TRADJENTA/TRAJENTA (Linagliptin)

What is this medication?

Linagliptin, Trajenta/Tradjenta
Antidiabetic Agent; Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 (DPP-4) Inhibitor

Brand Name US: Tradjenta
Canadian Equivalent: Trajenta

Linagliptin/Trajenta/Tradjenta is officially indicated for Diabetes mellitus Type 2.

How does this medication work?

Incretin hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) regulate glucose by increasing the production and release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells while also decreasing glucagon secretion from pancreatic alpha cells.  Decreasing glucagon results in less glucose production by the liver. Incretin hormones are normally released by the intestines and production is stimulated by food.  Incretins are inactivated by DPP-4.  Linagliptin/Trajenta/Tradjenta inhibits DPP-4 thereby raising incretin levels and resulting in lower blood glucose.

How should I take this medication?

Oral: 5mg once daily

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, take consistently at same time each day with or without a meal unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature

You Need to Avoid: Do not use for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Linagliptin/Trajenta/Tradjenta make sure your physician is aware of any allergies, medications you currently take, if you have kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, a history of pancreatitis, are pregnant or breastfeeding

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Hypoglycemia, increased uric acid, increased serum lipase, nasopharyngitis, cough

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones.