasing population age, obesity and physical inactivity mean that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasingly common. Current treatments may be limited by adverse events, drug-drug interactions or contraindication/need for dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment. AREAS COVERED: This paper reviews studies that evaluate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and clinical efficacy and safety of linagliptin , a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, recently approved in the US, Japan and Europe for the treatment of T2DM. EXPERT OPINION: Oral linagliptin, 5 mg once daily, is an effective, well-tolerated DPP-4 inhibitor, suitable for use in a wide range of patients with T2DM. It is weight-neutral, without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia, and can be administered either alone or in combination with other diabetes treatments. It has a unique pharmacological profile within its class and, unlike other DPP-4 inhibitors, linagliptin does not require dose adjustment in patients with renal impairment.