Adding a DPP-4 inhibitor to a potent GLP-1 agonist like semaglutide or tirzepatide may provide minimal additional glucose control while raising the risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and pancreatitis-related concerns
The absence of regulatory guidelines around dosage, frequency, and duration further complicates safety evaluations
Decrease glucagon release, helping stabilize blood glucose
Use of DPP-4 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and SGLT-2 inhibitors is on the rise owing, at least in part, to their glycemic benefits, lack of weight gain, and complementary mechanisms of action when used in combination with metformin or other antihyperglycemic medication classes
Previous studies have shown people with a BMI 40, also known as class 3 obesity, and women have an increased risk of thyroid cancer
As these medications get more powerful, the nutritional challenges they create become even more important to address