GLUCOTROL - Glipizide

Glucotrol Used For

Glucotrol – Glipizide is in a class of drugs called sulfonylureas that help in controlling blood sugar levels. It is prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes along with diet, exercise and if necessary, insulin therapy.

Directions for Glucotrol Glipizide

Glucotrol should normally be taken before breakfast if prescribed once a day or before meals if taken multiple times a day. The recommended dose for treating type 2 diabetes in adults is to start at 5 mg once a day with titration as needed. Dose should not exceed 40 mg a day. All doses of 15 mg or more are usually divided into more than one dose. Elderly people may be started at lower dose of 2.5 mg a day. Children rarely have type 2 diabetes, but if needed, the dosage should be determined by the consulting doctor.

How Glucotrol Glipizide works

Glucotrol increases the risk of death due to cardiovascular disease as compared to treatment of diabetes with diet or diet and insulin. At the same time, it may cause hypoglycemia with symptoms like headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, fast heartbeat, sweating, tremors, and nausea. It is advisable to always carry a piece of hard candy or glucose tablets to avoid succumbing to low blood sugar. Also avoid unnecessary changes in diet, medication and exercise routines as a change in any of these would affect blood sugar levels. Alcohol can also lower blood sugar level and interfere with treatment of diabetes.

Side effects of Glucotrol medication

Family and friends of patients being treated with Glucotrol should make themselves aware with all symptoms and treatment of low or high blood sugar levels since these are the most common side effects of this medication. Low blood sugar especially occurs due to an overdose of Glucotrol or missed meals or over-exercising. It may also happen during illness such as vomiting or diarrhea or when taking other medications or alcohol. Following are the symptoms of hypoglycemia: shaking, headache, cold sweats, pale, cool skin, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Increased blood sugar on the other hand can happen when Glucotrol dose is missed. It may also be a result of over eating or under-exercising, other medications as well as fever or illness. Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar has the following symptoms: increased thirst, increased hunger, and increased urination.

Other Glucotrol Information