Drug | Tablet

Type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults to improve blood glucose control when diet and exercise alone are not enough; used when dual therapy with metformin and a DPP-4 inhibitor is appropriate.

Vildagliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that increases incretin hormones (GLP-1, GIP), leading to glucose-dependent increase in insulin release and reduced glucagon. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, lowering fasting and post-meal glucose.

Tablet for oral use. Take as prescribed, usually with meals to reduce stomach upset. Swallow whole with water; do not crush/chew. Take at the same time daily and continue diet/exercise plan.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, metallic taste, headache, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, hypoglycemia (more likely with other antidiabetics), flatulence

Prescription only (Schedule H). Risk of lactic acidosis with metformin (higher in kidney impairment, dehydration, sepsis, hypoxia, heavy alcohol use); stop and seek urgent care if rapid breathing, severe weakness, abdominal pain, or unusual sleepiness occur. Avoid/use with caution in renal impairment; check eGFR before start and periodically. Use caution in hepatic impairment. Risk of pancreatitis with vildagliptin—stop if severe persistent abdominal pain. Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions and rare bullous pemphigoid. Temporarily stop metformin before iodinated contrast/surgery as advised. Monitor vitamin B12 with long-term use.

Alcohol (increases lactic acidosis risk), iodinated contrast media, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., topiramate, acetazolamide), cationic drugs affecting renal tubular secretion (e.g., cimetidine), diuretics and ACE inhibitors/ARBs (may affect renal function), corticosteroids and thiazides (may raise glucose), insulin/sulfonylureas (increased hypoglycemia risk)

Store below 25°C in a dry place, protected from moisture and light. Keep in original blister pack and out of reach of children.

Galvus Met 50/500 Tablet, Jalra M 50/500 Tablet, Zomelis Met 50/500 Tablet, Vysov-M 50/500 Tablet, Vildamet 50/500 Tablet