• Carlos Campos and Jeff Unger.
• Department of Family Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, USA.
• Postgrad Med. 2021 Nov 1; 133 (8): 843-853.

AbstractGlucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4is) exert their effects via the incretin system, which augments glucose-dependent insulin secretion in response to nutrient intake (the 'incretin effect'). Both classes are well-established pharmacologic options for the management of glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) after failure of first-line metformin; however, they have inherent differences in their mechanisms of action that are reflected in their clinical safety and efficacy profiles. GLP-1RAs have high glycemic efficacy and are associated with weight loss and, in some cases, cardioprotective effects, with a side-effect profile of predominantly transient gastrointestinal adverse events. Most GLP-1RAs are administered as subcutaneous injection, although an oral formulation of one GLP-1RA, semaglutide, has recently become available. DPP4is provide moderate glycemic control, are weight-neutral, and do not offer any cardiovascular benefits, but are generally well tolerated. DPP4is are all administered orally. This narrative review aims to provide guidance for a primary care audience on the similarities and differences between GLP-1RA and DPP4i therapies, with a focus on their mechanism of action, clinical safety, efficacy, and real-world effectiveness. The role of incretin-based therapies in the T2D treatment paradigm, including key considerations for guiding treatment decisions, will also be discussed.

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