Incretin Mimetics

Incretin mimetics are a class of pharmacological agents that simulate the actions of endogenous incretin hormones, such as GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones are naturally released by the intestines in response to food and are responsible for the 'incretin effect,' where oral glucose triggers a much larger insulin response than intravenous glucose. Mimetics are designed to be resistant to the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which normally breaks down natural incretins within minutes.

By providing a sustained incretin signal, these medications help correct the blunted incretin response often seen in individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes. This class of drugs has revolutionized metabolic medicine by offering a way to address the root hormonal imbalances that drive overeating and insulin resistance, rather than simply treating the symptoms of high blood sugar.