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Using GLP-1s

DPP-4

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4, the enzyme that rapidly breaks down the body's own GLP-1 within minutes.

By the glp1.how editorial teamReviewed

DPP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) is an enzyme that rapidly degrades the body's own GLP-1. Native GLP-1 has a half-life of only about one to two minutes, largely because DPP-4 breaks it down so quickly (Victoza prescribing information (external link), section 12).

GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are engineered to resist this enzyme, which is what lets them stay active in the body far longer than natural GLP-1 does.

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Revision history

Updated 1 time since Jul 18, 2026 · show changes
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Related terms

  • Half-life · The time it takes for half of a drug dose to be cleared from the body — determines how often a medication needs to be taken.
  • GLP-1 · A gut hormone (glucagon-like peptide-1) that stimulates insulin release, slows digestion, and reduces appetite; the target of drugs like semaglutide and liraglutide.
  • Receptor agonist · A drug that binds to and activates a specific receptor, mimicking the effect of the body's natural hormone.

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