GLUCOTROL
|
|
IMPORTANT NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE
FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR
OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO
INDICATE THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR
YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING GLUCOTROL.
GLIPIZIDE - ORAL TABLET (GLIP-eh-zide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Glucotrol
USES:
GLUCOTROL is used in the treatment of non-insulin dependent
diabetes. It must be used in conjunction with proper diet and
exercise to help decrease blood sugar levels.
HOW TO TAKE GLUCOTROL:
GLUCOTROL should be taken 30 minutes before a meal. Take GLUCOTROL
at the same time(s) each day in order to maintain a constant blood
level. Monitor blood glucose levels daily while taking GLUCOTROL.
You may need to be switched to insulin therapy if you develop a
severe infection, diabetic coma or undergo major surgery.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea or
vomiting may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform
your doctor if you develop itchy skin, dark urine, fever, sore
throat, swelling of the hands or feet or unusual bleeding or
bruising while taking GLUCOTROL. GLUCOTROL can cause low blood sugar
(hypoglycemia). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, shaking,
rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting. If you experience
these symptoms, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar,
orange juice, honey or non-diet soda. Tell your doctor 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 confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid
breathing or fruity breath odor. If any of these symptoms occur,
contact your doctor. GLUCOTROL can increase sensitivity to sunlight.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your complete medical history, especially if you
have high blood pressure or liver or kidney disease. Your medicine
may need to be changed. Avoid alcohol while taking GLUCOTROL. It can
cause facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or stomach pain.
GLUCOTROL may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective
clothing and a sunscreen. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are
pregnant. Insulin therapy may be necessary during pregnancy. Some
oral antidiabetic medications appear in breast milk. Consult with
your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both
prescription and nonprescription) especially if you are using
"blood thinners" (Coumadin-like drugs), MAO inhibitors
(e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine),
beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, propranolol, timolol) including
certain glaucoma eye medicines, aspirin-like drugs or probenecid
because your dose may need to be adjusted. Do not start or stop any
medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include
headache, sweating, shakiness, increased hunger, changes in vision,
nervousness, tiredness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
NOTES:
It is recommended to attend a diabetes education program to
understand diabetes and all aspects of its treatment including diet,
exercise, personal hygiene, medications and getting regular eye
exams. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease,
strokes, kidney disease and circulation problems.
MISSED DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is
almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the
dose to catch up.
STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For
information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In
Canada call 1-800-668-1507.
|
|