| Glimepiride is used with diet and exercise to treat noninsulin-dependent (Type II) diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Insulin or metformin (Glucophage) may also be used in combination with glimepiride, if necessary.
Glimepiride may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Treatment with glimepiride 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 glimepiride.
Special precautions
Before taking glimepiride, tell your doctor if you
have kidney disease;
- have liver disease;
- have thyroid disease;
- have Type 1 diabetes mellitus (insulin-dependent diabetes);
- have a serious infection, illness, or injury; or
- Need surgery.
* You may not be able to take glimepiride, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
* Glimepiride is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether glimepiride will be harmful to an unborn baby. Insulin is usually the drug of choice to control diabetes during pregnancy. Do not take glimepiride without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
* It is not known whether glimepiride passes into breast milk. Do not take glimepiride without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
* 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 your blood sugar levels.
* Do not change your dose of glimepiride without first talking to your doctor.
* Avoid alcohol. It lowers blood sugar and may interfere with your diabetes treatment.
Side effects
o shaking;
o headache;
o cold sweats;
o pale, cool skin;
o anxiety; and
o difficulty concentrating.
o increased thirst,
o increased hunger, and
o increased urination.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Don’t let anyone else take your medicines.
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