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Galvumet

Also called vildagliptin + metformin

Key points about Galvumet

Galvumet is used to treat type 2 diabetes.
Galvumet is also called vildagliptin + metformin.
Find out how to take it safely and the possible side effects.

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Galvumet is a combination of two medicines, vildagliptin and metformin, in a single tablet. Note: vildagliptin on its own is called Galvus. Read more about Galvus.

Galvumet is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Galvumet helps to control blood glucose levels by making your pancreas produce more insulin and less glucagon (effect of vildagliptin) and also by helping your body to make better use of the insulin it produces (effect of metformin). Read more about type 2 diabetes.

In Aotearoa New Zealand Galvumet is available as tablets in 2 strengths – Galvumet 50/850 mg and Galvumet 50/1000 mg.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist which strength you are taking.
The usual dose of Galvumet is 1 tablet twice a day.
Always take your Galvumet exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

Take Galvumet twice a day, in the morning and the evening. It is best to take Galvumet with food. Swallow your tablets whole with a glass of water (200–250 mLs).
Missed dose: If you forget your dose, take it as soon as you remember that day. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take double the dose.
Keep taking Galvumet regularly. To control your diabetes, you must keep taking Galvumet every day. Do not stop taking Galvumet suddenly, speak to your doctor or nurse before stopping.

Here are some things to know when you're taking Galvumet. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

Limit alcohol while taking Galvumet. Having the occasional drink while you are taking Galvumet is safe. However, regularly drinking excessive amounts increases your chance of side effects and reduces the effects of Galvumet. Read more about diabetes and alcohol.
Vomiting or diarrhoea (runny poos): If you have severe gastro such as vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than a few hours and are at risk of dehydration, ask your healthcare provider for advice. They may recommend that you stop taking Galvumet until you are better. Read more about a sick day plan for people with type 2 diabetes.
Galvumet and other medicines or supplements: Galvumet can interact with some medications, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Galvumet and before starting any new products.

Like all medicines, Galvumet can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine.

Side effects	What should I do?
Nausea (feeling sick) Dizziness Headache Joint or back pain	These are quite common when you first start taking Galvumet. Tell your doctor if they bother you.
Diarrhoea (runny poos)	This is less common. Tell your doctor.
Signs of problems with your pancreas such as ongoing and severe tummy (stomach) pain	Problems with your pancreas are rare but serious. Tell your doctor immediately or ring Healthline 0800 611 116.
Signs of problems with your liver such as tummy pain, skin and eyes turn a yellow colour, itchy skin, pee is a dark colour, poos are a pale colour	Liver problems are rare but serious. If you develop signs of liver problems, tell your doctor immediately or ring Healthline 0800 611 116. Your doctor will monitor your liver function before you start Galvumet and regularly while you are taking Galvumet.
For more information on side effects, see the Medsafe consumer information leaflet/s below. Did you know that you can report a side effect to a medicine to CARM (Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring)? Report a side effect to a product.(external link)