Galvus Met 50/500 mg Tablet

Generic Name: Vildagliptin 50 mg + Metformin Hydrochloride 500 mg
Category: Oral Anti-Diabetic (DPP-4 Inhibitor + Biguanide Combination)

Description:

Galvus Met 50/500 mg Tablet is a combination anti-diabetic medicine used in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It contains Vildagliptin (a DPP-4 inhibitor) and Metformin (a biguanide).

• Vildagliptin works by inhibiting the DPP-4 enzyme, which increases incretin hormone levels. Incretins stimulate insulin release from the pancreas and reduce excess glucose production by the liver.

• Metformin lowers glucose production in the liver, slows glucose absorption from the intestine, and improves insulin sensitivity.

Together, they provide better blood sugar control than single therapy, with a low risk of hypoglycemia and additional benefits for weight management.

Uses:

• Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in adults (when diet, exercise, and single therapy are insufficient)

• Helps reduce the risk of diabetes complications like kidney damage, neuropathy, retinopathy, heart disease, and stroke

Mechanism of Action:

• Vildagliptin (50 mg): DPP-4 inhibitor → boosts incretin hormones → increases insulin release (when sugar is high) & reduces glucagon → lowers blood sugar

• Metformin (500 mg): Decreases hepatic glucose production, improves insulin sensitivity, slows intestinal glucose absorption

• Combined effect: Lowers fasting and post-meal glucose levels effectively

Dosage & Administration:

• Usual dose: 1 tablet twice daily with meals (doctor decides regimen)

• Must be taken with food to minimize stomach upset from Metformin

• Swallow whole with water, do not crush or chew

• Dose adjustment required in kidney impairment

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort (Metformin-related)

• Headache, dizziness, mild infections (Vildagliptin-related)

• Hypoglycemia (rare, higher if combined with insulin/sulfonylureas)

• Fatigue, loss of appetite

Serious Side Effects (rare):

• Lactic acidosis (Metformin) – fatigue, breathing difficulty, muscle pain, drowsiness

• Liver dysfunction (Vildagliptin) – yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine

• Pancreatitis – severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Warnings & Precautions:

• Not for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

• Avoid in patients with severe kidney or liver disease

• Regular monitoring of blood sugar, HbA1c, kidney, and liver function is required

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption (increases risk of lactic acidosis)

• Maintain hydration and healthy diet for best results