Galvus contains 50 mg of the active substance "vildagliptin", which inhibits dipeptidyl-peptidase 4 "DPP-4", the enzyme that breaks down incretins, hormones released by the body after meal and stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin, and the drug aims to increase their levels helping in insulin secretion.
Galvus is prescribed an adjunctive treatment along with exercise and diet to improve blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, and may be used:
monotherapy in patients who are not suited by metformin.
in combination with other drugs used in the treatment of diabetes, including insulin.
Usual dosage: 100 mg (2 tablets) per day, 50 mg per morning, 50 mg per evening.
It is not recommended to take more than 100 mg of galvus.
The dose may vary if the drug is used with other diabetes medications, depending on the type of drug used, in order to avoid hypoglycemia.
Galvus can be taken with or without meals.
Galvus may cause some side effects, such as:
Upper respiratory tract infection.
Nasopharyngitis.
dizziness.
headache.
tremors.
Blurred vision.
Constipation.
Nausea.
gastroesophageal reflux.
Diarrhea.
Abdominal pain.
Vomiting.
Hyperhidrosis.
Skin rash.
Itch.
Joint or muscle pain.
Peripheral edema.
Galvus is not used in case of hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients, nor is it used for those younger than 18.
Galvus is not a substitute for insulin, especially in patients whose diabetes treatment depends on insulin.
Galvus is not used for type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
The drug is used with caution in case of kidney failure.
Galvs is not used in case of liver failure, and liver enzymes must be tested before and during the use of the drug.
The drug may increase the risk of acute pancreatitis, and care should be taken before using it for those who have previously developed pancreatitis.
There is insufficient data on the effect of the active substance during pregnancy, so it is not recommended to take galvus during pregnancy.
It is not recommended to take Galvus during the breastfeeding period, it is not known whether or not the medication is excreted with breast milk.
The doctor should be consulted before taking Galvus along with any other medication, especially:
Digoxin.
Warfarin.
Blood pressure drugs.