Why is this medication prescribed?

Tradjenta is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It contains the active ingredient linagliptin, which belongs to a class of drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors.

People with type 2 diabetes often have difficulty regulating their blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. DPP-4 inhibitors like Tradjenta work by increasing the levels of incretin hormones in the body. These hormones stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas and decrease the production of glucose by the liver, leading to lower blood sugar levels.

Tradjenta is typically prescribed alongside diet and exercise to help improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is not used to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Always consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how Tradjenta should be used:

• Dosage: The typical dosage of Tradjenta is 5 mg taken orally once daily, with or without food.
• Administration: Tradjenta tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. They should not be crushed, split, or chewed.
• Timing: It’s generally recommended to take Tradjenta at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your bloodstream.
• Compliance: It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and administration of Tradjenta. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your blood sugar levels to ensure that Tradjenta is effectively managing your diabetes. Adjustments to your dosage may be made based on these results.
• Other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking, as they may interact with Tradjenta.
• Lifestyle: Along with taking Tradjenta, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper weight management, to effectively manage type 2 diabetes.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or making any changes to your diabetes treatment regimen, including the use of Tradjenta. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

Other uses for this medicine

Tradjenta (linagliptin) is primarily indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, there are no other approved medical uses for Tradjenta beyond its intended purpose of managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It’s important to use Tradjenta only as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow while taking Tradjenta include:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to linagliptin or any other medications.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of taking Tradjenta with your healthcare provider. The safety of Tradjenta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established, so it’s important to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of controlling blood sugar levels.
• Kidney function: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any kidney problems, as adjustments to the dosage of Tradjenta may be necessary.
• Pancreatitis: There have been reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) associated with the use of DPP-4 inhibitors like Tradjenta. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis or if you experience severe abdominal pain, which may be a symptom of pancreatitis.
• Hypoglycemia: Tradjenta is not known to cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) on its own, but when used in combination with other diabetes medications, it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Be cautious if you are taking Tradjenta along with insulin or sulfonylureas, as these medications can lower blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, trembling, confusion, and dizziness.
• Interactions with other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as they may interact with Tradjenta. This includes other diabetes medications, as well as medications that affect kidney function.
• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of your kidney function and blood sugar levels while taking Tradjenta to ensure that it is working effectively and to detect any potential adverse effects.

As always, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to report any side effects or concerns while taking Tradjenta.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Tradjenta:

• There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Tradjenta. However, it’s important to follow a healthy and balanced diet as recommended by your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to help manage your diabetes effectively.
• Be mindful of your carbohydrate intake and aim to consume complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limiting sugary foods and beverages can help control blood sugar levels.
• Pay attention to portion sizes and meal timing to help manage blood sugar levels throughout the day.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Tradjenta:

• If you miss a dose of Tradjenta, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose.
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you have missed multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
• It’s important to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of Tradjenta in managing your blood sugar levels. If you have difficulty remembering to take your medication, consider setting reminders or incorporating it into your daily routine.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tradjenta (linagliptin) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Tradjenta may include:

• Upper respiratory tract infection (such as a cold or flu)
• Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat)
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when used in combination with other diabetes medications that can lower blood sugar levels
• Joint pain (arthralgia)
• Skin rash

Less common but more serious side effects may include:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience these symptoms.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Tradjenta, which can manifest as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction.
• Kidney problems: In rare cases, Tradjenta may cause kidney problems or worsen pre-existing kidney disease. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience changes in urination, swelling of the ankles or feet, or signs of kidney impairment.
• Bullous pemphigoid: This is a rare but serious skin condition characterized by large, fluid-filled blisters. Inform your healthcare provider if you develop skin blisters or sores while taking Tradjenta.

It’s essential to report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine whether any adjustments to your treatment regimen are necessary. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Tradjenta:

Storage:

• Store Tradjenta tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging or container, tightly closed.
• Keep Tradjenta out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Tradjenta tablets according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
• Consult with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste disposal facility for proper disposal instructions.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Tradjenta:

• In case of an overdose of Tradjenta, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or other adverse reactions. Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Tradjenta, including dentists and pharmacists.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your diabetes and response to treatment.
• Keep a record of your blood sugar levels and any symptoms or side effects you experience while taking Tradjenta.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening medical conditions while taking Tradjenta, or if you plan to start any new medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Remember to always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of Tradjenta and diabetes management. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for further guidance.