Researchers uncovered that joint pain in people with type-2 diabetes is linked with the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The FDA has made an announcement adding additional warnings to DPP-4 inhibitors, stating it can increase joint pain in users with type-2 diabetes.
Although the FDA doesn’t suggest stopping use of DPP-4 inhibitors they do suggest speaking with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or are experiencing joint pain.
Advertisement
Normal use of DPP-4 inhibitors is to help lower blood sugar in type-2 diabetics along with healthy diet and exercise. Untreated type-2 diabetes can lead to complications including nerve and kidney damage, vision problems and heart disease.
The FDA came to their findings by searching the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System Database and medical literature. They uncovered that patients experienced joint pain from day one and even years later after their start date of taking DPP-4 inhibitors. Furthermore, when patients stopped use of DPP-4 inhibitors joint pain was relieved within one month. Additionally, when patients went back on DPP-4 inhibitors the joint pain returned.
The FDA urges healthcare professionals as well as patients to report any side effects caused by DPP-4 inhibitors. Below is a chart from the FDA which reveals FDA-approved DPP-4 inhibitors.
| Brand name | Active ingredient(s) |
|---|---|
| Januvia | sitagliptin |
| Janumet | sitagliptin and metformin |
| Janumet XR | sitagliptin and metformin extended release |
| Onglyza | saxagliptin |
| Kombiglyze XR | saxagliptin and metformin extended release |
| Tradjenta | linagliptin |
| Glyxambi | linagliptin and empagliflozin |
| Jentadueto | linagliptin and metformin |
| Nesina | alogliptin |
| Kazano | alogliptin and metformin |
| Oseni | alogliptin and pioglitazone |
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
