Antidiabetic (combination of DPP-4 inhibitor and biguanide)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Vildagliptin/Metformin is a combination diabetes tablet that works in two ways — vildagliptin helps your body produce more insulin when blood sugar is high and reduces sugar made by the liver, while metformin helps your body respond better to insulin and reduces the amount of sugar your liver releases into your blood.
Inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme, increasing incretin levels to enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppress glucagon release; simultaneously reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity through mitochondrial mechanisms.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
The usual dose is one tablet twice a day — one in the morning and one in the evening, taken with food to reduce stomach upset. Your doctor will decide the right strength for you based on your current blood sugar levels. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but only if it is close to your usual time. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — brands like Eliora, Vilza Plus, or Xavat should have NAFDAC numbers; avoid buying from roadside sellers or unverified sources. Do not stop taking this medicine because you feel fine — diabetes is a long-term condition that needs consistent management. Check your blood sugar regularly as advised by your doctor, and carry a sugary snack in case of low blood sugar episodes.
Alcohol — drinking alcohol while on this drug increases your risk of lactic acidosis and can cause dangerously low blood sugar, so avoid or limit it. If you are given contrast dye for a scan (like CT scan), tell the doctor you take this medicine as it may need to be stopped temporarily. Other diabetes medicines, especially insulin, may cause your blood sugar to drop too low when combined, so your doctor needs to know all medicines you are taking.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Vidagliptin; with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby, consult your doctor immediately for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C — avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, near windows, or in hot cars, as Nigerian heat can damage the medicine. Keep it in its original packaging away from moisture and always out of the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Vidagliptin; Metformin?
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