Description: Omarigliptin is a potent, long-acting oral antidiabetic drug. It belongs to the class of medications known as Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It is unique among DPP-4 inhibitors for its once-weekly dosing schedule, which is made possible by its long half-life.

Indication: Omarigliptin is indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults to help improve glycemic control, often used as an adjunct to diet and exercise.

Mechanism of Action: The mechanism of action for Omarigliptin involves the selective inhibition of the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). This enzyme is responsible for the rapid breakdown of incretin hormones, such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP).

By inhibiting DPP-4, Omarigliptin increases the levels and prolongs the activity of these incretin hormones. This leads to two key effects:

1. Increased Insulin Secretion: The elevated levels of GLP-1 and GIP stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin in a glucose-dependent manner (meaning it only works when blood sugar is high).
2. Decreased Glucagon Release: The hormones also suppress the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood glucose levels by promoting glucose production in the liver.

This dual action helps to regulate blood glucose levels, particularly after meals, without a significant risk of hypoglycemia when used as a monotherapy.