subject: Glipizide - Hope For Diabetes Sufferers [print this page] Glipizide is a type of medication that is given to diabetics in the class of drugs deemed sulfonylurea. The drug fortunately has the much desired effect of hindering, to some extent, the potassium channels in the beta cells of the islets of langerhans. Consequently the actions generated by this drug will increase calcium which then increases more insulin from the beta cells.
It was placed on the market in 1984. The pharmaceutical company Pfizer distributes the drug under the brand name Glucotrol in the United States. It is sold in doses of 5 and 10 milligrams. It is also sold under different generic names by other pharmaceutical companies world wide.
A Few Precautions
It is essential that you let your doctor know if you have any of the following conditions:
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Thyroid disease
Type 1 diabetes
Any serious infection, disease, or injury
Will go to surgery immediately.
If any of these situations apply to you, the doctor may decide not to prescribed glipizide. Also the dosage may be changed and/or the doctor may insist on close monitoring while you're being treated with the drug. Persons who are 65 years and older may also require modifications to the dosage amount.
It is not entirely known what effects glipizide may have on an unborn child. For this reason if you are or may become pregnant inform your doctor; it is unlikely that you will be prescribed this medication.
Taking the Medication
Glipizide comes in tablets that will be administered orally. It is generally prescribed once a day, 30 minutes before the first meal of the day, preferably in the morning after breakfast. Make certain that you take the medication as indicated and ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify anything you do not understand about the dosage requirements. Be sure not to take above or below the amount that is prescribed. Taking too much may result in possible complications, while taking too little will cause the drug to be fairly ineffective.
The drug regimen must persist even if you are feeling better. If you discontinue unexpectedly this may disrupt the efficacy of treatment.
Side Effects
This medication may alter your blood sugar levels. You should be observant of the symptoms that correspond with high and low blood sugar (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia) respectively, and ensure that in each situation you are able to manage the unwanted effects.
Your doctor will likely advise you what to do if you become hypoglycemic. It will be advised that you check your blood sugar, consume or drink anything that contains sugar, for example, hard candy or fruit juice. Additionally, you may need to get medical attention if the symptoms are not alleviated with regular measures. Some effects of hypoglycemia may include:
Sweating
Shakiness
Numbness or strange sensations in the mouth area
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Clumsy or jerky movements
Nervousness or irritability
Sudden alterations in behaviour or mood
Headache
Weakness
Pale skin
Hunger
Storage
The medication should be stored in the original container, firmly sealed and in an area away from children. It should be stored at room temperature and free from extreme heat or cold. Get rid of any medication that has expired as it will no longer maintain its useful properties.
