DPP-4 Inhibitors Are Associated with Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer

Although we can't say with certainty that the association is causal, clinicians should be aware of these findings about dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors.

Some studies have suggested that dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibitors are associated with excess risks for pancreatitis (NEJM JW Gen Med May 1 2017 and Diabetes Care 2017; 40:164 and 284) and pancreatic cancer. In this population-based cohort study, Korean researchers compared risks for these disorders in 10,000 new users of DPP-4 inhibitors and 23,000 new users of other diabetes drugs (excluding glucagon-like peptide-1 [GLP-1] agonists) between 2007 and 2013.

The overall incidence rates were roughly 10 cases per 1000 patient-years for pancreatitis and 2 cases per 1000 patient-years for pancreatic cancer. In analyses adjusted for numerous potentially confounding variables, DPP-4 use was associated with significantly higher risks for pancr…

Reviewing Author

Allan S. Brett, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

Allan S. Brett, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

DPP-4 Inhibitors Are Associated with Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer

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Reviewing Author