Authors: Odessa G. Tolentino-Wilson, M.D., FPCP Augusto D. Litonjua, M.D., FPCP, FPSEM, FACE Section of Endocrinology and Metabolism Makati Medical Center INTRODUCTION: Vildagliptin is a member of the dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor (DPP-IV inhibitor) class of drugs. These drugs are believed to improve glucose variability by restoring the physiologic pattern of insulin secretion. Vildagliptin improves glycemia by improving beta and alpha cells’ sensitivity to glucose.1 This addresses the impaired glucose-mediated suppression of glucagon secretion in diabetes that results in increased hepatic glucose output and subsequently hyperglycemia.2 In a study that compared the effect of vildagliptin and glimepiride on prandial glucagon » » » [Read more]