Description
💊 What is This Combination Medication?
This is a combination of three antidiabetic drugs used to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults:
- Dapagliflozin (10 mg) – an SGLT2 inhibitor
- Linagliptin (5 mg) – a DPP-4 inhibitor
- Metformin (500 mg) – a biguanide
Together, they work to lower blood sugar levels through different mechanisms, helping improve glycemic control when diet and exercise alone are not enough.
✅ How to Use
- Dosage: Usually one tablet daily, taken with food, preferably in the morning.
- Swallow whole with water — do not crush or chew.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions closely and never adjust the dose on your own.
- Monitor blood sugar regularly as advised.
- Continue lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight management) alongside medication.
⚙️ How It Works
| Component | Mechanism | Benefit |
| Dapagliflozin | Removes excess sugar via urine | Reduces blood glucose and weight |
| Linagliptin | Increases insulin, decreases glucagon | Stabilizes post-meal sugar spikes |
| Metformin | Reduces liver glucose production | Improves insulin sensitivity |
⚠️ Common Side Effects
| System | Side Effect |
| Gastrointestinal | Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort (due to Metformin) |
| Urinary | Increased urination, risk of urinary tract infections (from Dapagliflozin) |
| Skin | Rash or itching (less common, from Linagliptin) |
| Others | Headache, tiredness, dehydration (especially with Dapagliflozin) |
🚨 Serious but Rare Side Effects
- Lactic Acidosis (rare but serious from Metformin): symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, slow heartbeat.
- Pancreatitis (from Linagliptin): watch for severe abdominal pain.
- Ketoacidosis (rare from Dapagliflozin): nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing.
- Severe dehydration: due to excess urination.
❗Precautions & Warnings
- Not for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Use with caution in kidney or liver problems.
- Avoid excessive alcohol (increases risk of lactic acidosis).
- Discuss if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning surgery.
- Can increase risk of genital infections — maintain hygiene.
🧪 Monitoring
Your doctor may monitor:
- HbA1c levels
- Renal function (creatinine, eGFR)
- Blood sugar (fasting and postprandial)
- Electrolytes and hydration status
📌 Final Notes
- Take consistently, even if you feel well.
- Do not skip doses or stop abruptly without medical advice.
- This medication can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes complications like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems when used correctly.
- For more detailed information, consult with your healthcare provider or refer to trusted medical resources.
