linagliptin at a glance
Medicine class
DPP-4 inhibitor, also called a gliptin
Main use
Improving blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes
Administration
Swallow the film-coated tablet whole; it may be taken with or without food
Low blood sugar
Unusual when used alone, but risk increases with insulin or a sulphonylurea
What is linagliptin used for?
The selected product is licensed for adults with type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
Used alone when metformin is unsuitable because of intolerance or renal impairment.
Used with other glucose-lowering treatments, including insulin, when existing treatment does not provide adequate control.
It is not licensed for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
How does linagliptin work?
Linagliptin blocks DPP-4, an enzyme that breaks down the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP. This prolongs their action, increasing insulin release when glucose is raised and reducing glucagon release, which lowers glucose production by the liver.
linagliptin preparations and strengths
Tablet
Route: Oral
Strengths: 5 mg
How to take linagliptin
Follow the dispensing label and prescriber's instructions.
Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
It can be taken with or without food.
Do not stop it without discussing this with the prescribing team.
linagliptin side effects
Common or expected effects
- Cold-like symptoms, such as a blocked nose
- Cough
- Constipation
- Low blood sugar when combined with insulin or a sulphonylurea
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe, persistent abdominal pain, sometimes spreading to the back: possible pancreatitis
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty or collapse: possible severe allergy
- Blistering or peeling skin: possible severe skin reaction, including bullous pemphigoid
linagliptin in pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are limited, so the product information advises avoiding linagliptin as a precaution. Anyone who is pregnant, planning pregnancy or becomes pregnant should have their diabetes treatment reviewed promptly by their prescriber rather than stopping it independently.
linagliptin while breastfeeding
It is unknown whether linagliptin enters human milk, and risk to a breastfed child cannot be excluded. It is usually avoided during breastfeeding; a prescriber should weigh the benefits of treatment and breastfeeding and discuss alternatives where appropriate.
linagliptin interactions
Linagliptin has relatively low interaction potential, but some combinations require attention.
Insulin and sulphonylureas, such as gliclazide
The combination increases the risk of hypoglycaemia, so glucose control and symptoms require closer review.
Rifampicin
It can reduce linagliptin exposure and may weaken its glucose-lowering effect, particularly with prolonged use.
Carbamazepine, phenytoin and phenobarbital
These strong enzyme and transporter inducers may reduce linagliptin effectiveness; direct combination studies are limited.
Common questions about linagliptin
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is linagliptin used for?
It helps improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes, either alone when metformin is unsuitable or alongside other diabetes treatments.
Is linagliptin a type of insulin?
No. It is a DPP-4 inhibitor that helps the body release insulin in response to raised blood glucose.
Can linagliptin be taken with food?
Yes. The tablet can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.