Patient was educated on contraindications dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors as follows:
- These medications for the significant part are excreted unchanged by the kidneys with very small portion being metabolized in the liver. Individuals with liver and renal dysfunction, cannot metabolize and excrete these medications normally. In such patients with compromised liver and renal functions, these medications can stay active in circulation for longer time and can be toxic. So, these medications are contraindicated in such individuals.
- Acute pancreatitis is a rare, but serious side effect of use of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors. Patients present with a severe upper abdominal pain, radiating to the back, along with nausea and vomiting. So, these medications are contraindicated in individuals with history of acute pancreatitis.
