What is Linagliptin?
It is an oral diabetes medication that is used to control high amounts of blood sugar in type 2 diabetic patients. Linagliptin, which is the generic name for Tradjenta, works by increasing hormones in the pancreas to produce more insulin. This helps to reduce high levels of blood sugar. This drug should be taken regularly. To remember your daily dose, you can take linagliptin at the same time every day.
What is Januvia?
It is a diabetes drug that regulates insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that works in the body by managing blood glucose levels. Januvia, which is also known as sitagliptin, can be used alone or in combination with other oral diabetes drugs. However, this medication should not be used to treat type 1 diabetic people. Januvia does not usually result in low blood sugar in diabetic patients, but it may cause hypoglycemia if it is taken with sulfonylureas. This medication is usually prescribed together with exercise and diet. Take this drug exactly as it is prescribed by your health-care provider.
Similarities and differences between Januvia vs. Linagliptin
Similarities
Linagliptin and Januvia belong to a class of diabetes drugs known as dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Drugs in this class work by inhibiting the action of an enzyme called DPP-4 that destroys the substances needed to lower blood sugar. Incretin regulates blood glucose levels by producing more insulin when it is needed by the body, and reducing the amount of glucose that is secreted by liver when the body does not need it. Another similarity is that both medications are available in a pill form. You can take linagliptin or Januvia with meals or without. When it comes to side effects, both drugs usually cause hypoglycemia and weight gain. Both medicines are prescription drugs used to treat patients who have type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes refers to a condition where the body does not effectively use insulin.
Differences
There is a difference between linagliptin and Januvia in terms of strength dose. Linagliptin is available in 1 dose strength of 5mg, while Januvia comes in 3 dose options of 25mg, 50mg and 100mg. Your doctor will determine the dosage that you should take. Januvia is the brand name of sitagliptin, while Tradjenta is the brand name of linagliptin.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Research shows that linagliptin and sitagliptin are equally effective. The choice between these two medications depends on their availability and cost. While both work the same, linagliptin is a better option for patients with kidney problems since it can be used safely by those with kidney issues. Therefore, it should be made available in the Iranian market alongside sitagliptin, allowing doctors to choose the best option for patients with different health conditions.
