Jalra (Vildagliptin)

Jalra (vildagliptin) is indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition characterized by impaired insulin secretion and increased glucagon production.

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus: improves blood glucose control by enhancing insulin release and reducing glucagon.
• Monotherapy in type 2 diabetes: lowers HbA1c when used alone alongside diet and exercise.
• Combination therapy with metformin: provides additional reduction in fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c.

• Vildagliptin selectively inhibits the dipeptidyl peptidase‑4 (DPP‑4) enzyme, which degrades the incretin hormones GLP‑1 and GIP. By preventing this degradation, vildagliptin increases circulating incretin levels, leading to glucose‑dependent stimulation of insulin secretion and suppression of glucagon release, thereby improving post‑prandial and overall glycemic control.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Headache: transient cranial pain.
• Dizziness: occasional light‑headedness.
• Upper respiratory tract infection: nasopharyngitis or mild cough.
• Hypoglycemia (when combined with sulfonylureas or insulin): low blood sugar episodes.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Pancreatitis: severe abdominal pain requiring medical attention.
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, angioedema, or anaphylaxis.
• Hepatic injury: elevated liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Bullous skin disorders: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Severe hypoglycemia: prolonged low glucose requiring assistance.

Before initiating therapy, consider patient‑specific factors and monitor for adverse events.

• Renal function: assess creatinine clearance and adjust dose in impairment.
• Hepatic function: evaluate liver enzymes prior to use.
• Pancreatitis risk: discontinue if severe abdominal pain occurs.
• Concomitant sulfonylureas or insulin: monitor blood glucose closely to avoid hypoglycemia.
• Elderly patients: start at lower dose and titrate cautiously.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Vildagliptin may interact with several co‑administered medicines, requiring clinical awareness.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other DPP‑4 inhibitors: additive inhibition may increase risk of adverse effects.
• Insulin or sulfonylureas: heightened risk of severe hypoglycemia.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: may affect renal function, especially in patients with existing renal impairment.
• Diuretics: monitor electrolytes and renal parameters.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: watch for changes in blood pressure and renal function.
• Warfarin: occasional reports of altered INR, require periodic monitoring.