Available Brands
Did you find this information helpful?
Author Details

Written By
P. Thirumal Reddy
B. Pharm

Reviewed By
Dr. Tejashwin Adiga
MBBS
Last updated : 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)

Want to know more?
Read Our Editorial Policy
Quick Summary
VILDAGLIPTIN
Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:31 AM (IST)
VILDAGLIPTIN
Background and Date of approval VILDAGLIPTIN
Vildagliptin is an antidiabetic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating Type 2 Diabetes mellitus.
Uses of VILDAGLIPTIN
Vildagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the blood sugar (glucose) level is high in the body. It occurs when the body cells become resistant to the effect of insulin. As a result of this insulin resistance, the blood glucose level in the body increases. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not make sufficient insulin, or the insulin that is produced is not used well. It is otherwise also known as non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and since it usually occurs past middle age, it is also widely referred to as mature onset diabetes.
How is VILDAGLIPTIN administered?
Take the Vildagliptin as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects of VILDAGLIPTIN
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Vildagliptin are itchy rash, trembling, headache, dizziness, muscle pain, joint pain, constipation, excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea, heartburn, nausea (feeling sick), and blurred vision. Some serious side effects include angioedema, liver disease (hepatitis), and pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis).
Warnings
This drug should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically advised by your physician. Notify your physician if you are pregnant, suspecting, or planning for the pregnancy. It is not known whether Vildagliptin passes into breast milk. You should not use this drug if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. This medication is not to be taken by children and adolescents under 18. This recommendation is likely due to this age group's limited safety and efficacy data.
Precautions
If you suspect an allergy to the drug or its components, avoid taking the medicine and consult your doctor. This drug is not recommended in individuals with diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes caused by high blood sugar and the presence of ketones in the blood. If you are taking an anti-diabetic medicine known as sulphonylurea if you are on dialysis due to kidney problems or liver disease, or if you have had heart failure or a history of pancreatic disease. Your doctor may need to adjust the drug dose when taking it together with Vildagliptin to prevent low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).
Word of Advice
Vildagliptin is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Work closely with your physician and a registered dietitian to develop a diabetes management plan that includes lifestyle modifications. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as advised by your doctor. This will help you and your physician assess the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.
Is Vildagliptin a substitute for insulin?
Vildagliptin is not a substitute for insulin. It is used to help manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, but it does not replace insulin therapy. In some cases, Vildagliptin may be used alongside insulin treatment.
Q2.
Can Vildagliptin be taken with other diabetes medications?
Vildagliptin is often used in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin or sulfonylureas, to achieve better blood sugar control. Your physician will determine the most suitable treatment plan for you.
Q3.
Is Vildagliptin a cure for diabetes?
Vildagliptin is not a cure for diabetes. It is a medication that helps manage blood sugar levels, but it does not eliminate the underlying causes of type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, are also important for diabetes management.
Q4.
Can Vildagliptin be used in children with diabetes?
Vildagliptin is typically not approved for use in children with diabetes. Its safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients may not be established.
Q5.
How should I take Vildagliptin?
You should take Vildagliptin exactly as prescribed by your physician. Typically, it is taken orally, with or without food, usually once or twice a day. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
References
- Pharmadox Healthcare Ltd., Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on August 2023] [Accessed on 14th Sept 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.14380.pdf
- Galenicum Health, S.L, [Revised on April 2023] [Accessed on 14th Sept 2023], https://medicinesauthority.gov.mt/file.ashx?f=0594EAF2C2622B403776FD1C302BFCBAFBF6CB6184EDD15C
- Martha S. Nolte Kennedy, Umesh Masharani, Pancreatic Hormones & Anti-diabetic Drugs, Lange’s Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 747-771.
- KD Tripathi, Insulin, Oral Antidiabetic Drugs and Glucagon, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 280-305.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.






