Generic

Linagliptin + Metformin Hydrochloride

Indications

When treatment with both Linagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride is suitable, this is suggested as an addition to diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Pharmacology

Linagliptin is used to improve blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Linagliptin is an inhibitor of DPP4 (dipeptidyl peptidase 4), an enzyme that breaks down the incretin hormone GLP1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) and GIP (insulin-stimulating polypeptide-dependent glucose). Therefore, linagliptin increases the level of active incretin hormone, stimulates pancreatic β (β) cells to release insulin in a glucose-dependent manner, and reduces the secretion of glucagon from pancreatic α (α) cells in the circulation.

Metformin Hydrochloride is an oral biguanide hypoglycemic agent, used to treat type 2 diabetes and lower basic and postprandial blood sugar. Its mechanism of action is different from that of sulfonylureas and does not produce hypoglycemia. Metformin hydrochloride reduces the production of liver glucose, reduces the absorption of intestinal glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity by increasing the absorption and utilization of peripheral glucose.

Dosage & Administration

Linagliptin & Metformin immediate release tablet: The dosage of Linagliptin & Metformin should be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerability. Maximum recommended dose of 2.5 mg Linagliptin and 1000 mg Metformin Hydrochloride twice daily with meals. Dose escalation should be gradual to reduce the gastrointestinal (GI) side effects associated with Metformin Hydrochloride use.

Recommended starting dose: In patients currently not treated with Metformin Hydrochloride, initiate treatment with 2.5 mg Linagliptin and 500 mg Metformin Hydrochloride twice daily.

In patients already treated with Metformin Hydrochloride, start with 2.5 mg Linagliptin and the current dose of Metformin Hydrochloride twice daily.

Patients already treated with Linagliptin and Metformin Hydrochloride, individual components may be switched to this combination containing the same doses of each component.

Linagliptin & Metformin extend release tablet: The dosage of this combination should be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerability, while not exceeding the maximum recommended total daily dose of Linagliptin 5 mg and Metformin Hydrochloride 2000 mg. this combination should be given once daily with a meal.

Recommended starting dose: In patients currently not treated with metformin, initiate this combination treatment with 5 mg Linagliptin/1000 mg Metformin Hydrochloride extended-release once daily with a meal.

In patients already treated with Metformin, start this combination with 5 mg of Linagliptin total daily dose and a similar total daily dose of Metformin once daily with a meal.

In patients already treated with Linagliptin & Metformin immediate release tablet, switch to extend release tablet containing 5 mg of Linagliptin total daily dose and a similar total daily dose of Metformin once daily with a meal.

5 mg Linagliptin & 1000 mg Metformin Hydrochloride extended-release tablet should be taken as a single tablet once daily. Patients using 2.5 mg Linagliptin & 1000 mg Metformin extended release tablets should take two tablets together once daily.

Interaction

Amiloride, digoxin, morphine, ranitidine, trimethoprim, and other cationic medicines may decrease metformin elimination.

P-glycoprotein/CYP3A4 inducer (i.e. rifampin): When used together, the efficacy of this drug may be decreased.

Contraindications

Metformin Hydrochloride is known to be extensively eliminated by the kidney, notwithstanding Linagliptin’s low renal excretion. With the severity of renal impairment, the risk of Metformin Hydrochloride buildup and lactic acidosis rises. As a result, people with renal impairment should avoid this combination. Acute or chronic metabolic acidosis (diabetic ketoacidosis) and hypersensitivity to Linagliptin or Metformin Hydrochloride are additional contraindications.

Side Effects

Nasopharyngitis and diarrhea are the most prevalent adverse effects. Patients using this combination with sulfonylureas are more likely to have hypoglycemia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Because there are no sufficient and well-controlled trials in pregnant women with this combination or its separate components, it should only be taken if obviously needed during pregnancy. When given to a nursing woman, extreme caution should be exercised.

Precautions & Warnings

Metformin should be stopped immediately in patients with lactic acidosis who are taking it, and supportive treatment should be started very once. Acute pancreatitis has been reported after the drug’s release. If pancreatitis is detected, stop taking Linagliptin and Metformin very away. In patients having radiologic tests with intravascular injection of iodinated contrast materials or any surgical procedures requiring restricted food and fluid intake, temporarily stop taking Linagliptin and Metformin. Because metformin can reduce Vitamin B12 levels, hematologic markers should be checked at least once a year.

Therapeutic Class

Combination Oral hypoglycemic preparations

Storage Conditions

Keep in a cool & dry place (below 30°C), protected from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Pharmaceutical Name

ACI Limited