What is Jentadueto Used For?
Jentadueto is available in the form of a tablet and prescribed to a person with type II diabetes whose blood sugar isn’t effectively regulated by the maximum tolerated Metformin dose alone or if a person is taking Linagliptin and Metformin as separate tablets. This medication is a combination of:
- Linagliptin – it’s an oral antidiabetic which belongs to a family of drugs known as DPP-4(dipeptidyl 4) inhibitor. It lowers the blood glucose levels by inhibiting the breakdown of two incretin hormones known as glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide and glucagon –like peptide-1. During food consumption, the hormones are produced as a response. The hormones make the beta cells release insulin due to the rising levels of blood glucose. Glucagon production is also reduced. The break-down of the hormone is stopped; hence Linagliptin increases the effects of these hormones in regulating the blood glucose.
- Metformin – it’s a biguanide. The liver is an important organ which stores glucose and releases it between meal and at night. But due to the effects of Metformin, it releases reduced amount of glucose. Also, the drug makes body’s cells sensitive to the action of insulin hormone. So, the cells make use of insulin more effectively. Naturally, without the effects of the drug, once the carbs are broken down into their simplest form, they are absorbed quickly along the upper as well as the lower parts of the small intestines. Villi (small finger like projections) absorb the carbs, and then they are transported to the bloodstream and transferred to the muscles as well as the liver; Metformin interferes with part of this process. It delays the absorption of sugar from the intestines and into your bloodstream; hence there is minimal food spike in blood glucose levels.
Jentadueto can be used alone or together with other drugs like sulfonylureas. The drug is available under many brand names. The medication comes in the following strengths:
- 2.5 mg /500 mg
- 2.5 mg/850 mg
- 2.5mg/1000 mg
How to Take
Take the medication exactly as directed by the medical care provider. The recommended starting dose of Jentadueto is individualized; it depends on the doses of the medication you are taking. As earlier mentioned, before the doctor prescribes this medication, you must be taking Metformin alone or with Linagliptin, but as separate tablets. The dose prescribed is taken twice daily (in the morning and evening), but with meals to reduce Jentuadueto side effects.
If the doctor has prescribed a different dose from your friend who has type II diabetes and on the medication, take the dose as prescribed; don’t take the drug in larger or smaller quantity or for a longer time than directed. If unclear on the dosage prescribed, contact the health practitioner just to be sure.
Low blood sugar can happen to anyone with diabetes, look out for symptoms like a headache, hunger, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness.
Also, be vigilant for signs of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), for example, increased thirst and urination, hunger, dry mouth, dry skin, weight loss and blurred vision
Monitor blood glucose levels carefully in times of stress, illness or surgery as these may affect blood sugar levels. Contact the physician in such circumstances, since Jentadueto dose needs to be changed.
Inform the medical care provider about all the drugs you are taking; If possible, always have a list of all the prescription medicine, supplements, vitamins, herbs and over the counter drugs as you visit the hospital. If it is important to continue taking some drugs which may interact with Jentadueto, the health professional may alter the dose or take the necessary precautions.
Quit alcohol consumption during Jentadueto treatment and don’t skip meals as these may trigger low blood sugar.
The existence of medical conditions may interfere with the use of the drug. Make sure you inform the physician if you have medical problems like:
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Acute or unstable congestive heart failure
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Dehydration
- A recent history of heart attack
- Sepsis (it’s a serious infection)
- Weakened physical condition
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Low blood pressure
- Infection of any type
- High cholesterol in the blood
- Gallstones
- Kidney disease
- A history of pancreas problem
Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
