Galvus Met Tablets (Vildagliptin + Metformin)

What is Galvus Met Tablet (Vildagliptin + Metformin)?

Galvus Met is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It is a combination of two active ingredients, Vildagliptin and Metformin.

Vildagliptin is a type of medication known as a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme called DPP-4, which normally breaks down a hormone called incretin. Incretin helps to stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas and reduce the amount of glucose produced by the liver, leading to lower blood sugar levels. Metformin is a type of medication known as a biguanide. It works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's response to insulin. This helps to lower blood sugar levels. Galvus Met is available in tablet form and is usually taken twice a day with meals. The dosage will depend on the individual's medical history and blood sugar levels.  The available strength is 500mg, 850mg, and 1000mg which is to be taken with a prescription.

Side Effects of Galvus Met Tablet (Vildagliptin + Metformin)

Common

Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Stomach pain
Headache
Dizziness
Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and pharynx)
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)

These side effects usually resolve on their own and do not require medical attention. However, if any of these side effects persist or become severe, patients should inform their healthcare provider.

Galvus Met may cause more serious side effects, such as:

Lactic acidosis: a buildup of lactic acid in the blood that can be life-threatening
Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Hypersensitivity reactions, including skin rash and hives

What are the Uses of Galvus Met Tablet (Vildagliptin + Metformin)?

Lowering blood sugar levels: Galvus Met works by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's response to insulin. 

Improving insulin sensitivity: Metformin, one of the active ingredients in Galvus Met, helps to improve the body's sensitivity to insulin. 

Enhancing insulin secretion: Vildagliptin, the other active ingredient in Galvus Met, helps to enhance insulin secretion by blocking the action of an enzyme called DPP-4. 

Weight management: Galvus Met may also help to promote weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes, as both Metformin and Vildagliptin have been shown to have beneficial effects on weight management.

Precautions of Galvus Met Tablet (Vildagliptin + Metformin)

Allergy: Patients who are allergic to Vildagliptin or Metformin should not take Galvus Met.

Kidney function: Galvus Met may cause kidney problems, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Therefore, patients with impaired kidney function should be closely monitored while taking this medication.

Liver function: Galvus Met may cause liver problems, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease. Therefore, patients with impaired liver function should be closely monitored while taking this medication.

Hypoglycemia: Galvus Met may cause low blood sugar levels, especially in patients who are also taking insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar. Patients should be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as sweating, shaking, headache, and confusion, and should inform their healthcare provider if they experience these symptoms.

FAQ  

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Galvus Met?

A: If you miss a dose of Galvus Met, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Galvus Met?

A: Drinking alcohol while taking Galvus Met can increase the risk of lactic acidosis, a serious side effect of this medication. Therefore, it is recommended that patients limit their alcohol consumption while taking Galvus Met.

Q: Can Galvus Met cause weight gain?

A: Weight gain is not a common side effect of Galvus Met. In fact, some studies have shown that Galvus Met may help to promote weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Q: Can I stop taking Galvus Met if my blood sugar levels improve?

A: Patients should not stop taking Galvus Met without first consulting their healthcare provider. Stopping this medication suddenly can cause a sudden increase in blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous.

Q: How should I store Galvus Met?

A: Galvus Met should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. It should be kept in its original container with the lid tightly closed.

Interactions with Galvus Met Tablet (Vildagliptin + Metformin)

Insulin and other blood sugar-lowering medications: Combining Galvus Met with insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar levels can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels).

Diuretics (water pills): Diuretics can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when combined with Galvus Met.

Beta-blockers: Beta-blockers can mask the symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels), making it more difficult to detect and treat.

Certain antibiotics: Some antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim, can increase the risk of lactic acidosis when combined with Galvus Met.

Herbal supplements: Some herbal supplements, such as ginseng and fenugreek, can also lower blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia when combined with Galvus Met.