DPP4 inhibitors as a potential therapeutic option for sarcopenia: A 6-month follow-up study in diabetic older patients.

OBJECTIVES

Sarcopenia is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study investigates the effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) as an add-on therapy for sarcopenia in older adults with T2DM over a six-month follow-up period.

METHODS

This is a retrospective and six-month follow-up study. The study was performed on 90 participants who are followed in a geriatric clinic hospital. Sarcopenia was diagnosed as per the EGWSOP-2 criteria. The patients were divided into two groups regarding DPP4i use. Each patient was evaluated for sarcopenia and sarcopenia-related parameters at baseline and at the end of 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 72.57 ± 7.089, and 60% of them were female. DPP4i users had worse glycemic control and decreased rate of low muscle strength at the end of 6 months (39.6% vs. 25.0%, P = .039). Forty-two patients without DPP4i therapy had reduced muscle strength (22.71 ± 6.95 kg vs. 20.88 ± 6.32 kg, P = .046) and stable Hba1c levels (6.45 ± 0.56% vs. 6.40 ± 0.52, P = .380) at their six-month follow-up control.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding DPP4i to treatment for T2DM yields a positive effect on muscle strength and glycemic control. These agents may offer higher prospects in managing T2DM while counteracting sarcopenia.

BRIEF SUMMARY

T2DM and Sarcopenia are common in older adults. Considering the increased prevalence of T2DM and the risk of coexistent sarcopenia in older adults, the additional positive effects of DPP4i may be crucial in the choice of treatment for these patients.