Galvus is a DPP-4 inhibitor, which targets the pancreatic islet dysfunction that causes high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Galvus affects both pancreatic alpha and beta cells, leading to a reduction in sugar production from the liver together with an increase in production of insulin needed to keep blood sugar levels under control.
Galvus is suitable for once-daily dosing and has been evaluated both as monotherapy and in combination with other anti-diabetes agents. Clinical studies have found that when Galvus is used in combination with Glucophage (metformin) is very efficient. Galvus is found to be as effective as Actos (Pioglitazone) when each is combined with Glucophage (metformin).
Galvus is not recommended for patients with liver impairment, and liver monitoring should be conducted at the start of treatment, every three months for the first year, and periodically thereafter. Due to limited experience, Galvus is not recommended for patients with moderate or severe renal impairment or congestive heart failure. Galvus should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes.