Is Galvus a safe medicine?
Patient: i m diabetic type 2 aged 26 with sugar around 180-200. previously i was prescribed glyciphage and now shifted to galvus met 50mg half a dose after lunch and the rest after diner. i read galvus met is not recommended in USA, so is ti safe to take it or can you prescribe an alternative? any side effects u came across Doctor: Hi,  Yes, it is a safe medicine for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Galvus (Vildagliptin) belongs to a class of drug known as DDP-4 inhibitors which works by blocking the breakdown of ‘incretin’ hormones in the body.   These hormones are released after a meal and stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin.   By increasing levels of incretin hormones in the blood, galvus stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood glucose levels are high.   It is widely used either alone or along with other antidiabetic drugs like metformin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.  The most common side effects of galvus include headache, nasopharyngitis, cough, constipation, dizziness, and increased sweating which gradually wean off over a period of time.  The most common side effects of metformin include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and very rarely a serious condition called 'lactic acidosis'.  Every drug has its own side effects but it is not essential that everyone will get that. There are many drugs used for treating diabetes. But there is not a single drug which does not has its known side effects.  If you are not comfortable with the side effects of galvus met you have to discuss with your doctor to prescribe an alternate effective but a safer medication for the control of your blood sugar.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Take care  Regards, Dr Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician