Drug Description:
Tradjenta (linagliptin) is an oral prescription drug used to manage blood sugar levels among adults with Type-2 diabetes. This medication is effective if accompanied by proper diet and exercise.
This oral hypoglycemic works by inhibiting DPP-4, which is the enzyme that deteriorates active incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP. If the active incretin hormones increase, it will stimulate the release of insulin in a glucose-dependent manner. It will also decrease levels of glucagon in the body’s circulation.
Directions
Read the prescription label and make sure to take Trajenta precisely as prescribed by your physician. Remember that taking this medication is only an adjunct to proper diet and regular exercise. Complying with all aspects of this program is essential.
Tradjenta 5mg tablet is typically taken once a day – with or without food. It will be ideal to take this hypoglycemic drug at the same time every day to avoid missing your dose. If you miss a dose, you should take it as soon as you can.If your next dose is due in a few hours, do not take the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses of Tradjenta at once.
Remember to store this medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Side Effects
The common Tradjenta side effects you may experience are:
-stuffy or runny nose
-sore throat
-cough
-diarrhea
These common adverse reactions usually go away on their own and do not require medical attention. However, there are some serious and persistent adverse reactions that you should look for, such as severe joint pain, unusual skin blisters, and signs of heart failure, which include shortness of breath, swelling of extremities, and abrupt weight gain.
You must also be alert for persistent vomiting and severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back as it may signify a pancreatic disease.
Contact your physician right away if you experience severe and persistent side effects.
Precautions
Talk to your physician about your medical history, including high cholesterol or triglyceride levels and history of pancreatitis. Also, if you have a known allergy tolinagliptin or any ingredients Tradjenta may have. Signs of an allergic reaction are difficulty breathing, swelling, and skin rash.
Regular checking of blood sugar levels is necessary. Be familiar with symptoms of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia may occur, especially if you are prescribed with other diabetes medications. Signs of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar are cold clammy skin, shaking, dizziness, blurred vision, and fast heartbeat. Take a glucose tablet or any form of food high in sugar to reverse hypoglycemia.
As your blood sugar levels are greatly affected by stress, certain illnesses, and pregnancy – tell your doctor if you suspect any of these. Do not change your dose without your physician’s advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to take Tradjenta?
Tradjenta medication could be taken at any time of the day. However, ideally, it should be taken at the same time of the day, every day.
Which is better – Januvia vs Tradjenta?
Tradjenta and Januvia are both DPP-4 inhibitors. They are both proven effective and safe for Type-2 diabetics.
Can I use Tradjenta if I have diabetes ketoacidosis?
No, this drug is not intended for diabetes ketoacidosis.
Is Tradjenta bad for your kidneys?
Tradjenta’s renal safety profile is consistent with all the clinical trials conducted. Thus, it is safe for your kidneys.
How long doesTradjenta take to work?
Tradjenta would start working within five days. Full effects will take a few weeks.
