vildagliptin (vildagliptin)
Overview of vildagliptin
vildagliptin is a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor. It works by increasing the amount of two incretin hormones found in the body, called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP). These hormones are normally produced naturally by the body in response to food intake. Their function is to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels. It is used to treat type 2 or non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM) in combination with a sulphonylurea (50 mg once daily), metformin or a glitazone (50 mg twice daily).
Indication of vildagliptin
vildagliptin is primarily indicated in conditions like Type II diabetes mellitus.
Contraindication of vildagliptin
vildagliptin is contraindicated in conditions like Hypersensitivity to the drug.
Side Effects of vildagliptin
vildagliptin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Angioedema. which are responsible for the discontinuation of vildagliptin therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of vildagliptin include Muscle aches, Fever, Swelling of feet and lower legs, Mild paresthesia.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by vildagliptin are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Fatigue, Nausea, Asthenia, Hypoglycemia.
Precautions of vildagliptin
Do not use in patients with type 1 diabetes or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis. not recommended in ESRD on haemodialysis patients. Do not use in patients with hepatic impairment, including patients with pre-treatment ALT or AST > 3x ULN. Liver function should be monitored during treatment with vildagliptin at three-month intervals during the first year and periodically thereafter. Patients who develop jaundice or other signs suggestive of liver dysfunction should discontinue it. Following withdrawal of treatment with vildagliptin and LFT normalisation, treatment with vildagliptin should not be reinitiated. Monitoring for skin disorders, such as blistering or ulceration, is recommended while keeping with routine care of the diabetic patient.