Galvus (Vildagliptin) is a prescription medication used with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It can be used as a monotherapy when metformin is not suitable. Galvus is also used in combination with other medicines like metformin, sulfonylurea, or thiazolidinedione when these medicines do not adequately control blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body does not produce enough insulin or when the body produces excess glucagon. The active ingredient in Galvus is Vildagliptin. Vildagliptin belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors (dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors). It works by blocking the breakdown of incretin hormones in the body. These hormones are released after meals and stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin when blood glucose levels are high.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Galvus from the United Kingdom manufactured by Novartis in the strength of 50mg tablets. The generic Vildagliptin is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Galvus. The most common side effects of Galvus may include the following:
• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Flatulence;
• Nausea;
• Weakness
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Sudden onset of rash or hives;
• Symptoms of a severe skin reaction like sore throat, fever, swelling in face or tongue, spreading red or purple skin rash
These are not all of the side effects of Galvus. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Galvus if you are allergic to Vildagliptin or any ingredient in Galvus. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have diabetic ketoacidosis;
• Have heart failure;
• Have kidney or liver problems;
• Have lactose intolerance;
• Have type 1 diabetes
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Galvus and ACE inhibitors, digoxin, warfarin, metformin, glyburide, valsartan, simvastatin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if Galvus will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown if Galvus is excreted in breast milk and if it will harm a nursing baby. Take Galvus precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablets whole with water. Take the medicine at about the same time each day. Continue taking your drug for as long as your doctor tells you to. Your doctor will monitor your blood glucose levels and may increase or decrease the dose of Galvus to control your diabetes. If your blood sugar level becomes too low, you may feel dizzy, light-headed, or weak. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Galvus affects you. Keep this medicine in its original container out of sight and reach of children. Store at room temperature, away from moisture.