Denagliptin
DPP-4 InhibitordiscontinuedAlso known as: GW823093, Redona
A DPP-4 inhibitor that prevents the enzymatic breakdown of incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion for type 2 diabetes management.
Overview
Denagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor that was developed by GlaxoSmithKline for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. While it reached Phase 3 clinical trials, its development was discontinued in favor of other compounds. DPP-4 inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme that rapidly degrades the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP, effectively extending their half-life and enhancing their glucose-lowering effects. Unlike direct GLP-1 agonists, DPP-4 inhibitors produce more modest effects on blood sugar and weight but have an excellent tolerability profile with very low risk of hypoglycemia. The class includes approved drugs like sitagliptin and vildagliptin.
Mechanism of Action
Denagliptin selectively inhibits the DPP-4 enzyme: (1) Prevents degradation of endogenous GLP-1 and GIP, extending their half-life from ~2 minutes to ~15-20 minutes; (2) Enhanced GLP-1 levels increase glucose-dependent insulin secretion; (3) Suppresses glucagon release from alpha cells in a glucose-dependent manner; (4) Does not directly affect gastric emptying or central appetite at physiological incretin levels; (5) Provides a more modest but well-tolerated approach to glycemic control.
Molecular Formula
C21H27F2N3O3
Molecular Weight
407.45 g/mol
Sequence
Non-peptide small molecule
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
100mg – 200mg
Frequency
Once or twice daily
Route
oral
Cycle Length
Ongoing
Dosing based on Phase 2/3 clinical trial protocols. Development was discontinued so no approved dose exists.
Source: GSK clinical trial data
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
Oral tablets
Last Updated
2026-02
DPP-4 inhibitor. Available in some markets. Less common than sitagliptin/linagliptin. Generic pricing where available.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Headache | mild |
| Nasopharyngitis | mild |
| Nausea | mild |
| Hypoglycemia | mild |
Pros & Cons
DPP-4 inhibitor class is well-tolerated with minimal GI side effects compared to GLP-1 agonists
Very low risk of hypoglycemia due to glucose-dependent mechanism of action
Oral administration with no fasting requirements
Development discontinued — not available as a medication
Modest glucose-lowering efficacy compared to GLP-1 receptor agonists
Minimal weight loss benefit compared to injectable GLP-1 agonists
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
Development discontinued by GlaxoSmithKline. Not approved by any regulatory agency. The DPP-4 inhibitor class includes approved drugs (sitagliptin, saxagliptin, etc.).
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