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Vildagliptin

This page provides concise information about the drug vildagliptin, including its indications, dosage and administration, mechanism of action, related brands with their strengths, warnings, and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

Vildagliptin is an antidiabetic medication initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes mellitus.

Mechanism of Action of Vildagliptin

Vildagliptin works by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4, which breaks down incretin hormones. These hormones increase insulin release and decrease glucagon secretion. By inhibiting DPP-4, vildagliptin prolongs the action of incretin hormones, resulting in improved blood sugar control.

Uses of Vildagliptin

Vildagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels. This occurs when body cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, resulting in elevated blood glucose. In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it effectively. Also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, this condition typically develops in middle age or later, and is often referred to as mature-onset diabetes.

Vildagliptin Drug administaration and Dosage available

Take vildagliptin as prescribed by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medication. Your physician will determine the appropriate dosage and duration based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. Only discontinue use if your doctor advises you to do so.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Vildagliptin

Warnings

This drug should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically advised by your physician. Inform your physician if you are pregnant, suspect you might be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant. It is unknown whether vildagliptin passes into breast milk, so you should not use this drug if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Additionally, this medication is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 due to limited safety and efficacy data for this age group.

Precautions

If you suspect an allergy to the drug or its components, avoid taking it and consult your doctor. This drug is not recommended for individuals with diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar and the presence of ketones in the blood. Inform your doctor if you are taking a sulphonylurea, are on dialysis due to kidney problems, have liver disease, have had heart failure, or have a history of pancreatic disease. Your doctor may need to adjust the dosage when vildagliptin is taken with other medications to prevent low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).

Side Effects

Common side effects of vildagliptin include itchy rash, trembling, headache, dizziness, muscle pain, joint pain, constipation, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and blurred vision. Serious side effects may include angioedema, liver disease (hepatitis), and inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Word Of Advice

Vildagliptin is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Collaborate with your physician and a registered dietitian to create a diabetes management plan that includes lifestyle modifications. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor to help assess the medication’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.