As the patent expiration of 'Trajenta-duo (linagliptin and metformin),' a DPP-4 inhibitor combination therapy for the treatment of diabetes, approaches, approvals of sustained-release formulations are increasing.

According to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), as of March 26th, 55 tablets containing the active ingredients linagliptin and metformin from 27 companies received approvals last year, starting with Daewon Pharmaceutical’s 'Tralitincombi Tab'

Out of 55 items approved, 53 items received approvals this year, including 43 items approved in March.

Boehringer Ingelheim Korea’s Trajenta-duo, the original drug, received approval on November 15, 2012.