Metformin + Vildagliptin
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Vildagliptin and Metformin
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Advisory
- This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Metformin and Vildagliptin.
- Metformin and Vildagliptin are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
- Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Biguanide and Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Metformin + Vildagliptin
Summary
Metformin and Vildagliptin are used to manage type 2 diabetes, which is a condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar or glucose. They help improve blood sugar control in adults, especially those who are inadequately controlled with Metformin alone.
Metformin works by reducing glucose production in the liver and enhancing insulin sensitivity, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Vildagliptin increases the levels of incretin hormones, which help regulate insulin and glucagon, hormones that control blood sugar levels.
Metformin is usually taken orally in doses between 500 mg to 3000 mg per day, depending on the patient's needs and tolerance. Vildagliptin is usually prescribed at a dose of 50 mg twice daily, not exceeding 100 mg per day. Dosages are individualized based on the patient's response to treatment.
Common side effects of Metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Vildagliptin may cause headaches, dizziness, and nasopharyngitis, which is inflammation of the nose and throat. Both medications can lead to hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar.
Metformin should not be used in patients with severe kidney impairment or conditions that can cause tissue hypoxia, such as heart or respiratory failure. Vildagliptin should not be used in patients with liver impairment or a history of pancreatitis. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin work?
Metformin works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving the body's sensitivity to insulin, which helps lower blood sugar levels. Vildagliptin acts by inhibiting the enzyme DPP-4, which increases the levels of incretin hormones. These hormones enhance insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release, leading to better blood sugar control. Both medications aim to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but they do so through different mechanisms, making them complementary when used together.
How effective is combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin?
Clinical studies have demonstrated that Metformin effectively lowers blood sugar levels by reducing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity. Vildagliptin has been shown to enhance incretin hormone levels, leading to improved insulin secretion and glucagon regulation. Both medications have been proven to reduce HbA1c levels, a key marker of long-term blood sugar control, in patients with type 2 diabetes. When used together, they provide complementary mechanisms of action that enhance overall glycemic control, as evidenced by numerous clinical trials and real-world studies.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin?
For Metformin, the usual adult starting dose is 500 mg taken twice a day or 850 mg once a day, with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. The dose can be increased gradually based on glycemic control, up to a maximum of 2550 mg per day. Vildagliptin is typically prescribed at a dose of 50 mg twice daily, or 50 mg once daily when combined with a sulfonylurea. Both medications are used to manage type 2 diabetes, but they work through different mechanisms: Metformin decreases glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity, while Vildagliptin enhances the body's natural incretin hormones to regulate insulin and glucagon.
How does one take combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin?
Metformin should be taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Vildagliptin can be taken with or without food, but it is often recommended to take it at the same time each day for consistency. There are no specific food restrictions for either medication, but patients are advised to follow a balanced diet as part of their diabetes management plan. Both medications require regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, and patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
For how long is combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin taken?
Metformin and Vildagliptin are typically used as long-term treatments for managing type 2 diabetes. The duration of use is generally indefinite, as they are part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan that includes diet and exercise. Both medications are intended to be taken continuously to maintain blood sugar control, but the specific duration may vary based on individual patient needs and response to treatment. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to assess effectiveness and adjust dosages as needed.
How long does it take for combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin to work?
Metformin and Vildagliptin both work to manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but they do so in different ways. Metformin starts to lower blood sugar levels within a few days, but it may take up to two weeks to see the full effect. Vildagliptin, on the other hand, works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help to regulate insulin and glucagon, and its effects can be seen within a few days as well. Both medications are used to improve glycemic control, but the time to see the full benefits can vary depending on individual response and the combination of therapies used.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin?
Common side effects of Metformin include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach discomfort. Vildagliptin may cause dizziness, headache, and nasopharyngitis. Both medications can lead to hypoglycemia, especially when used with other diabetes drugs. Significant adverse effects include the risk of lactic acidosis with Metformin, particularly in patients with renal impairment, and rare cases of liver dysfunction with Vildagliptin. Patients should be monitored for these side effects, and any unusual symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Metformin can interact with drugs that affect kidney function, such as diuretics and NSAIDs, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. It may also interact with cimetidine, which can increase Metformin levels in the blood. Vildagliptin has a low potential for drug interactions but may increase the risk of angioedema when used with ACE inhibitors. Both medications can interact with other diabetes drugs, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to manage these interactions effectively.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin if I am pregnant?
Metformin is often used during pregnancy to manage gestational diabetes, as it has not been associated with an increased risk of birth defects. However, it should be used under medical supervision. Vildagliptin lacks sufficient data on its safety during pregnancy, and animal studies have shown some reproductive toxicity at high doses. Therefore, it is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy. Pregnant women should discuss their treatment options with their healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for both mother and child.
Can I take combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin while breastfeeding?
Metformin is known to be excreted in breast milk, but studies have not shown adverse effects on breastfed infants, making it generally considered safe during lactation. However, caution is advised, and monitoring of the infant is recommended. There is limited data on the excretion of Vildagliptin in human milk, and its use during breastfeeding is not recommended due to the lack of safety information. Mothers should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of continuing these medications while breastfeeding.
Who should avoid taking combination of Metformin and Vildagliptin?
Metformin is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment due to the risk of lactic acidosis. It should also be used cautiously in those with liver disease or a history of alcohol abuse. Vildagliptin is not recommended for patients with hepatic impairment or a history of pancreatitis. Both medications require caution in patients with heart failure. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function is essential, and patients should be aware of symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, or jaundice, which require immediate medical attention.
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