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
Summary
Vildagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes, which is a condition where the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. It helps control blood sugar levels and is often used with other diabetes medications to improve effectiveness.
Vildagliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which breaks down incretin hormones. These hormones help regulate insulin and glucagon, which are hormones that control blood sugar. By blocking DPP-4, Vildagliptin increases incretin levels, improving blood sugar control.
The usual starting dose of Vildagliptin for adults is 50 mg once or twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood sugar control and how well you tolerate the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Common side effects of Vildagliptin include dizziness and headache. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Vildagliptin, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Vildagliptin can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. If you experience symptoms like jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine, contact your doctor immediately. Vildagliptin can also cause pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Indications and Purpose
How does Vildagliptin work?
Vildagliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which breaks down incretin hormones. These hormones help regulate insulin and glucagon, which are hormones that control blood sugar. By blocking DPP-4, Vildagliptin increases incretin levels, improving blood sugar control. Think of it like a thermostat that helps maintain the right temperature, keeping your blood sugar levels balanced.
Is Vildagliptin effective?
Vildagliptin is effective for managing type 2 diabetes. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones, which help control blood sugar levels. Clinical studies show Vildagliptin improves blood sugar control in diabetes patients. It is often used in combination with other diabetes medications to enhance its effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's advice for the best results.
What is Vildagliptin?
Vildagliptin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors, which help control blood sugar levels by increasing the levels of incretin hormones. These hormones help regulate insulin and glucagon, which are hormones that control blood sugar. Vildagliptin is often used in combination with other diabetes medications to enhance its effectiveness.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Vildagliptin?
Vildagliptin is usually a long-term medication for managing type 2 diabetes. You'll typically take Vildagliptin every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of Vildagliptin?
If you can, bring unused Vildagliptin to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Vildagliptin?
Take Vildagliptin as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. You can take it with or without food. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for Vildagliptin to start working?
Vildagliptin begins working in your body shortly after you take it. You might see some improvement in blood sugar levels within days, but more significant changes typically take several weeks. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and how well you follow your treatment plan. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store Vildagliptin?
Store Vildagliptin at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store Vildagliptin out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Vildagliptin?
The usual starting dose of Vildagliptin for adults is 50 mg once or twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood sugar control and how well you tolerate the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Vildagliptin with other prescription drugs?
Vildagliptin can interact with other diabetes medications, increasing the risk of low blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia. It may also interact with medications that affect liver function. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can help manage your medications to minimize risks and ensure effective treatment.
Can Vildagliptin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Vildagliptin is not recommended while breastfeeding due to limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk. While we don't have specific reports of harm to breastfed babies from Vildagliptin, we can't rule out potential risks. If you're taking Vildagliptin and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can Vildagliptin be taken safely while pregnant?
Vildagliptin isn't recommended during pregnancy due to limited evidence on its safety. Uncontrolled diabetes during pregnancy can cause serious problems for both mother and baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your blood sugar. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Does Vildagliptin have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Vildagliptin include dizziness and headache. Serious side effects can include liver problems and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. If you experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain or jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical attention immediately. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms.
Does Vildagliptin have any safety warnings?
Vildagliptin has important safety warnings. It can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. If you experience symptoms like jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine, contact your doctor immediately. Vildagliptin can also cause pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Vildagliptin?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Vildagliptin. Drinking alcohol can increase your risk of low blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia. This condition can cause dizziness, confusion, or even fainting. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for warning signs like dizziness or confusion. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Vildagliptin to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Vildagliptin?
You can exercise while taking Vildagliptin, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can lower your blood sugar, which is called hypoglycemia, particularly if you take insulin or certain other diabetes medications. Low blood sugar might make you feel weak during workouts. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. Watch for signs of dizziness, unusual fatigue, or low blood sugar.
Is it safe to stop Vildagliptin?
Stopping Vildagliptin suddenly can cause your blood sugar levels to rise quickly. This medication is usually used long-term for managing type 2 diabetes. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Vildagliptin. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely.
Is Vildagliptin addictive?
Vildagliptin is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Vildagliptin works by affecting enzymes in your body to help control blood sugar levels. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Vildagliptin doesn't carry this risk.
Is Vildagliptin safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to safety risks of medications due to age-related changes in the body. Vildagliptin is generally safe for the elderly, but they may be at higher risk for side effects like dizziness. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor about the specific risks and benefits of Vildagliptin for elderly patients.
What are the most common side effects of Vildagliptin?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Vildagliptin include dizziness and headache. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Vildagliptin, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Vildagliptin?
Don't take Vildagliptin if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Vildagliptin shouldn't be used by people with severe liver problems, as it might worsen liver function. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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