Galvus

In Aotearoa New Zealand Galvus is available as tablets (50 mg). 

• The usual dose of Galvus is 1 tablet once a day or twice a day.
• Always take your Galvus exactly as your doctor has told you. The pharmacy label on your medicine will tell you how much to take, how often to take it, and any special instructions.

• Timing: Take Galvus once or twice a day. Galvus is usually taken once a day, in the morning. If you have been told to take 2 doses each day, take your first dose in the morning and the second dose in the evening. Take your medicine at about the same time each day.
• Swallow your tablets whole, with a drink of water. You can take the Galvus with or without food. If you have problems swallowing Galvus tablets, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Read more about tips for swallowing tablets and capsules.
• Missed dose: If you forget your dose, take it as soon as you remember that day. But, if it is nearly time for your next dose, just take the next dose at the right time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
• Stay well hydrated: make sure you drink enough water, and stay well hydrated while you are taking Galvus.
• Limit or avoid alcohol while you are taking Galvus: It may affect your blood glucose control and increase your risk of side effects such as nausea and dizziness. Read more about diabetes and alcohol.
• Keep taking Galvus regularly. To control your diabetes, you must keep taking Galvus every day. Do not stop taking Galvus suddenly, speak to your doctor or nurse before stopping.

Here are some things to know when you're taking Galvus. Other things may be important as well, so ask your healthcare provider what you should know about.

Have a sick day plan for when you're unwell

If you have diarrhoea (runny poo) or are vomiting (being sick) from a stomach bug, or are dehydrated, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know, as they may advise you to stop taking Galvus for a few days and start again when you are eating and drinking normally. Read more about having a diabetes sick day plan.

Taking other medicines

Galvus can interact with some medicines, herbal supplements and rongoā Māori, so check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting Galvus and before starting any new products.

Blood tests and monitoring

You’ll have regular blood tests to check how well your Galvus is working and to check your liver.

Pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding

It is important to talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible if you're trying to get pregnant, are pregnant (hapū) or breastfeeding. You may need to change to another medicine.

Like all medicines, Galvus can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. If you're concerned about any symptoms you think might be related to your medicine, talk to your healthcare provider. The following information offers some guidance but doesn't include all possible side effects.

Common side effects

• Nausea (feeling sick)
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea (runny poo)
• Runny nose, congestion, sneezing
• Headache
• Joint or back pain
• Constipation.

Tell your healthcare provider immediately or phone Healthline free on 0800 611 116 if these occur

• Skin rash, itching, or blisters.
• Swollen hands or feet.
• Signs of problems with your pancreas such as ongoing and severe tummy (stomach) pain.
• Signs of problems with your liver such as tummy pain, skin and eyes turn a yellow colour, itchy skin, pee is a dark colour, poos are a pale colour.

Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect.