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Actos
Actos

Actos

This page contains drug information on Actos.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Actos
the possible side effects of Actos
what happens if you miss a dose of Actos
what happens if you overdose with Actos
the most important information about Actos
how to use Actos
other drugs that may affect Actos
what to avoid while using Actos


Generic Name: pioglitazone (oral) (pie oh GLIH ta zone)
Brand Names: Actos


What is the most important information I should know about pioglitazone?

  • Usually, liver function is monitored with blood tests at the start of treatment, every two months for the first year of treatment, and periodically thereafter during treatment with pioglitazone. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine. These symptoms may be early signs of liver problems.
  • Notify your doctor immediately if you experience an unusually rapid increase in weight or edema (water retention), shortness of breath, or chest pain during treatment with pioglitazone. These may be early symptoms of heart problems.
  • Pioglitazone usually does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). However, hypoglycemia may occur as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption while taking pioglitazone. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
  • Pioglitazone may decrease the effects of some birth control pills. Additional measures may be necessary to prevent pregnancy while taking pioglitazone. Talk to your doctor about the use of birth control.

What is pioglitazone?

  • Pioglitazone is an antihyperglycemic agent. It helps the body respond better to insulin and it reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver. It can help control blood sugar levels.
  • Pioglitazone is used, along with diet and exercise, in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Pioglitazone may also be used with a sulfonylurea (e.g., Diabeta, Glucotrol, Micronase, others), metformin (Glucophage), or insulin when diet and exercise plus any one of these medicines alone do not result in adequate blood sugar control.
  • Pioglitazone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pioglitazone?

Do not take pioglitazone without first talking to your doctor if you have liver disease.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

  • have heart failure or heart disease;
  • have edema (water retention or swelling);
  • have type 1 diabetes mellitus;
  • have a serious infection, illness, or injury; or
  • need surgery.
  • You may not be able to take pioglitazone, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
  • Contact your doctor if you develop a fever or an infection, require surgery, or if you experience a serious injury. Illness or injury may cause a loss of blood sugar control and insulin (or an adjustment of a current insulin dose) may be required for a period of time.
  • Treatment with pioglitazone may cause resumption of fertility by allowing for the return of ovulation (production of eggs) in certain women with insulin resistance who were not ovulating before treatment with pioglitazone. Talk to your doctor about adequate forms of birth control while taking pioglitazone if birth control is desired.
  • Pioglitazone is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether pioglitazone will be harmful to an unborn baby. Generally, insulin is the drug of choice for controlling diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take pioglitazone without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  • It is not known whether pioglitazone passes into breast milk. Do not take pioglitazone without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
  • The safety and effectiveness of pioglitazone have not been established for children.

How should I take pioglitazone?

  • Take pioglitazone exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
  • Pioglitazone can be taken with or without food or meals.
  • It is important to take pioglitazone regularly to get the most benefit.
  • Your doctor may want you to have blood or urine tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with pioglitazone to monitor blood sugar levels, liver function, or other factors.
  • Usually, liver function is monitored with blood tests at the start of treatment, every two months for the first year of treatment, and periodically thereafter during treatment with pioglitazone. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, or dark urine. These symptoms may be early signs of liver problems.
  • Although pioglitazone does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hypoglycemia may result from skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
  • Store pioglitazone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
  • Symptoms of a pioglitazone overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking pioglitazone?

  • Follow any diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of these factors can affect blood sugar levels.
  • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.
  • Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery.
  • Do not take over-the-counter or prescription cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight-loss medications during treatment with pioglitazone without first talking to your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of pioglitazone?

  • If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking pioglitazone and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:
  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  • nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or loss of appetite;
  • unusual fatigue;
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
  • dark urine.
  • Notify your doctor immediately if you experience an unusually rapid increase in weight or edema (swelling, water retention), shortness of breath, or chest pain during treatment with pioglitazone. These may be early symptoms of heart problems.
  • Although pioglitazone does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hypoglycemia may result from skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
  • Other less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take pioglitazone and talk to your doctor if you experience:
  • headache;
  • muscle aches; or
  • sore throat, nasal discharge, or cold symptoms.
  • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect pioglitazone?

  • Pioglitazone may decrease the effects of some birth control pills. Additional measures may be necessary to prevent pregnancy while taking pioglitazone. Talk to your doctor about the use of birth control.
  • Do not take over-the-counter or prescription cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight-loss medications during treatment with pioglitazone without first talking to your doctor.
  • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with pioglitazone or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.
Amaryl
Amaryl

Amaryl

This page contains drug information on Amaryl.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Amaryl
the possible side effects of Amaryl
what happens if you miss a dose of Amaryl
what happens if you overdose with Amaryl
the most important information about Amaryl
how to use Amaryl
other drugs that may affect Amaryl
what to avoid while using Amaryl


Generic Name: glimepiride (glih MEP ih ryd) Brand Names: Amaryl


What is the most important information I should know about glimepiride?

  • Take care not to let your blood sugar get too low, causing hypoglycemia. You may have hypoglycemia if you skip a meal, exercise too long, drink alcohol, or are under stress.
  • Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them. Always keep a source of sugar available in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. Severe hypoglycemia may cause loss of consciousness, seizures, or death. If you have severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, use an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.
  • If your blood sugar gets too high (hyperglycemia), you may feel very thirsty or hungry. You may also urinate more than usual. Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of hyperglycemia.
  • Glimepiride is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.
  • It is important to take glimepiride regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

What is glimepiride?

  • Glimepiride is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels. This medication helps your body respond better to insulin produced by your pancreas.
  • Glimepiride is used together with diet and exercise to treat type 2 (non-insulin dependent) diabetes. Other diabetes medicines are sometimes used in combination with glimepiride if needed.
  • Glimepiride may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my doctor before taking glimepiride?

  • Before taking glimepiride, tell your doctor if you have:

    • heart disease;
    • adrenal or pituitary gland problems;
    • or if you are under-nourished; or
    • have liver disease.
    • If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use glimepiride, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment.
    • FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby and should not be used by a woman who is pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
    • It is not known whether glimepiride passes into breast milk or if it could be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take glimepiride without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    How should I take glimepiride?

    • Take glimepiride exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger or smaller amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Your dose needs may change if you are ill, if you have a fever or infection, or if you have surgery or a medical emergency.
    • Do not change your dose of glimepiride without first talking to your doctor.
    • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
    • Glimepiride is usually taken once a day, with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
    • Take care not to let your blood sugar get too low, causing hypoglycemia. You may have hypoglycemia if you skip a meal, exercise too long, drink alcohol, or are under stress.
    • Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them. Always keep a source of sugar available in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. Severe hypoglycemia may cause loss of consciousness, seizures, or death. If you have severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, use an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.
    • To be sure this medication is helping your condition, you will need to check your blood sugar at home. Your blood will also need to be tested by your doctor on a regular basis. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
    • Glimepiride is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.
    • It is important to take glimepiride regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.
    • Store glimepiride at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
    • Symptoms of a glimepiride overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and coma.

    What should I avoid while taking glimepiride?

    • Avoid drinking alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with your diabetes treatment.
    • Do not use glimepiride if you are in a state of diabetic ketoacidosis. Call your doctor for treatment.

    What are the possible side effects of glimepiride?

    • Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
    • Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
    • signs of congestive heart failure (swelling or rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, chest pain);
    • restlessness, irritability, muscle cramps, nausea, headache, confusion, or seizure (convulsions);
    • skin rash, itching, redness, or irritation;
    • easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; or
    • nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or
    • eyes).
    • Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as:
    • dizziness or weakness;
    • headache, blurred vision;
    • mild nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain;
    • increased skin sensitivity to sunlight; or
    • dark urine.
    • Know the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and how to recognize them. Always keep a source of sugar available in case you have symptoms of low blood sugar. Sugar sources include orange juice, glucose gel, candy, or milk. Severe hypoglycemia may cause loss of consciousness, seizures, or death. If you have severe hypoglycemia and cannot eat or drink, give an injection of glucagon. Your doctor can give you a prescription for a glucagon emergency injection kit and tell you how to give the injection.
    • If your blood sugar gets too high (hyperglycemia), you may feel very thirsty or hungry. You may also urinate more than usual. Call your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of hyperglycemia.
    • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect glimepiride?

    • You may be more likely to have hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) if you are taking glimepiride with other drugs that raise blood sugar. Drugs that can raise blood sugar include:
    • isoniazid;
    • diuretics (water pills);
    • steroids (prednisone and others);
    • phenothiazines (Compazine and others);
    • thyroid medicine (Synthroid and others);
    • birth control pills and other hormones;
    • seizure medicines (Dilantin and others);
    • diet pills; and
    • medicines to treat asthma, colds or allergies.
    • You may be more likely to have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if you are taking glimepiride other drugs that lower blood sugar. Drugs that can lower blood sugar include:
    • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
    • aspirin or other salicylates (including Pepto-Bismol);
    • sulfa drugs (Bactrim and others);
    • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI);
    • beta-blockers (Tenormin and others);
    • probenecid (Benemid); or
    • a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin and others).
    • If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to take glimepiride, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.
    • There may be other drugs not listed that can affect glimepiride. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
  • Avandia

    Avandia

    This page contains drug information on Avandia.
    The information provided includes the following:
    what is Avandia
    the possible side effects of Avandia
    what happens if you miss a dose of Avandia
    what happens if you overdose with Avandia
    the most important information about Avandia
    how to use Avandia
    other drugs that may affect Avandia
    what to avoid while using Avandia


    Generic Name: rosiglitazone (oral) (row zi GLI ta zone)
    Brand Names: Avandia


    What is the most important information I should know about rosiglitazone?

    • Before taking rosiglitazone, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. While using this medication, call your doctor at once if you have any signs of liver problems. This includes sudden stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or dark urine.
    • Rosiglitazone is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these factors can affect your blood sugar levels.
    • Some women using rosiglitazone have started having menstrual periods, even after not having a period for a long time due to menopause or a medical condition. You may be able to get pregnant if your periods restart. Talk with your doctor about the need for birth control.

    What is rosiglitazone?

    • Rosiglitazone is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels. This medication helps your body respond better to insulin produced by your pancreas.
    • Rosiglitazone is for people with type 2 diabetes who do not use daily insulin injections.
    • Rosiglitazone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking rosiglitazone?

    • Before taking rosiglitazone, tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
    • Tell your doctor if you have:
    • heart failure or heart disease;
    • edema (water retention or swelling);
    • kidney disease; or
    • type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes.
    • You may not be able to take rosiglitazone, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
    • Some women using rosiglitazone have started having menstrual periods, even after not having a period for a long time due to menopause or a medical condition. You may be able to get pregnant if your periods restart. Talk with your doctor about the need for birth control.
    • Rosiglitazone is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known if it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.
    • It is not known whether rosiglitazone can pass into breast milk. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    How should I take rosiglitazone?

    • Rosiglitazone should be used exactly as your doctor has prescribed it for you. Do not use more of the medication than recommended. Do not take this medication for longer than your doctor has prescribed.
    • If you take this medication more than once daily, take it with your morning and evening meals.
    • Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication. Your blood sugar may not come under control until you have been using this medication for at least 2 weeks. It may take 2 or 3 months before you get the full benefits of treatment.
    • To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.
    • Rosiglitazone is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Your doctor may also recommend other medications such as Diabeta, Glucotrol, Micronase, Glucophage, or insulin if you need greater blood sugar control.
    • Take care not to let your blood sugar get too low, causing hypoglycemia. Know the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.
    • Store rosiglitazone at room temperature, protected from moisture, heat, and light.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
    • Symptoms of a rosiglitazone overdose are not known.

    What should I avoid while taking rosiglitazone?

    • Do not use insulin with rosiglitazone unless your doctor instructs you to.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with your diabetes treatment.

    What are the possible side effects of rosiglitazone?

    • Stop using rosiglitazone and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
    • Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
    • signs of congestive heart failure (swelling or rapid weight gain, shortness of breath, chest pain);
    • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or loss of appetite;
    • unusual tiredness;
    • jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
    • dark urine.
    • Watch for signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of non-dietetic hard candy or glucose tablets with you in case you have low blood sugar.
    • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue using rosiglitazone and talk with your doctor if you have any of these side effects:
    • easy bruising, pale skin; or
    • sore throat, nasal discharge, cough, cold symptoms.
    • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect rosiglitazone?

    • Some medications may interact with rosiglitazone. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:
    • gemfibrozil (Gemcor); or
    • rifampin (Rifater, Rimactane).
    • If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to take rosiglitazone, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring.
    • There may be other drugs not listed that can affect rosiglitazone. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.
    Diamocron MR
    Glicazide
    Glicazide

    Sulfonylurea antidiabetic agents (also known as sulfonylureas) are used to treat a certain type of diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) called type 2 diabetes. When you have type 2 diabetes, insulin is still being produced by your pancreas. Sometimes the amount of insulin you produce may not be enough or your body may not be using it properly and you may still need more. Sulfonylureas work by causing your pancreas to release more insulin into the blood stream. All of the cells in your body need insulin to help turn the food you eat into energy. This is done by using sugar (or glucose) in the blood as quick energy. Or the sugar may be stored in the form of fats, sugars, and proteins for use later, such as for energy between meals.
    Sometimes insulin that is being produced by the body is not able to help sugar get inside the body's cells. Sulfonylureas help insulin get into the cells where it can work properly to lower blood sugar. In this way, sulfonylureas will help lower blood sugar and help restore the way you use food to make energy.
    Many people with type 2 diabetes can control their blood sugar level with diet or diet and exercise alone. Following a diabetes diet plan and exercising will always be important with any type of diabetes. To work properly, the amount of sulfonylurea you use must be balanced against the amount and type of food you eat and the amount of exercise you do. If you change your diet, your exercise, or both, you will want to test your blood sugar level so that it does not drop too low (hypoglycemia) or rise too high (hyperglycemia). Your health care professional will teach you what to do if this happens.
    Sometimes patients with type 2 diabetes might need to change to treatment with insulin for a short period of time during pregnancy or for a serious medical condition, such as diabetic coma; ketoacidosis; severe injury, burn, or infection; or major surgery. In these conditions, insulin and blood sugar can change fast and blood sugar can be best controlled with insulin instead of a sulfonylurea.
    At some point, a sulfonylurea may stop working as well and your blood sugar level will go up. You will need to know if this happens and what to do. Instead of taking more of this medicine, your doctor may change you to another sulfonylurea. Or your doctor may have you inject small doses of insulin or take another oral antidiabetic medicine called metformin along with your sulfonylurea to help the insulin you make work better. If that does not bring down the amount of sugar in your blood, your doctor may have you stop taking the oral antidiabetic agents and begin receiving only insulin injections.
    Chlorpropamide may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

    Glucophage
    Glucophage

    Glucophage
    This page contains drug information on Glucophage.
    The information provided includes the following:
    what is Glucophage
    the possible side effects of Glucophage
    what happens if you miss a dose of Glucophage
    what happens if you overdose with Glucophage
    the most important information about Glucophage
    how to use Glucophage
    other drugs that may affect Glucophage
    what to avoid while using Glucophage


    Generic Name: metformin (met FORE min)
    Brand Names: Fortamet, Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Riomet

    What is the most important information I should know about metformin?

    • A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.
    • Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking metformin. Together, alcohol and metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
    • Metformin does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Nevertheless, hypoglycemia may occur in the treatment of diabetes, as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

    What is metformin?

    • Metformin is used to regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels. Metformin works in three ways: first, it reduces the amount of glucose produced by your liver; second, it reduces the amount of glucose absorbed from food through your stomach; and third, it makes the insulin that your body produces work better to reduce the amount of glucose already in your blood.
    • Metformin is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Metformin may be used alone or together with insulin or other diabetes medicines.
    • Metformin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking metformin?

    Do not take metformin without first talking to your doctor if you

    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • have congestive heart failure;
    • have acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis;
    • have had a heart attack or a stroke;
    • have a serious infection, illness, or injury;
    • need to have surgery;
    • need to have x-rays or other procedures using injectable contrast agents;
    • are dehydrated (have lost water from your body) due to diarrhea, vomiting, fever, heat stroke, decreased fluid intake, or any other cause;
    • drink alcohol; or
    • are 80 years of age or older and have not had your kidney function tested.

    You may not be able to take metformin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

    Contact your doctor if you develop a fever or an infection, require surgery, or if you experience a serious injury. Illness or injury may cause a loss of blood sugar control and insulin (or an adjustment of a current insulin dose) may be required for a period of time.

    Metformin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Generally, insulin is the drug of choice for controlling diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take metformin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

    Metformin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take metformin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    If you are over the age of 65 years, there may be an slight increase in the risk of developing lactic acidosis due to a natural decline in kidney function with advancing age. A lower dose or special monitoring may be necessary during your treatment.

    How should I take metformin?

    • Take metformin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain the instructions to you.
    • Take the tablets with a full glass of water.
    • Do not crush, chew, or break the Glucophage XR tablets. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
    • To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the metformin solution with a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
    • Take metformin with a meal to reduce nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach that may occur with metformin therapy. These symptoms may be more likely to occur during the first few weeks of therapy.
    • Occasionally, inactive ingredients in the metformin extended-release (Glucophage XR) tablets may pass through your body undissolved and appear in the stool as a soft mass. This is not harmful, and the medication has been absorbed by your body.
    • It is important to take metformin regularly to get the most benefit.
    • A decrease in vitamin B12 may also occur during metformin therapy. Your doctor may want to monitor your blood levels of vitamin B12 and you may need to take B12 supplements. A vitamin B12 deficiency may rarely cause anemia.
    • Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of blood sugar levels with blood or urine tests.
    • Store metformin tablets and oral solution at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
    • An overdose of metformin is likely to cause lactic acidosis. See the "What are the possible side effects of metformin?" section for symptoms of lactic acidosis.

    What should I avoid while taking metformin?

    • Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking metformin. Together, alcohol and metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
    • Follow diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of these things can affect blood sugar levels.
    • Tell your doctor or other health care provider that you are taking this medication if you need to have surgery or x-ray procedures that require injection of contrast agents. Treatment with metformin may need to be stopped for a short period of time.
    • Do not take any over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight-loss medications without first talking to your doctor.
    • Some conditions may increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis while taking metformin. Tell your doctor that you are taking metformin if you become ill; if you have a heart attack; have a stroke; develop congestive heart failure; experience diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or dehydration from any cause; decrease the amount of food or liquid in your normal diet, or develop other health conditions. You may need to stop treatment with metformin for a short amount of time until you are feeling better.

    What are the possible side effects of metformin?

    • Stop taking metformin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
    • A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.
    • Metformin does not usually cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Nevertheless, hypoglycemia may occur in the treatment of diabetes, as a result of skipped meals, excessive exercise, or alcohol consumption. Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take metformin and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea at the start of therapy;
    • abdominal bloating or increased gas production; or
    • decreased appetite or changes in taste (metallic taste in your mouth).
    • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect metformin?

    • Metformin can interact with many other medicines and many medications may affect your condition. Do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal products without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
    Glucotrol XL
    Glucotrol XL

    Glucotrol
    This page contains drug information on Glucotrol.
    The information provided includes the following:
    what is Glucotrol
    the possible side effects of Glucotrol
    what happens if you miss a dose of Glucotrol
    what happens if you overdose with Glucotrol
    the most important information about Glucotrol
    how to use Glucotrol
    other drugs that may affect Glucotrol
    what to avoid while using Glucotrol


    Generic Name: glipizide (GLIP ih zide)
    Brand Names: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL

    What is the most important information I should know about glipizide?

    • Treatment with glipizide may increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to treatment of diabetes with diet alone or diet plus insulin. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of treatment with glipizide.
    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Follow diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of them can affect blood sugar levels.
    • Do not change your dose of glipizide without first talking to your doctor.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.
    • The Glucotrol XL extended release tablets (glipizide extended release tablets) should be swallowed whole. Do not chew, divide, or crush the tablets.

    What is glipizide?

    • Glipizide is in a class of drugs called sulfonylureas. It is used to help control blood sugar levels.
    • Glipizide is used to treat type 2 diabetes along with diet, exercise, and insulin therapy, if necessary.
    • Glipizide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking glipizide?

    Before taking glipizide, tell your doctor if you

    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • have thyroid disease;
    • have type 1 diabetes;
    • have a serious infection, illness, or injury; or
    • need surgery.

    You may not be able to take glipizide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

    Patients 65 years of age and older may have a stronger reaction to glipizide and may require a reduced dose.

    Glipizide is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether glipizide will be harmful to an unborn baby. Insulin is usually the drug of choice to control diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take glipizide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

    It is not known whether glipizide passes into breast milk. Do not take glipizide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    How should I take glipizide?

    • Take glipizide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
    • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
    • Glipizide is usually taken before breakfast if it is taken once a day, or before meals if it is taken multiple times each day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
    • The Glucotrol XL extended release tablets (glipizide extended release tablets) should be swallowed whole. Do not chew, divide, or crush the tablets.
    • If you are taking Glucotrol XL extended release tablets (glipizide extended release tablets), do not be concerned if something that looks like a tablet occasionally appears in the stool. The medication is contained in a non-absorbable shell that has been specially designed to slowly release the drug so the body can absorb it. When this process is completed, the empty tablet is eliminated from the body.
    • It is important to take glipizide regularly to get the most benefit.
    • Do not change your dose of glipizide without first talking to your doctor.
    • Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of blood sugar levels with blood or urine tests.
    • Store glipizide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
    • Symptoms of a glipizide overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma.

    What should I avoid while taking glipizide?

    • Follow diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of these things can effect blood sugar levels.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with your diabetes treatment.
    • Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before you undergo any surgery.
    • Do not take any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight loss medications without first talking to your doctor.

    What are the possible side effects of glipizide?

    • Stop taking glipizide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
    • Other, less serious side effects from glipizide result mostly from blood sugar levels that are either too high or too low. You should be familiar with the symptoms of both high and low blood sugar levels and know how to treat both conditions. Also, be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency situation.
    • Low blood sugar may occur when too much glipizide is taken; when meals are missed or delayed; if you exercise more than usual; during illness, especially with vomiting or diarrhea; if you take other medications; after drinking alcohol; and in other situations.

    Hypoglycemia or Low blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • shaking;
    • headache;
    • cold sweats;
    • pale, cool skin;
    • anxiety; and
    • difficulty concentrating.
    • Keep hard, sugary candy; chocolate; fruit juice; or glucose tablets on hand to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

    Increased blood sugar may occur when not enough glipizide is taken; if you eat significantly more food than usual; if you exercise less than usual; if you take other medications; during fever or other illness; and in other situations.

    Hyperglycemia or High blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • increased thirst,
    • increased hunger, and
    • increased urination.

    There may be an increased risk of death due to cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) complications with the use of glipizide when compared to the treatment of diabetes with diet or diet plus insulin. The long-term use of glipizide should be discussed with your doctor.

    Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect glipizide?

    Many other medicines may increase or decrease the effects of glipizide or affect your condition. Before taking glipizide, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

    • aspirin or another salicylate such as magnesium/ choline salicylate (Trilisate), salsalate (Disalcid, others), choline salicylate (Arthropan), magnesium salicylate (Magan), or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol);
    • a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, others), ketoprofen (Orudis, Orudis KT, Oruvail), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), etodolac (Lodine), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, Aleve), and others;
    • a sulfa-based drug such as sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra), sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin), or sulfasalazine (Azulfidine);
    • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil);
    • a beta-blocker such as propranolol (Inderal), atenolol (Tenormin), acebutolol (Sectral), metoprolol (Lopressor), and others;
    • a diuretic (water pill) such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, Hydrodiuril), chlorothiazide (Diuril), and others;
    • a steroid medicine such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others), methylprednisolone (Medrol, others), prednisolone (Prelone, Pediapred, others), and others;
    • a phenothiazine such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin, Permitil), prochlorperazine (Compazine), promethazine (Phenergan), and others;
    • phenytoin (Dilantin); v
    • isoniazid (Nydrazid); or
    • prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy, or weight loss medications.

    You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

    Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with glipizide or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

    Glucovance
    Glucovance

    Glucovance
    This page contains drug information on Glucovance.
    The information provided includes the following:
    what is Glucovance
    the possible side effects of Glucovance
    what happens if you miss a dose of Glucovance
    what happens if you overdose with Glucovance
    the most important information about Glucovance
    how to use Glucovance
    other drugs that may affect Glucovance
    what to avoid while using Glucovance


    Generic Name: glyburide and metformin (GLYE byoor ide and met FORE min)
    Brand Names: Glucovance


    What is the most important information I should know about glyburide and metformin?

    • A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking glyburide and metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with glyburide and metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.
    • Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking glyburide and metformin. Together, alcohol and glyburide and metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard, non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

    What is glyburide and metformin?

    • Glyburide is in a class of drugs called sulfonylureas. It is used to help control blood sugar levels by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin into the blood.
    • Metformin is also used to regulate blood sugar levels. Metformin works in three ways: first, it reduces the amount of glucose (sugar) produced by your liver; second, it reduces the amount of glucose absorbed from food through your stomach; and third, it makes the insulin that your body produces work better to reduce the amount of glucose already in your blood.
    • Glyburide and metformin is used with diet and exercise to treat type 2 diabetes.
    • Glyburide and metformin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking glyburide and metformin?

    Do not take glyburide and metformin without first talking to your doctor if you

    • are allergic to either glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase, Glynase) or metformin (Glucophage);
    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • have congestive heart failure;
    • have acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis;
    • have had a heart attack or a stroke;
    • have a serious infection, illness, or injury;
    • need to have surgery;
    • need to have x-rays or other procedures using injectable contrast agents;
    • are dehydrated due to diarrhea, vomiting, fever, heat stroke, decreased fluid intake, or any other cause;
    • drink alcohol; or
    • are 80 years of age or older and have not had your kidney function tested.

    You may not be able to take glyburide and metformin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

    Glyburide and metformin is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Generally, insulin is the drug of choice for controlling diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take glyburide and metformin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

    Glyburide and metformin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take glyburide and metformin without first talking to your doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

    If you are over the age of 65 years, there may be an increase in the risk of developing lactic acidosis due to a natural decline in kidney function with advancing age. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose or special monitoring during your treatment.

    How should I take glyburide and metformin?

    • Take glyburide and metformin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
    • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
    • Take glyburide and metformin with a meal to reduce nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach that may occur with glyburide and metformin therapy. These symptoms may be more likely to occur during the first few weeks of therapy.
    • A decrease in vitamin B12 may also occur during therapy with glyburide and metformin. Your doctor may want to monitor your blood levels of vitamin B12 and you may need to take B12 supplements. A vitamin B12 deficiency may rarely cause anemia.
    • Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these things can effect your blood sugar levels.
    • It is important to take metformin regularly to get the most benefit.
    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard, non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Your doctor may want to monitor your blood sugar control and other factors with regularly scheduled blood tests.
    • Store glyburide and metformin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
    • Symptoms of a glyburide and metformin overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma. An overdose of glyburide and metformin may also cause lactic acidosis. See the "What are the possible side effects of glyburide and metformin?" section for symptoms of lactic acidosis.

    What should I avoid while taking glyburide and metformin?

    • Avoid excessive alcohol intake while taking glyburide and metformin. Together, alcohol and glyburide and metformin may increase the risk of lactic acidosis and hypoglycemia.
    • Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these things can effect your blood sugar levels.
    • Tell your doctor or other health care provider that you are taking this medication if you need to have surgery or x-ray procedures that require injection of contrast agents. Treatment with glyburide and metformin may need to be stopped for a short period of time.
    • Some conditions may increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis while taking glyburide and metformin. Tell your doctor that you are taking glyburide and metformin if you become ill; if you have a heart attack; have a stroke; develop congestive heart failure; experience diarrhea, vomiting, fever, or dehydration from any cause; decrease the amount of food or liquid in your normal diet, or develop other health conditions. You may need to stop treatment with glyburide and metformin for a short amount of time until you are feeling better.
    • Do not take any over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight loss medications without first talking to your doctor.

    What are the possible side effects of glyburide and metformin?

    • Stop taking glyburide and metformin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to glyburide and metformin.
    • A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking glyburide and metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with glyburide and metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.
    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include hunger, headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard, non-dietetic candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take glyburide and metformin and talk to your doctor if you experience
    • nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea at the start of therapy; or
    • headache.
    • Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect glyburide and metformin?

    • Since many medications can interact with glyburide and metformin or affect your blood sugar control, do not take any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products, while taking glyburide and metformin without first talking to your doctor.
    Glyburide
    Glyburide

    Glyburide Drug information
    Generic Name: glyburide (GLYE byoor ide)
    Brand Names: DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase


    What is the most important information I should know about glyburide?

    • Treatment with glyburide may increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to treatment of diabetes with diet alone or diet plus insulin. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of treatment with glyburide.
    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Follow diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of them can affect blood sugar levels.
    • Do not change your dose of glyburide without first talking to your doctor.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.

    What is glyburide?

    • Glyburide is in a class of drugs called sulfonylureas. It is used to help control blood sugar levels.
    • Glyburide is used to treat type 2 diabetes along with diet, exercise, and insulin therapy, if necessary.
    • Glyburide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking glyburide?

    Before taking glyburide, tell your doctor if you

    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • have thyroid disease;
    • have type 1 diabetes;
    • have a serious infection, illness, or injury; or
    • need surgery.

    You may not be able to take glyburide, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

    Patients 65 years of age and older may have a stronger reaction to glyburide and may require a reduced dose.

    Glyburide is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether glyburide will be harmful to an unborn baby. Insulin is usually the drug of choice for controlling diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take glyburide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

    It is not known whether glyburide passes into breast milk. Do not take glyburide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    How should I take glyburide?

    • Take glyburide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
    • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
    • Glyburide is usually taken before breakfast or the first main meal if it is taken once a day, or before meals if it is taken multiple times each day. Follow your doctor's instructions.
    • It is important to take glyburide regularly to get the most benefit.
    • Do not change your dose of glyburide without first talking to your doctor.
    • Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of blood sugar levels with blood or urine tests.
    • Store glyburide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
    • Symptoms of a glyburide overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma.

    What should I avoid while taking glyburide?

    • Follow diet, medication, and exercise routines closely. Changing any of these things can effect blood sugar levels.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.
    • Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before you undergo any surgery.
    • Do not take any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight loss medications without first talking to your doctor.

    What are the possible side effects of glyburide?

    • Stop taking glyburide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
    • Other, less serious side effects from glyburide result mostly from blood sugar levels that are either too high or too low. You should be familiar with the symptoms of both high and low blood sugar levels and know how to treat both conditions. Also, be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency situation.
    • Low blood sugar may occur when too much glyburide is taken; when meals are missed or delayed; if you exercise more than usual; during illness, especially with vomiting or diarrhea; if you take other medications; after drinking alcohol; and in other situations.

    Hypoglycemia or Low blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • shaking;
    • headache;
    • cold sweats;
    • pale, cool skin;
    • anxiety; and
    • difficulty concentrating.

    Keep hard, sugary candy; chocolate; fruit juice; or glucose tablets on hand to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

    Increased blood sugar may occur when not enough glyburide is taken; if you eat significantly more food than usual; if you exercise less than usual; if you take other medications; during fever or other illness; and in other situations.

    Hyperglycemia or High blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • increased thirst,
    • increased hunger, and
    • increased urination.

    There may be an increased risk of death due to cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) complications with the use of glyburide when compared to the treatment of diabetes with diet or diet plus insulin. The long-term use of glyburide should be discussed with your doctor.

    Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect glyburide?

    Many other medicines may increase or decrease the effects of glyburide or affect your condition. Before taking glyburide, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

    • aspirin or another salicylate such as magnesium/ choline salicylate (Trilisate), salsalate (Disalcid, others), choline salicylate (Arthropan), magnesium salicylate (Magan), or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol);
    • a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin, others), ketoprofen (Orudis, Orudis KT, Oruvail), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), etodolac (Lodine), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin (Daypro), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, Aleve), and others;
    • a sulfa-based drug such as sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra), sulfisoxazole (Gantrisin), or sulfasalazine (Azulfidine);
    • a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil);
    • a beta-blocker such as propranolol (Inderal), atenolol (Tenormin), acebutolol (Sectral), metoprolol (Lopressor), and others;
    • a diuretic (water pill) such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, Hydrodiuril), chlorothiazide (Diuril), and others;
    • a steroid medicine such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others), methylprednisolone (Medrol, others), prednisolone (Prelone, Pediapred, others), and others;
    • a phenothiazine such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin, Permitil), prochlorperazine (Compazine), promethazine (Phenergan), and others;
    • phenytoin (Dilantin);
    • isoniazid (Nydrazid); or
    • prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal cough, cold, allergy, or weight loss medications.

    You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

    Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with glyburide or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

    Starlix
    Starlix

    Starlix
    This page contains drug information on Starlix.
    The information provided includes the following:
    what is Starlix
    the possible side effects of Starlix
    what happens if you miss a dose of Starlix
    what happens if you overdose with Starlix
    the most important information about Starlix
    how to use Starlix
    other drugs that may affect Starlix
    what to avoid while using Starlix


    Generic Name: nateglinide (oral) (nah TEH glih nide)
    Brand Names: Starlix


    What is the most important information I should know about nateglinide?

    • Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremor, and nausea. Carry a piece of hard candy or glucose tablets with you to treat episodes of low blood sugar.
    • Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these routines can affect blood sugar levels.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.

    What is nateglinide?

    • Nateglinide stimulates the pancreas to release insulin. The body needs insulin to break down sugars in food.
    • Nateglinide is used to treat diabetes, along with diet and exercise. Nateglinide may also be used in combination with other diabetes medicines.
    • Nateglinide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

    What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nateglinide?

    Nateglinide should not be used by patients whose high blood sugar is not adequately controlled with glyburide (Diabeta, Glynase, Micronase) or other similar medicines that increase the release of insulin in the body. Ask your doctor if you are taking this type of medication and if nateglinide is the right choice for you.

    Before taking nateglinide, tell your doctor if you

    • have liver disease;
    • have Type 1 diabetes mellitus (insulin-dependent diabetes);
    • have diabetic ketoacidosis;
    • have a serious infection, illness, or injury; or
    • need to have surgery.

    You may not be able to take nateglinide, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

    Nateglinide is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether nateglinide will be harmful to an unborn baby. Insulin is often the drug chosen for controlling diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take nateglinide without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

    It is not known whether nateglinide passes into breast milk. Do not take nateglinide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

    How should I take nateglinide?

    • Take nateglinide exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
    • Take each dose with a full glass of water.
    • Take nateglinide one to thirty minutes before meals.
    • If you plan to skip a meal, skip the nateglinide dose for that meal, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If you add a meal or significantly more food to your diet than is usual, ask your doctor if you may need an additional dose of nateglinide.
    • It is important to take nateglinide regularly to get the most benefit.
    • Your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring of blood sugar levels with blood or urine tests and/ or additional types of monitoring during treatment with nateglinide.
    • Store nateglinide at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

    What happens if I miss a dose?

    • If you forget to take a dose until after eating, skip that dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose, before a meal.

    What happens if I overdose?

    • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
    • Symptoms of a nateglinide overdose include hunger, nausea, anxiety, cold sweats, weakness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and coma.

    What should I avoid while taking nateglinide?

    • Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely. Changing any of these routines can affect blood sugar levels.
    • Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with diabetes treatment.
    • Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before you undergo any surgery.
    • Do not take any over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, pain, or weight-loss medications without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

    What are the possible side effects of nateglinide?

    Stop taking nateglinide and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

    Other, less serious side effects from nateglinide result mostly from blood sugar levels that are either too high or too low. You should be familiar with the symptoms of both high and low blood sugar levels and know how to treat both conditions. Also, be sure your family and close friends know how to help you in an emergency situation.

    Low blood sugar may occur when too much nateglinide is taken; when meals are missed or delayed; if you exercise more than usual; during illness, especially with vomiting or diarrhea; if you take other medications; after drinking alcohol; and in other situations.

    Hypoglycemia or Low blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • shaking;
    • headache;
    • cold sweats;
    • pale, cool skin;
    • drowsiness;
    • extreme hunger;
    • confusion;
    • diarrhea and gas;
    • nervousness or anxiety; and
    • difficulty concentrating.

    Keep hard, sugary candy (non-dietetic); chocolate; fruit juice; or glucose tablets on hand to treat episodes of low blood sugar.

    Increased blood sugar may occur when not enough nateglinide is taken, if you eat significantly more food then usual, if you exercise less than usual, if you take other medications, during fever or other illness, and in other situations.

    Hyperglycemia or High blood sugar has the following symptoms:

    • increased thirst,
    • increased hunger, and
    • increased urination.

    Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

    What other drugs will affect nateglinide?

    Before taking nateglinide, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

    • a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam), etodolac (Lodine), fenoprofen (Nalfon), flurbiprofen (Ansaid), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, others), indomethacin (Indocin), ketoprofen (Orudis KT, Orudis, Oruvail), nabumetone (Relafen), naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), piroxicam (Feldene), sulindac (Clinoril), tolmetin (Tolectin), and others;
    • aspirin (Bayer Aspirin, Ecotrin, Easprin, others) or another salicylate such as salsalate (Disalcid, Salflex, Salsitab, others), choline magnesium trisalicylate (Tricosal, Trilisate), and others;
    • a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate);
    • a beta-blocker such as atenolol (Tenormin), metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), or propranolol (Inderal);
    • a steroid medication such as prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone, others), methylprednisolone (Medrol), dexamethasone (Decadron), prednisolone (Prelone, others), and others;
    • a diuretic (water pill) such as hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Esidrix, Microzide, Oretic, others), chlorothiazide (Diuril), chlorthalidone (Thalitone, Hygroton), metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn), indapamide (Lozol), and others;
    • a thyroid supplement such as Levoxyl, Synthroid, Levothroid, Levotabs, Thyrolar, Cytomel, and others; or
    • a respiratory medication such as albuterol (Ventolin, Proventil, others), bitolterol (Tornalate), metaproterenol (Alupent, Metaprel), pirbuterol (Maxair), terbutaline (Brethaire, Brethine, Bricanyl), and others.

    The medicines listed above may interact with nateglinide or affect blood sugar control. You may require dosage adjustments or special monitoring during treatment.

    Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with nateglinide or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.