Galvus Met (Vildagliptin/Metformin) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Galvus Met Uses 

Galvus Met, with the generic name vildagliptin and metformin hydrochloride, is an oral medication indicated to improve glycemic control of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus whose blood sugar is inadequately controlled on metformin alone. This is prescribed along with proper diet and exercise. By controlling your blood sugar level, Galvus Met helps avoid complications of diabetes, such as heart attack, stroke, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and kidney damage. 

This is available in Galvus Met 50/850 mg, 50/1000 mg, and 50/500 mg film-coated tablets. 

Galvus Met Mechanism of Action 

This prescription drug is a combination of a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor and biguanide. It works by increasing the levels of incretin hormones which improves the sensitivity of beta cells to glucose. Thus, improving glucose-dependent insulin secretion. It can also reduce hepatic glucose production by inhibiting gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, increasing insulin sensitivity, and delaying intestinal glucose absorption. 

How to use Galvus Met 

First, read the medication information page that comes with this product. Do not take any antihyperglycemic if you have not yet fully understood the drug information and instructions printed in the guide. If you need more medical advice or have inquiries regarding the proper use of this oral drug, you may ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take this tablet orally. This is prescribed once or twice daily, depending on the directions of your physician. Take this drug with a meal to avoid stomach distress. Swallow the pill whole and immediately follow with a glass of water. Do not break, chew, or crush the film-coated tablet. 

Remember to take Galvus Met regularly and exactly as prescribed to achieve the best results. Make a dosage regimen to avoid missing medications. Your Galvus Met dosage will depend on your medical condition, tolerance to the medication, effectiveness of treatment, and other drugs you are taking. Further, do not stop taking this drug abruptly to avoid worsening conditions. 

Keep in mind that this drug is only a part of an entire treatment plan. It is also just as essential to comply with the other medications you are prescribed and with proper diet and exercise. Make sure to eat a healthy balanced diet and exercise regularly. 

Galvus Met Side Effects 

Common side effects: 

• nausea
• headache
• dizziness
• stomach upset
• gas
• diarrhea
• constipation
• loss of appetite
• fatigue
• weight changes 

In most cases, the side effects caused by Galvus Met are mild and will resolve on their own. If the adverse reactions do not get better or become worse, you must hold the drug and consult your doctor or any healthcare professional. Also, you must report severe side effects, including: 

• swelling of the extremities
• a burning sensation in the chest
• irregular heartbeat
• severe weakness
• seizure
• joint pain
• severe abdominal pain
• persistent vomiting
• dark urine
• signs of high blood sugar or hyperglycemia (increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, blurred vision, fruity-smelling breath, tingling or numbness in the extremities)
• signs of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia (shakiness, dizziness, palpitations, confusion, irritability, difficulty concentrating)

This is not a complete or full list of the side effects of Galvus Met. 

Precautions while using Galvus Met 

Before you begin using Galvus Met, you should disclose your complete medical history with your physician, including any history of hepatic impairment, heart diseases, respiratory failure, and liver disease. Some conditions may affect how your body will respond to the medication. Moreover, you must discuss all prescription medications, nonprescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking because of the possible drug interactions with this antidiabetic drug. 

Keep an eye out for any allergic reactions while on this treatment. Do not take this prescription medication if you have a known allergy to vildagliptin, metformin, or any inactive ingredients it may contain. Discontinue this oral drug and seek emergency medical attention once you notice signs of severe hypersensitivities, such as swelling of the face, itchiness, skin rashes, severe dizziness, and breathing difficulty. 

Among the adverse effects of this medication are headache and dizziness. These could be aggravated or triggered by the consumption of alcohol. As much as possible, avoid or limit drinking alcohol. You should also practice extreme caution when driving, using machinery, or doing activities that require alertness. 

This medication may cause lactic acidosis. This is a metabolic condition that may occur because of sudden renal impairment or cardiorespiratory disorders and is characterized by dyspnea, muscle cramps, abdominal pain, hypothermia, and weakness. Stay hydrated and avoid diuretics to avoid this. 

Pregnancy may worsen or cause diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider regarding your condition, for this, may warrant changes in your treatment plan. Also, breastfeeding moms must avoid this medication because of the possible harm that it could cause to nursing infants. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Galvus Met more effective than metformin? 

This diabetes drug is used if metformin does not work as monotherapy. 

Can I use Galvus Met for diabetic ketoacidosis? 

This medication is not indicated for diabetic ketoacidosis or type 1 diabetes mellitus. 

What is the difference between Galvus and Galvus Met? 

The former only contains vildagliptin, while the latter is a combination of metformin and vildagliptin. 

Does Galvus Met cause weight gain? 

Yes, this oral medication may cause weight gain. 

Can I buy Galvus Met over the counter? 

You need to secure a valid prescription from your doctor to purchase this antidiabetic drug.