Description
Trajenta 5 mg is an oral glucose-lowering drug used in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It acts by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) thereby increasing levels of incretin hormones, which increase insulin secretion and decrease glucagon levels — helping to control blood sugar. 

Prescription
Yes — Trajenta is prescription-only in virtually all jurisdictions. 

Therapeutic Category
Antidiabetic agent — specifically a DPP-4 inhibitor (gliptin class) used for glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes. 

Active Ingredients / Composition

• Active: Linagliptin 5 mg per tablet. 
• Excipients: For example the UK SmPC lists: mannitol, pregelatinised maize starch, maize starch, copovidone, magnesium stearate, Opadry Pink film-coating (E.g., titanium dioxide, iron oxides).

Variant
Film-coated oral tablet, strength 5 mg (some markets may also have combination formulations with metformin or other agents).

Consume Type
Oral ingestion — swallow the tablet with water. The tablet may be taken with or without food, at the same time each day. 

Directions / Usage

• The usual recommended dose: one 5 mg tablet once daily. 
• It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications and along with diet and exercise. 
• If a dose is missed: if it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up. 
• Duration: Treatment is generally long-term (for as long as recommended by the doctor) to maintain glycaemic control. 

Common Side Effects
Some of the more frequent side-effects include:

• Nasopharyngitis (common cold type symptoms) 
• Cough, upper respiratory tract infection 
• Hypoglycemia (especially when used together with other glucose-lowering agents) 
• Constipation, vomiting, diarrhea
  Serious side-effects (less common):
• Bullous pemphigoid (skin blistering disorder) 
• Pancreatitis, severe allergic reactions 

Package Type
Film-coated tablets in blister packs (for example 10 or 30 tablets per strip/pack) depending on the market. 

Storage Advice

• Store below 30 °C (or as specified on local pack). 
• Keep in original packaging, protect from moisture and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use past the expiry date.

Safety Advice

• Contraindication: Do not use if you have type 1 diabetes mellitus or for treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis. 
• Use caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment or those taking strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors, as dose adjustment may be required or alternative medication considered.
  Patients should regularly monitor blood glucose and have periodic kidney/liver/disease-status check as advised.
• Alcohol consumption may increase risk of hypoglycemia when used with other antidiabetics.
  Driving/machinery: Dizziness may occur, especially if hypoglycemia happens; drive with caution. 
• In pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed; discuss with your doctor. 
• Inform your doctor about any other medications (many interactions possible) especially those that affect blood sugar, liver or kidney function. 

Product Substitutes
Generic linagliptin tablets (5 mg) from other manufacturers. Other antidiabetic medications such as other DPP-4 inhibitors (sitagliptin, saxagliptin), SGLT-2 inhibitors, or GLP-1 agonists may be used depending on the individual’s condition — substitute only under medical advice.

Manufacturer / Marketer
The brand Trajenta is marketed by Boehringer Ingelheim in many countries.