Galvus (Vildagliptin)

Do's

• Obtain a prescription: Galvus can only be obtained with a prescription from a healthcare provider.
• Follow the recommended dosage: Take Galvus as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The recommended dose varies depending on the treatment combination and the patient's kidney function.
• Take at the recommended times: Take Galvus according to the prescribed dosing schedule. For example, one tablet in the morning and another in the evening, or one tablet in the morning. Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor blood glucose levels: Regularly monitor your blood glucose levels as advised by your healthcare provider. This helps to ensure that your diabetes is well-controlled.
• Check liver function: Before starting treatment with Galvus and at regular intervals during treatment, your healthcare provider may carry out tests to check your liver function. This is because Galvus has been associated with liver problems.

Don'ts

• Do not exceed the prescribed dose: Take Galvus exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose unless instructed to do so.
• Do not take without a prescription: Galvus should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Do not take it without a prescription.
• Do not stop treatment without consulting your healthcare provider. Continue taking Galvus as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop the treatment without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel better.
• Do not ignore symptoms or side effects: If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Galvus, such as liver-related symptoms, inform your healthcare provider immediately.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tremor
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Joint pain
• Constipation
• Swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet

Serious Side Effects:

• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels): Galvus may cause hypoglycemia, especially when taken in combination with other oral antidiabetic medications. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include hunger, irritability, confusion, anxiety, and shakiness.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, serious allergic reactions to Galvus can occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Galvus, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Galvus is not for treating diabetic ketoacidosis and should not replace insulin if you require it.

Galvus can affect your liver function. Your healthcare provider will monitor your liver function with tests before starting and during treatment.

used with other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar, Galvus may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Be aware of symptoms and have a plan for managing low blood sugar.

There is limited data on the safety of Galvus during pregnancy. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

It is unknown if Galvus passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using Galvus.

While uncommon, allergic reactions to Galvus are possible. Disclose any allergies to your healthcare provider before starting this medication.

Attend scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your diabetes and the effectiveness of Galvus.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Galvus may interact with other medications.