Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors have recently emerged as a new class 
of antidiabetic that show favorable results in improving glycemic control with a 
minimal risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain. Teneligliptin, a novel DPP-4 
inhibitor, exhibits a unique structure characterized by five consecutive rings, 
which produce a potent and long-lasting effect. Teneligliptin is currently used 
in cases showing insufficient improvement in glycemic control even after diet 
control and exercise or a combination of diet control, exercise, and 
sulfonylurea- or thiazolidine-class drugs. In adults, teneligliptin is orally 
administered at a dosage of 20 mg once daily, which can be increased up to 40 mg 
per day. Because the metabolites of this drug are eliminated via renal and 
hepatic excretion, no dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal 
impairment. The safety profile of teneligliptin is similar to those of other 
available DPP-4 inhibitors. However, caution needs to be exercised when 
administering teneligliptin to patients who are prone to QT prolongation. One 
study has reported that the postprandial blood glucose-lowering effects of 
teneligliptin administered prior to breakfast were sustained throughout the day, 
and the effects observed after dinner were similar to those observed after 
breakfast or lunch. Thus, although clinical data for this new drug are limited, 
this drug shows promise in stabilizing glycemic fluctuations throughout the day 
and consequently suppressing the progression of diabetic complications. However, 
continued evaluation in long-term studies and clinical trials is required to 
evaluate the efficacy and safety of the drug as well as to identify additional 
indications for its clinical use.