Drug Name: Glipizide
Brand Names: Glucotrol, Metaglip
Generic Name: Glipizide (glip' i zide)
Uses: Glipizide is a medication used to treat patients with non insulin-dependent or Type 2 diabetes. The drug works by stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin. It also helps the body use the insulin efficiently.
How to use: Glipizide is taken 30 minutes before breakfast once a day.
Side Effects: Among the common side effects of Glipizide include dizziness, itching or redness, headache, fever, unusual bleeding or bruising, diarrhea, dark urine, light-colored stools, gas, exaggerated sunburn, skin rashes, sore throat and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level). Rarely, it can also cause jaundice and hepatitis. Hypoglycemia will occur if Glipizide is combined with other drugs used to reduce glucose. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, confusion, weakness, pale skin, sudden hunger, headache, sweating, dizziness or lightheadedness, sudden changes in behavior or mood, clumsy or jerky movements, and nervousness or irritability. A serious condition called diabetic ketoacidosis may occur if high blood sugar is not treated. Seek immediate medical attention if you experienced any of these signs – shortness of breath, dry mouth, breath that smells fruity, vomiting and upset stomach.
Precautions: Avoid drinking alcohol while using Glipizide since this may cause lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
Drug Interaction: Low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) may occur if Glipizide is used along with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, sulfa drugs, warfarin and beta-blockers. Likewise, high blood sugar level (hyperglycemia) may also occur if Glipizide is used along with corticosteroids, diuretics, estrogens, niacin, thyroid medicines and calcium channel blocking drugs such as diltiazem.
Overdose: Blurred vision, abdominal discomfort, behavioral changes (such as when drunk), anxiety, cold sweats and pale skin are among the signs of Glipizide overdose. Other signs include confusion, decreased appetite, drowsiness, excessive hunger, increased heartbeat and shallow breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these signs are present.
Notes: Glipizide may cause your skin to become sensitive so avoid long exposure to sunlight. If this cannot be avoided, wear sunglasses or protective clothing, including sunscreen. This drug is used to treat Type 2 diabetes along with diet and exercise so follow carefully your doctor’s recommendations. You should take note of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. In any case, you may bring candy or anything that contains sugar if you experience hypoglycemia. Also follow your meal time to avoid hypoglycemia.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible but skip the dose you missed if it is almost time for the next one. Do not double the dose.
Important Note: Your doctor may order you to undergo some laboratory tests while using Glipizide such as measuring the amount of sugar in your blood or urine, or test your urine for the presence of ketones. Patients with diabetes may wear identification cards and contact numbers in case of emergency since you may experience hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
Storage: Keep Glipizide in a tightly-closed container and store at room temperature, below 30°C (86°F). Keep it away from heat and moisture.
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