Prescription Required
Description
Glucotrol XL (glipizide) is an oral tablet made up of a sulfonylureas drug called glipizide. We carry the generic alternative to this medication in 5mg and 10mg! You can also purchase the regular, immediate-release Glucotrol XL here at MyDrugCenter.
Glucotrol XL (glipizide) is prescribed in combination with a proper diet and exercise plan to help improve blood sugar levels in those with Diabetes type 2. This medication is not a treatment for Diabetes type 1. Having high blood sugar can lead to conditions such as heart disease, heart attack, stroke, nerve damage, eye damage, and skin problems. By controlling blood sugar levels, not only are lowering the risk for these health conditions, but also lowering the symptoms of high blood sugar such as intense thirst or hunger, blurry vision, frequently urinating, and numb/tingly feet.
Glucotrol XL (glipizide) is effective in controlling blood sugar levels because it teams up with your pancreas to help produce more insulin. Insulin is one of many hormones in our body that help us turn food into energy and to help store it for later use. It does this by taking the sugar from our blood stream and placing it into our body’s cells to make fat, protein and sugar for energy when we do not have it.
Directions
Always follow directions given to you by your doctor. Most prescription labels have the directions written on them for your convenience.
Take Glucotrol XL with your first meal of the morning.
Ensure you are keeping up with blood tests during the duration of treatment.
Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, heat and light.
Cautions
If you have a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), you should not take Glucotrol XL. Medications containing glipizide (and other sulfonylureas) are contradicted when used as a treatment for patients with DKA.
If you have renal or liver disease, you may need a dose adjustment or alternate medication. This medication is metabolized in the liver and those with impaired liver and/or renal function may be exposed to higher levels of the drug and may induce severe hypoglycemia.
If you have G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency), you may also need a dose adjustment or alternate medication. Medications like glipizide (sulfonylureas) may cause hemolytic anemia (a condition where red blood cells are abnormally broken down and can lead to serious complications) in patients who suffer from G6PD.
You may also need to consider a different medication or need a dose adjustment when taking Glucotrol XL if you are a patient with kidney disease, chronic diarrhea, and blockage in the intestines, a disorder of your pituitary or adrenal gland, a history of heart disease or if you are malnourished.
If you are a pregnant female with diabetes type 2 and need to take Glucotrol XL; follow directions from your doctor very carefully as it is important to control blood sugar levels during pregnancy. You will likely need a dose adjustment every trimester of pregnancy. During the last 2 weeks of pregnancy, you will need to discontinue use until after you have given birth.
Consult your doctor if you are a breast feeding women needing to take Glucotrol XL. It may not be safe for you to breast feed while using this medication.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Glucotrol XL may include:
- Dizziness.
- Diarrhea.
- Feeling nervous and excitable.
- Gas.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Glucotrol XL may include:
- Change in eyesight.
- Slurred speech.
- Tingling.
- Feeling very tired or weak.
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Signs to watch for:
Allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): headache, hunger, sweating, irritability, dizziness, nausea, fast heart rate, and feeling anxious or shaky.
FAQs
If I also take colesevelam, how long in between should I wait to take Glucotrol XL?
If you take colesevelam, ensure it is taken at least 4 hours before or after taking Glipizide. This is because colesevelam may reduce the absorption of Glucotrol XL.
Can I drink alcohol while on this medication?
Avoid drinking alcohol while being treated with Glucotrol/glipizide. Alcohol may increase the risk of side effects.
Is this medication safe for kids?
The safety and effectiveness of Glucotrol XL has not been established in pediatric patients.
How should I store this medication?
Avoid keeping this medication in the bathroom; keep in a dry area at room temperature, protected from children and pets.
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