Drug | Tablet

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (as an adjunct to diet and exercise) to improve glycaemic control in adults when metformin alone is inadequate or when already treated with linagliptin and metformin.

Linagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that increases incretin levels, leading to glucose-dependent insulin release and reduced glucagon secretion. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, reduces intestinal glucose absorption and improves insulin sensitivity, lowering blood glucose without causing significant hypoglycaemia when used alone.

Oral tablet. Take exactly as prescribed, usually twice daily with meals (or as directed) to reduce stomach upset. Swallow whole with water; do not crush/chew if the pack is extended-release; follow label instructions. Monitor blood glucose regularly.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste, headache, nasopharyngitis, cough, dizziness, hypoglycaemia (more likely with insulin/sulfonylureas), vitamin B12 deficiency (long-term)

Risk of lactic acidosis with metformin (rare but serious): higher risk in kidney impairment, dehydration, severe infection, shock, liver disease, heavy alcohol use, or hypoxia/heart failure—seek urgent care for fast breathing, severe weakness, abdominal pain, or drowsiness. Assess renal function before starting and periodically; dose adjustments/avoid in significant renal impairment as per prescribing info. Temporarily stop metformin around iodinated contrast procedures and major surgery as advised. Pancreatitis and severe joint pain have been reported with DPP-4 inhibitors—stop and consult doctor if severe abdominal pain occurs. Use caution in elderly, undernourished, or those with alcohol use; monitor B12 with long-term use.

Iodinated contrast media, alcohol, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide), cimetidine (may increase metformin levels), rifampicin (may reduce linagliptin effect), strong P-gp/CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampicin, St John’s wort), insulin and sulfonylureas (increased hypoglycaemia risk)

Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from moisture and light. Keep in original blister pack and out of reach of children.

Jentadueto 2.5/1000 Tablet, Linagliptin + Metformin 2.5/1000 tablets (various brands), Kombiglyze XR 5/1000 Tablet (saxagliptin+metformin), Galvus Met 50/1000 Tablet (vildagliptin+metformin), Janumet 50/1000 Tablet (sitagliptin+metformin)