Please check your internet connection and try again.
# Tradjenta (linagliptin)
## Overview
Linagliptin is an oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which stimulate insulin release and decrease glucagon production in a glucose-dependent manner.
## Primary Indications
Adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
## Adult Dosing
The recommended dose is **5 mg once daily**. Linagliptin can be taken with or without food.
## Pediatric Dosing
The safety and efficacy of linagliptin have not been established in pediatric patients.
## Dose Adjustments
No dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment or hepatic impairment.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to linagliptin or any excipients in the formulation.
* History of serious hypersensitivity reactions to linagliptin, including angioedema and severe skin reactions.
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, cough.
* **Serious:** Pancreatitis, hypersensitivity reactions (including angioedema and urticaria), severe and disabling arthralgia (joint pain).
## Key Drug Interactions
* **CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, St. John's wort):** May decrease linagliptin exposure and efficacy. Concurrent use is not recommended.
## Monitoring
* Monitor glycemic control (e.g., HbA1c).
* Assess for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis (persistent, severe abdominal pain, which may radiate to the back with or without vomiting).
* Assess for signs and symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions.
## Clinical Pearls
* Linagliptin is unique among DPP-4 inhibitors as it is primarily eliminated by the hepatobiliary system and does not require dose adjustments in renal impairment.
* Consider the risk of pancreatitis and hypersensitivity reactions. Patients should be counseled on these potential risks.
* Effectiveness may be reduced if co-administered with strong CYP3A4 inducers.
***
**Disclaimer:** This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Always consult the most current prescribing information and local guidelines before initiating or modifying therapy.
