Common Use

Glipizide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and belongs to the sulfonylurea class of drugs. This class includes glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (Micronase, Diabeta), tolbutamide (Orinase), and tolazamide (Tolinase). Glipizide works by stimulating insulin secretion from the beta cells of the pancreas.

Dosage and Direction

Do not change your Glipizide dose without consulting your doctor. The starting dose for immediate-release tablets is 5 mg, taken 30 minutes before a meal. The maximum daily dose is 40 mg. For extended-release tablets, the maximum daily dose should not exceed 20 mg. Take Glipizide with a full glass of water before a meal. Consistent use of this medication ensures the best treatment results.

Precautions

Glipizide treatment may increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. Avoid alcohol as it can lower blood sugar levels. Do not chew, divide, or crush extended-release tablets; swallow them whole.

Contraindications

Glipizide is contraindicated in cases of hypersensitivity, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (juvenile diabetes or diabetes accompanied by ketoacidosis or precoma), severe kidney or liver failure, gastrointestinal tract stenosis, and infancy.

Side Effects

In addition to allergic reactions (hives, rash, swelling of the face and tongue), some patients may experience headaches, dizziness, diarrhea, gas, hepatitis, jaundice, and low sodium concentration.

Drug Interaction

Alcohol can delay Glipizide's effects by slowing its absorption. Administer Glipizide 1-2 hours before cholestyramine, as cholestyramine affects its absorption. Fluconazole (Diflucan) increases Glipizide's absorption and effectiveness. Medications that lower or raise blood sugar can alter Glipizide's effects, including aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, sulfa-based drugs (e.g., sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim), MAO inhibitors, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol), thiazide diuretics, steroids (e.g., prednisone), estrogens, corticosteroids, thyroid medications, phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine), niacin, phenytoin, and calcium channel blockers.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Resume your regular schedule the next day.

Overdose

Symptoms of a Glipizide overdose include low blood sugar signs such as hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Glipizide at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F). Keep it away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in bathrooms or areas accessible to children.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Glipizide and does not cover all possible directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or any consequences arising from its use or self-treatment.