Glipizide is a medication used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, especially when diet and exercise alone aren't enough. It works by stimulating the pancreas to release more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar after meals. You typically take it in tablet form, starting with a dose of 5 mg before breakfast, and the maximum daily dose is 40 mg, though doses above 15 mg are usually divided throughout the day. It's important to know that glipizide should not be used if you have type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Additionally, if you're transitioning from insulin therapy, your insulin dose may need to be reduced significantly before starting glipizide.
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Uses
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
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Dosage
Start with 5 mg before breakfast.
Elderly or liver disease patients may start with 2.5 mg.
Adjust doses by 2.5 to 5 mg based on blood glucose response.
Take glipizide about 30 minutes before meals for best results.
Maximum daily dose is 40 mg, with doses above 15 mg usually divided.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
nauseadiarrheaconstipationgastralgiahypoglycemiaDizzinessdrowsinessand headache may occurSkin reactions may require discontinuation of the drugHematologic issues like leukopenia and thrombocytopenia have been reported
Serious
allergic skin reactionscholestatic jaundice
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to diet alone.
- Monitor for hypoglycemia when switching from insulin.
- Use caution in elderly, malnourished, or patients with liver/kidney issues.
- Discontinue if cholestatic jaundice occurs.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
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Drug interactions
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agentsmay increase hypoglycemia riskCaution
- Azolesmay increase hypoglycemia riskCaution
- Thiazidesmay cause loss of blood sugar controlCaution
- Corticosteroidsmay cause loss of blood sugar controlCaution
- Miconazolemay lead to severe hypoglycemia.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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