DPP-4 Inhibitor (Anti-diabetic)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Vildagliptin is a diabetes medicine that works by helping your body produce more insulin when your blood sugar is high and telling your liver to stop making extra sugar. It belongs to a group of medicines called DPP-4 inhibitors that help your body better control blood sugar levels naturally.
Inhibits dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), preventing the degradation of incretin hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) and thereby increasing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon release in response to elevated blood glucose levels.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
The usual dose is one 50 mg tablet taken twice a day — one in the morning and one in the evening. You can take it with or without food. If your doctor combines it with another diabetes medicine like metformin, they may adjust the dose to one 50 mg tablet once a day. Always follow your doctor's instructions. Available in Nigeria as Galvus, Gliptus, Glipvas, Vildishal, Vilget, Wilcreas, or Xyvida.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for the one you missed.
Only buy from licensed pharmacies — avoid purchasing from roadside vendors or unregistered sellers, as fake diabetes drugs are common. Your doctor should check your liver function with blood tests before starting and regularly during treatment. Do not stop taking the medicine because you feel fine — diabetes requires continuous management even when you have no symptoms.
Be careful when taking vildagliptin with other diabetes medicines like glimepiride or insulin, as combining them can make your blood sugar drop too low (hypoglycaemia). ACE inhibitors used for high blood pressure (like lisinopril or ramipril) may increase the risk of swelling when used with vildagliptin. Always tell your doctor about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Vildagliptin with your other drugs?
Vildagliptin is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor immediately for a safer alternative.
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C — away from direct sunlight and heat, which is especially important in hot Nigerian weather. Keep the tablets in their original packaging to protect from moisture. Always keep out of 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.
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