Products
Vildagliptin is commercially available in tablet form as a monopreparation (Galvus) and in fixed combination with metformin (Galvumet). It has been approved in the EU since 2007 and in many countries since 2008. Generic versions were registered in 2020.
Structure and properties
Vildagliptin (C17H25N3O2, Mr = 303.40 g/mol) is a hydroxy-adamantane, a carbonitrile and pyrrolidine derivative.
Effects
Vildagliptin (ATC A10BH02) has antidiabetic properties. The effects are due to selective inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). Vildagliptin promotes insulin synthesis and release from pancreatic beta cells, improves beta cell sensitivity to glucose, and increases its uptake into tissues. It reduces glucagon secretion from alpha cells, resulting in decreased glucose production in the liver.
Indications
For the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The tablets are taken once or twice daily and independently of meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Vildagliptin does not interact with CYP450 and has a low potential for drug-drug interactions.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include dizziness, tremor, and nausea. Post-marketing cases of pancreatitis and hepatitis (inflammation of the pancreas and liver, respectively) have been reported very rarely.
