Compare Tradjenta vs. Glucophage

Tradjenta (linagliptin) and metformin (formerly glucophage) are both prescription oral medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but they work in different ways and belong to different drug classes. Tradjenta is a DPP-4 inhibitor that helps your body produce more insulin and make less sugar by blocking a protein called DPP-4. It's taken once daily and can be taken with or without food. Metformin, on the other hand, lowers the amount of sugar your body makes and absorbs, and helps you use your body's natural insulin better. It's usually taken once or twice daily with food to prevent stomach upset. Metformin is known for causing stomach issues like diarrhea and nausea, but it doesn't cause weight gain and rarely leads to low blood sugar. Tradjenta is less likely to cause stomach side effects but can cause joint pain and has a risk of pancreatitis. A healthcare professional may recommend you take Tradjenta along with other diabetes medications, such as metformin to help control your blood sugar. Lipagliptin and metformin can be taken separately or as a combination medication (Jentadueto) for added convenience. Metformin is also available in a generic form, making it more affordable, while Tradjenta does not have a generic version.