Vildagliptin
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Vildagliptin
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Click HereSummary
Vildagliptin is used to manage type 2 diabetes. It helps control high blood sugar levels, especially in people whose blood sugar is not well-controlled by diet, exercise, or other medications.
Vildagliptin works by blocking an enzyme called DPP4. This allows certain hormones to work longer, increasing insulin release after meals and decreasing glucose production. This helps control blood sugar levels.
The usual adult dose of Vildagliptin is 50 mg taken orally once or twice daily. It can be taken with or without food. Children are not typically prescribed this medication.
Common side effects of Vildagliptin include headaches, dizziness, and mild stomach upset like nausea or diarrhea. Rare but serious side effects include liver damage and allergic reactions.
People with severe liver or kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, or a history of pancreatitis should avoid Vildagliptin. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It can interact with some drugs including insulin or other diabetes medications and could increase the risk of low blood sugar.
Indications and Purpose
What is Vildagliptin used for?
Vildagliptin is used to control high blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is especially useful for people whose blood sugar levels are not adequately managed by diet, exercise, or other medications.
How does Vildagliptin work?
Vildagliptin blocks the enzyme DPP-4, allowing incretin hormones to work longer. This increases insulin release after meals and decreases glucose production, helping to control blood sugar levels.
Is Vildagliptin effective?
Yes, vildagliptin is effective in controlling blood sugar levels when combined with a proper diet and exercise. It is backed by clinical studies showing its effectiveness in lowering HbA1c levels.
How does one know if Vildagliptin is working?
Blood sugar levels and HbA1c (a long-term indicator of blood sugar control) should improve with vildagliptin. Regular monitoring of blood sugar and follow-up appointments with your doctor help assess its effectiveness.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Vildagliptin?
The usual adult dose of vildagliptin is 50 mg once or twice daily, depending on the doctor’s recommendation. Children are not typically prescribed this medication as its safety in pediatric patients has not been established.
How do I take Vildagliptin?
Take vildagliptin exactly as prescribed, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Avoid high-sugar foods and follow any dietary advice given by your doctor.
For how long do I take Vildagliptin?
Vildagliptin is usually taken long-term to manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. Continue taking it as directed unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
How long does it take for Vildagliptin to start working?
Vildagliptin begins lowering blood sugar within a few hours of the first dose. However, the full effects on blood sugar control may take a few days to weeks to become noticeable.
How should I store Vildagliptin?
Store vildagliptin at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original packaging and out of reach of children.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Vildagliptin?
People with severe liver or kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, or a history of pancreatitis should avoid vildagliptin. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can I take Vildagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Vildagliptin can interact with some drugs, including insulin or other diabetes medications, increasing the risk of low blood sugar. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Can I take Vildagliptin with vitamins or supplements?
There are no major known interactions between vildagliptin and vitamins or supplements, but it is best to consult your doctor before combining them, particularly with supplements that affect blood sugar.
Can Vildagliptin be taken safely while pregnant?
Vildagliptin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It's important to avoid taking Vildagliptin during pregnancy because there hasn't been enough research on its effects on humans. Animal studies suggest that high doses of Vildagliptin may harm the unborn baby, but the exact risk to humans is unknown.
Can Vildagliptin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Vildagliptin, a diabetes medication, is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. It's unknown if it passes into breast milk, but studies in animals suggest it does. Therefore, it's best to avoid using vildagliptin while breastfeeding.
Is Vildagliptin safe for the elderly?
Vildagliptin is generally safe for elderly patients, but dose adjustments may be needed for those with kidney issues. Regular monitoring is recommended to avoid potential complications.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Vildagliptin?
Yes, regular exercise is safe and beneficial while taking vildagliptin. Be aware of low blood sugar symptoms during physical activity and carry a quick sugar source as a precaution.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Vildagliptin?
Alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with vildagliptin. It’s best to avoid or limit alcohol while taking this medication and discuss safe consumption levels with your doctor.
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