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Indications

REMS


Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: HF

Derm: bullous pemphigoid, localized exfoliation, urticaria

Endo: hypoglycemia

GI: lipase, PANCREATITIS

Metab: hypertriglyceridemia

MS: arthralgia, RHABDOMYOLYSIS

Resp: bronchial hyperreactivity

Misc: HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS (INCLUDING ANAPHYLAXIS, ANGIOEDEMA, AND EXFOLIATIVE SKIN CONDITIONS)

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Availability

(Generic available)

Route/Dosage

US Brand Names

Tradjenta

Action

  • Inhibits the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which slows the inactivation of incretin hormones, resulting in increased levels of active incretin hormones. These hormones are released by the intestine throughout the day and are involved in regulation of glucose. Increased/prolonged incretin levels increase insulin release and decrease glucagon levels.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Improved control of blood glucose and A1c.

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antidiabetics

Pharmacologic Classification: dipeptidyl peptidase-4 dpp-4 inhibitors, enzyme inhibitors

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 30% absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Extensively distributed to tissues.

Metabolism/Excretion: Minimally metabolized; primarily excreted in feces (80%) and urine (5%) as unchanged drug.

Half-Life: >100 hr (due to saturable binding to DPP-4).

Canadian Brand Names

Trajenta

Time/Action Profile

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POunknown1.5 hr24 hr

Blood level.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Explain the purpose and side effects of linagliptin. Instruct patient to take as directed. Take missed doses as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for next dose; do not double doses. Advise patient to read the Medication Guide before starting and with each Rx refill in case of changes.
  • Explain to patient that linagliptin helps control hyperglycemia but does not cure diabetes. Therapy is usually long term. Emphasize the importance of routine follow-up exams.
  • Instruct patient not to share this medication with others, even if they have the same symptoms; it may harm them.
  • Encourage patient to follow prescribed diet, medication, and exercise regimen to prevent hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic episodes.
  • Review signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia with patient. If hypoglycemia occurs, advise patient to take a glass of orange juice or 2–3 teaspoons of sugar, honey, or corn syrup dissolved in water, and notify health care provider.
  • Instruct patient in proper testing of blood glucose and urine ketones. These tests should be monitored closely during periods of stress or illness and health care provider notified if significant changes occur.
  • Warn patient to report symptoms and seek treatment for HF (trouble breathing, leg swelling, lung congestion, rapid weight gain).
  • Advise patient to notify health care provider promptly if signs and symptoms of pancreatitis or if rash; hives; blisters; or swelling of face, lips, or throat occur.
  • Advise patient to report severe and persistent joint pain; onset can occur 1 day to years after initiation and may require discontinuation of therapy.
  • Advise patient to notify health care provider of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult with health care provider before taking other medications, especially other oral hypoglycemic medications.
  • Rep: Insulin is the recommended method of controlling blood sugar during pregnancy. Advise women of reproductive potential to notify health care provider if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.

Pronunciation

lin-a-GLIP-tin

Code

NDC Code