GLY-50 TABLETS (Each tablet contains Vildaglipton 50mg
Vildaglipton
What it does
Vildagliptin is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes (sugar diabetes).
Commonly used for: Type 2 diabetes (sugar diabetes)
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-05-22 02:34:40 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:08
About this medicine
Vildagliptin is a medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes (sugar diabetes).
What it treats
- Type 2 diabetes (sugar diabetes)
How it works
Vildagliptin helps the body to make more insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels.
Who it's for
People with type 2 diabetes who cannot control their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: vildaglipton
Vildagliptin is an oral antihyperglycemic agent that belongs to the class of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It is primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. By enhancing the body's own ability to lower blood glucose levels, vildagliptin helps improve glycemic control in patients with this condition. It is typically used in combination with other antidiabetic medications to achieve better glucose control.
Indications
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Inadequate glycemic control with diet and exercise alone
- Combination therapy with other antidiabetic agents
Dosage
Adults: Refer to prescribing information for specific adult dosing guidelines based on individual patient needs and combination
Mechanism of action
Vildagliptin works by inhibiting the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). This inhibition leads to increased levels of incretin hormones, such as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide). These hormones enhance insulin secretion in response to meals and suppress glucagon secretion, which in turn helps reduce hepatic glucose production. The overall effect is a decrease in blood glucose levels, particularly after meals.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of vildagliptin include increased insulin secretion and decreased glucagon levels in the circulation, which leads to improved postprandial (after meal) glucose control. It also has a low risk of causing hypoglycemia when used alone, as its mechanism of action is glucose-dependent. Additionally, vildagliptin may have beneficial effects on beta-cell function and may help preserve pancreatic function over time in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Pharmacokinetics
Vildagliptin is well absorbed after oral administration, with a bioavailability of approximately 85%. It reaches peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours. The drug is primarily excreted via the kidneys, with about 80% of an administered dose eliminated in the urine, primarily as unchanged drug. The half-life of vildagliptin is approximately 2 hours, and it is not significantly metabolized by the liver. Renal impairment can affect its clearance, necessitating dose adjustment in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to vildagliptin or any of its excipients
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR < 30 mL/min)
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Hypoglycemia (especially in combination with other antidiabetic agents)
- Pancreatitis
- Skin reactions (e.g., rash)
Interactions
- Concurrent use with insulin or sulfonylureas may increase the risk of hypoglycemia
- Caution advised when used with other medications that affect renal function
- May interact with CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers
Precautions
- Monitor renal function prior to and during treatment
- Use caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis
- Assess for signs of hypersensitivity reactions
- Consider potential for hypoglycemia when used with other antidiabetic medications
Pregnancy
There is limited data on the use of vildagliptin in pregnant women. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether vildagliptin is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering to nursing women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets: 50 mg
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.