Living with diabetes can be a bit difficult at times, isn't it? Having to take several pills a day is also a bit of a hassle. So if your doctor has prescribed you a combination of these three medications, that means your job has become a lot easier. Let's talk briefly about this medication, what it does, and what you need to be careful of.
What is this medicine? How does it work on the body?
Simply put, this is a medicine that treats Type 2 Diabetes. This pill contains a combination of three medications: Empagliflozin, Linagliptin, and Metformin.
The main thing about this medicine is to control your blood sugar (glucose) levels. Also, this medicine helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke that can occur in a person with diabetes. But remember, this medicine alone is not enough. To get the right results, you must definitely control your diet and exercise along with this medicine.
In Sri Lanka, this medicine can come under brand names such as ``Trijardy XR''.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
It is very important for your doctor to know your complete medical history. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell them before starting this medication.
| The situation that concerns you | Reasons to inform the doctor |
|---|---|
| If you have Type 1 Diabetes | This medicine is not suitable for type 1 diabetes. |
| Kidney or liver disease | Because medications are eliminated from the body through these organs, it is essential to be aware of their function. |
| Heart disease, heart attack, or heart failure | This is important in determining the effect and dosage of the medicine. |
| If you have previously had Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) | We must be careful about the risk of this situation recurring. |
| If you drink alcohol regularly | Combining alcohol and this medication can cause dangerous side effects. |
| If you are scheduled to have surgery or a CT/X-ray scan | The medication may need to be temporarily stopped before and after such situations. |
| If you have frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or genital yeast infections | This medication may slightly increase the risk of such infections. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, it is very important to talk to your doctor about the effects of the medication. |
| Other health problems (e.g. pancreatitis, vitamin B12 deficiency, foot ulcers, circulatory problems) | The suitability of the medication should be determined based on your overall health condition. |
How should I use this medicine?
This is very simple.
- Swallow the pill with a glass of water .
- Take it at the same time every day, in the morning with food.
- Most importantly: Do not break, crush, or chew this pill. Swallow the pill whole.
- Continue taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
Important note: This medicine is for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you. It can be dangerous.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements. Some medications can interact with this medicine and cause side effects.
| Don't take medicine with these! | |
|---|---|
| Some contrast agents (dyes) given before CT, MRI, or X-ray scans | Because these can affect the kidneys, your doctor may tell you to temporarily stop taking the medication. |
| Be especially careful if you take these medications. |
|---|
|
Some medications, especially beta-blockers, can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) (e.g., increased heart rate). Therefore, it is important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
See the doctor regularly.
Your doctor will check on you regularly to see how well your diabetes is being controlled. They will also order a blood test called HbA1C (A1C) . This can show your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
Be aware of low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia)
This is very important. Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar ( dizziness , sweating, shaking, confusion). Always keep some sugar, such as a candy bar or glucose tablets, nearby. If you become unconscious due to low blood sugar, you may not be able to put anything in your mouth, so make sure to tell your family and friends about this. If this happens, seek medical help immediately.
Take care of your body's hydration.
It is essential to stay hydrated while taking this medication. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. If you experience symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, as this can cause dehydration, tell your doctor immediately.
Don't be afraid of the pill cover.
After the medicine in this pill is absorbed into the body, the outer coating may not dissolve and may be passed out in the stool. This is normal. Don't worry about it.
Vitamin B12
Long-term use of metformin can cause vitamin B12 levels to drop slightly, so your doctor will monitor that as well.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some are common.
| If you have these symptoms, see a doctor immediately! | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) | Dry mouth, excessive thirst, difficulty breathing, fruity breath odor, stomach ache, vomiting. |
| Pancreatitis | Severe pain in the upper abdomen radiating to the back, pain that worsens after eating, fever, vomiting. |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Urinary tract infection, frequent urination, bloody urine, back or pelvic pain. |
| Genital tract infections | Redness, swelling, itching, pain, odor. |
| Heart failure | Difficulty breathing, swelling of the ankles and feet, sudden weight gain, extreme fatigue. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Diarrhea | Cough, sore throat |
| Headache | Cold-like symptoms (flushing) |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine is only for Type 2 Diabetes. It should also be used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
- Take the pill at the same time every morning, with food. Do not break, crush, or chew the pill.
- Be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar. Always keep some sugar nearby.
- Maintain good hydration levels, especially if you have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you take, your other illnesses, and any surgery you are about to have.
- If you experience severe stomach pain, difficulty breathing, or a severe allergic reaction, seek medical advice immediately.
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