Sitagliptin in clinical practice: a new approach in the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Background: Sitagliptin is a novel agent for the treatment of type 2 diabetes either as monotherapy or in combination with metformin or a thiazolidinedione. Objective: To review the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin in clinical trials and comment on drug interactions and safety issues arising from its use. Methods: Relevant articles were identified through a PubMed search (up to May 2008). Results/conclusions: Sitagliptin either used alone or in combination with other hypoglycemic agents has a favorable glucose-lowering effect and safety profile. It has been associated with few side effects, mainly involving the gastrointestinal system and with a low incidence of hypoglycemia, while it generally demonstrated a neutral effect on body weight. Sitagliptin is a safe alternative or complementary option for patients with type 2 diabetes who do not reach the recommended glycosylated hemoglobin level with lifestyle interventions and/or current oral antidiabetic agents.