LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 TABLET 10'S

How LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 TABLET 10'S Works

• LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet combines two powerful medications, Linagliptin and Metformin, to effectively manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Understanding how each component works is key to appreciating the overall mechanism of action.
• **Linagliptin: The DPP-4 Inhibitor** Linagliptin belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors). DPP-4 is an enzyme that breaks down incretin hormones in the body. Incretin hormones, such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, stimulating insulin release from the pancreas when blood glucose levels are high and reducing glucagon secretion (a hormone that raises blood sugar) when blood glucose levels are elevated. By inhibiting DPP-4, Linagliptin increases the levels of active incretin hormones in the body. This leads to: Increased insulin secretion: When blood sugar rises, the elevated incretin levels prompt the pancreas to release more insulin, helping to move glucose from the bloodstream into cells where it can be used for energy. Decreased glucagon secretion: Incretins also suppress glucagon secretion, which helps to prevent the liver from releasing excess glucose into the bloodstream. The net effect is lower blood sugar levels, especially after meals.
• **Metformin: The Biguanide** Metformin is a biguanide, a class of drug that reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity in the body's tissues. Metformin works through several mechanisms: Decreased hepatic glucose production: Metformin primarily acts in the liver to reduce the production of glucose. It inhibits gluconeogenesis (the formation of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and glycogenolysis (the breakdown of glycogen into glucose), reducing the amount of glucose released into the bloodstream. Increased insulin sensitivity: Metformin enhances the sensitivity of body tissues, particularly muscle and fat, to insulin. This means that cells are more responsive to insulin's signal to take up glucose from the blood, further lowering blood sugar levels. Slowed intestinal absorption of glucose: Metformin can also slightly reduce the absorption of glucose from the intestines after a meal, which helps to prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar.
• **Synergistic Action** When Linagliptin and Metformin are combined in LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet, they work synergistically to provide better blood sugar control than either medication alone. Linagliptin increases insulin release and decreases glucagon, while Metformin reduces glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity. This dual action targets multiple pathways involved in blood sugar regulation, offering more comprehensive control. The 'ER' in LINANEXT-M ER stands for 'Extended Release'. This means the Metformin component is released slowly into the body over an extended period. This helps to minimize gastrointestinal side effects often associated with Metformin and provides more consistent blood sugar control throughout the day. LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet is typically taken once or twice daily, as directed by a healthcare professional. It's important to take this medication with food to minimize stomach upset and to follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding dosage and timing.
• **In Summary** LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet is a combination medication that utilizes two distinct mechanisms to effectively manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Linagliptin enhances the effects of incretin hormones, increasing insulin release and decreasing glucagon, while Metformin reduces glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity. This synergistic action, coupled with the extended-release formulation of Metformin, provides comprehensive and sustained blood sugar control.

The common side effects of LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when taken with other diabetes medications. Less common side effects can include skin rash, itching, headache, dizziness, constipation, upper respiratory tract infection, and lactic acidosis (rare but serious). Report any persistent or severe side effects to your doctor immediately. Other rare side effects includes Vitamin B12 deficiency, abnormal liver function tests and swelling in the extremeties.

• If you miss a dose of LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

• Keep LINANEXT M ER 5/1000MG TAB 1X10 away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store LINANEXT M ER 5/1000MG TAB 1X10 at room temperature.

• Take LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water to ensure the modified-release mechanism works properly, releasing the medication gradually.
• LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet is typically taken once or twice daily with meals. Consistency is key! Take it at the same time(s) each day to maintain a steady level of medication in your bloodstream and optimize its effectiveness in controlling blood sugar.
• This medication helps manage blood sugar levels but it’s not a cure. Continue following your doctor's recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are crucial for managing diabetes effectively.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly as directed by your healthcare provider. Keep a record of your readings and share it with your doctor during appointments. This will help them adjust your dosage if needed and ensure optimal diabetes management.
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as sweating, shaking, dizziness, or confusion. Carry a source of fast-acting sugar, like glucose tablets or juice, with you at all times in case of a hypoglycemic episode. Inform your family and friends about how to help you if you experience severe hypoglycemia.

• LINANEXT-M ER 5/1000 Tablet should be taken preferably with or immediately after meals to avoid stomach upset. High fat meals may decrease the absorption of Linagliptin, but this effect is usually not clinically significant. Maintain a consistent diet while taking this medication. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect, especially in patients with kidney problems. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific dietary advice tailored to your health condition.