Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which side effect is commonly associated with gliptins?

1. Gastrointestinal upset

2. Respiratory tract infections

3. Hypoglycemia

4. Weight gain

The correct answer is: Respiratory tract infections

Gliptins, also known as DPP-4 inhibitors, are a class of medications used to manage type 2 diabetes. One of the commonly reported side effects associated with gliptins is respiratory tract infections. This association is thought to arise due to the immunomodulatory effects of the medication. Respiratory infections can occur more frequently in patients taking gliptins, as the drugs may influence the immune system's response. While gastrointestinal upset, hypoglycemia, and weight gain can be side effects associated with other diabetes medications, they are less frequently linked to gliptins specifically. Gastrointestinal upset is more typically seen with other classes of diabetes medications, such as metformin. Hypoglycemia is less common with gliptins when used alone, as they primarily work by enhancing the secretion of insulin only in response to increased blood glucose levels. Weight gain tends to be more associated with insulin therapy or certain other diabetes medications rather than gliptins. Thus, respiratory tract infections stand out as a notable side effect for this class of drugs.