Drug Name

Glucotrol XL (Glipizide)

 Drug Uses

Glucotrol XL is an anti-diabetic drug (sulfonylurea-type), used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar.

Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew or break the tablets. Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily with breakfast; or use as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Monitor blood glucose levels on a regular basis.

 Drug Class and Mechanism

It is used in patients with type II diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). It works by stimulating the release of your body's natural insulin. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, blindness, and circulation problems, as well as sexual function problems (impotence).

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

 Warnings/Precautions

Before taking Glucotrol XL, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: metabolic conditions (e.g., diabetic ketoacidosis). Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid disease, certain hormonal conditions (adrenal/pituitary insufficiency, SIADH-syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone), electrolyte imbalance (hyponatremia), stomach/intestine problems (e.g., gastrointestinal stenosis or stricture, impaired emptying). You may experience blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar levels; use caution, engaging in activities, requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcohol while taking this medication because it can increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia. Alcohol can rarely interact with glipizide and cause a serious reaction (disulfiram-like reaction) with symptoms such as facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or stomach pain. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of alcohol. During times of stress, such as fever, infection, injury or surgery, it may be more difficult to control your blood sugar. Consult your doctor, as a change in your medication may be required. This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths or sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially hypoglycemia. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It is not recommended for use for at least one month before delivery due to the potential for fetal harm. Insulin may be preferred during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Based on information from related drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk. Therefore, breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended.

 Possible Side Effects

Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, gas, headache, and weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This is harmless. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: persistent sore throat or fever, easy bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness or weakness, unusual or sudden weight gain, mental/mood changes, swelling of the hands or feet, seizures. This medication can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This effect may occur if you do not consume enough calories (from food, juices, fruit, etc.). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, shaking, rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting, tingling of the hands or feet, or hunger. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you are in a situation where you don't have these reliable forms of glucose, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or drink a glass of orange juice or non-diet soda to quickly raise your blood sugar level. Tell your doctor immediately about the reaction. To help prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor immediately. Your medication dosage may need to be increased. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

 More Information

Do not share this medication with others. It is recommended you attend a diabetes education program to better understand diabetes and all the important aspects of its treatment, including meals/diet, exercise, personal hygiene, medications and getting regular eye, foot, and medical exams. Consult your doctor or pharmacist. Keep all medical appointments. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver and kidney function tests, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c, complete blood counts) will be performed to monitor for side effects and response to therapy. Regularly check your blood or urine for sugar, as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.

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