glimepiride

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Amaryl

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Amaryl

USES: Glimepiride is used along with diet to treat diabetes. It can be used with insulin or metformin in certain cases.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take this by mouth exactly as prescribed, usually once a day with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. Your dose may be adjusted initially every 1-2 weeks to determine the most effective dose for you. Follow dosing instructions closely and keep all doctors appointments. It is important that you regularly test your urine or blood for sugar as discussed with your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach pain, gas, bloating or diarrhea are most common but should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Also, skin rash/itching, dizziness and nausea may occur. Sun sensitivity/rash occurs rarely. If any of these effects continue or become severe, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: symptoms of high blood sugar (e.g., thirst, frequent urination), symptoms of low blood sugar (e.g., increased heart rate, nervousness, sweating, hunger, numbness/tingling of the hands or feet). Promptly report any of these serious side effects: persistent sore throat or fever, unusual bruises/bleeding, headache, shortness of breath, yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you have been hospitalized for diabetes or have any of the following medical problems: kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, any allergies. During times of stress such as fever, infection, injury or surgery, it may be more difficult to control your blood sugar. Consult your doctor or pharmacist as additional medication may be required. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Other similar drugs are excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription medication you may take particularly:

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include lightheadedness, sweating, rapid pulse, tremor, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

NOTES: This medication is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. 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. Lab tests will be done periodically while taking this to monitor its effects and prevent side effects. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease and circulation problems.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the 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 this at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.