Tradjenta contains linagliptin, an oral DPP-4 inhibitor for adults with type 2 diabetes. Its renal-dose instructions differ from several other members of the class, but that does not remove the need for clinical review.
The approved uses and formulations described here follow US prescribing information. They may differ in other countries.
| Medicine detail | Details |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient(s) | linagliptin |
| Medicine class | DPP-4 inhibitor |
| Forms and strengths | Oral tablet: 5 mg |
Treatment role
Linagliptin inhibits DPP-4 and affects incretin activity involved in glucose-dependent insulin and glucagon regulation. The US label describes use with diet and exercise in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is not an insulin product or a treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis.
Source: [1]
Dose and kidney function
Tradjenta is supplied as a 5 mg tablet taken once daily. Its prescribing information does not require a dose adjustment for kidney impairment. Kidney disease and the rest of the treatment plan still need clinical review, and other DPP-4 inhibitors may have different dose-adjustment rules.
Source: [1]
Pancreatitis and other warnings
The label addresses pancreatitis, serious hypersensitivity, severe joint pain and bullous pemphigoid, and calls for consideration of heart-failure risk factors. Hypoglycemia becomes more relevant with insulin or insulin-releasing medicines. Persistent severe abdominal pain or significant blistering should prompt assessment.
Source: [1]
Interactions can affect effectiveness
Strong P-glycoprotein/CYP3A4 inducers, such as rifampin, can reduce the amount of linagliptin in the body. The prescribing information recommends another treatment in this situation. Ask the pharmacist to review any new medicines for interactions.
Source: [1]
Linagliptin in combination tablets
Glyxambi contains linagliptin with empagliflozin. Before adding or replacing Tradjenta, ask the pharmacist to check all the ingredients in existing medicines so that linagliptin is not taken twice unintentionally.
Source: [1]
Questions and answers
Does Tradjenta need a lower dose for kidney impairment?
Its prescribing information does not require a kidney-based dose reduction, but kidney disease and the full treatment plan still need clinical review.
Is 5 mg Tradjenta equivalent to 5 mg Onglyza?
No. They are different ingredients with different dosing and interaction rules.
Can Glyxambi duplicate Tradjenta’s ingredient?
Yes. Glyxambi includes linagliptin.
Related reading
Sources
Sources checked 1 October 2026. This information does not replace advice from your healthcare professional. For complete warnings and instructions, read the product information and consult the prescribing team.
Reviewed by: Mattias Hagman, PhD
About the reviewer:
Dr Mattias Hagman (PhD, University of Sydney) has an academic background and experience working with healthcare-related content and regulated industries. He has lecturing experience at international universities, including Stockholm University and the University of Malta.
Last reviewed: October 2026