Uses of Empagliflozin+Linagliptin

The combination of Empagliflozin and Linagliptin is used to treat type II diabetes mellitus among adult patients when diet, exercise and treatment with other conventional medicines does not result in adequate sugar control. It is used as an adjunct therapy along with proper diet and exercise to achieve better results. It can also be used to reduce heart complications among patients having both diabetes and heart problems. 

Therapeutic Category

Empagliflozin: Antidiabetic agents (Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors)

Linagliptin: Antidiabetic agents (Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor)

How Empagliflozin+Linagliptin works

Empagliflozin eliminates the excess sugars from the body via urine. Whereas linagliptin makes the pancreas to secrete more insulin (a hormone that digests glucose in the body). Collectively, these actions controls blood sugar levels and improve glycemic control in patients with type II diabetes. 

Common side effects of Empagliflozin+Linagliptin

• vaginal infection (such as vaginal thrush)
• sore throat or nose, cough
• passing more urine than normal
• increased urge to pass urine
• skin rash or itching
• thirst
• constipation

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• If you experience signs of severe decrease in blood sugar levels (such as increased sweating, feeling shaky, anxiety, blurred vision, increased hunger, headache, mood changes or confusion)
• If you experience serious allergic reaction (such as hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience severe skin rashes with redness and blistering of the skin
• If you experience inflammation of the pancreas (causing severe persistent stomach pain which radiates towards your back along with nausea and vomiting)
• If you experience signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (such as nausea, vomiting, sudden weight loss, stomach pain, excessive thirst, fast and deep breathing, confusion, unusual sleepiness or tiredness, a sweet smell to your breath, metallic taste, smelly urine or sweat)
• If you experience infection of kidneys or urinary tract with fever (such as burning sensation while passing urine, mid-back pain or pelvic pain, cloudy urine, urge to pee)
• If you experience signs of fournier’s gangrene (such as pain, tenderness, redness or swelling of the genitals or the area between the genitals and/or anus combined with fever or general weakness)
• If you experience signs of dehydration (such as excessive thirst, dizziness upon standing, fainting)

Health Tips for Empagliflozin+Linagliptin

• Maintain a balanced diet that includes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and healthy fats. To assist maintain blood sugar levels, keep track of your carbohydrate intake. Try taking foods with a low glycemic index, as they have a slower impact on blood sugar levels
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Hydration is important for kidney function and general health
• Exercise on a regular basis can assist increase insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. Aim for a combination of aerobic and strength training, as prescribed by your doctor
• Monitor your blood sugar levels on a regular basis, as directed by your doctor. Keeping track of your levels will help you understand how your body reacts to the medicine and can help you make dietary decisions
• Evaluate your feet on a regular basis for any signs of blisters, sores, or cuts. Diabetes patients must take special care of their feet
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can affect blood sugar levels and interact with your medications
• Meditation and deep breathing exercises are all effective stress-reduction approaches. Stress management has been shown to improve blood sugar levels
• Take Empagliflozin + Linagliptin exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow the specified dosage and regimen. Do not change the dosage or discontinue the medicine without first consulting your doctor