Glucotrol (Glipizide)

Do’s

• Glucotrol is typically taken by mouth, usually once daily, 30 minutes before breakfast or the first meal of the day. However, some patients, especially those taking higher doses, may be directed to take this drug twice a day. 
• The dosage of this medication is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding the timing and frequency of dosing.
• To minimize the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may advise you to start with a low dose and gradually increase the dose as directed. 
• If you are already taking another diabetes drug, such as chlorpropamide, follow your healthcare provider's directions carefully for stopping the old drug and starting Glucotrol.
• Colesevelam can decrease the absorption of glipizide. If you are taking colesevelam, take Glucotrol at least 4 hours before taking colesevelam.
• Consistency in medication use is essential to derive the most benefit. Take Glucotrol regularly at the same time(s) each day to help you remember and to maximize its effectiveness.
• If your condition does not improve or worsens (e.g., your blood sugar is too high or too low), inform your healthcare provider promptly.

• Low blood sugar levels, which can manifest as tremors, anxiety, sweating, confusion, and rapid heartbeat
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Hemolytic anemia, characterized by unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness, headache, trouble breathing, dark urine, and yellowing of the skin or eyes

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Glucotrol, seek medical advice promptly.

Before taking any drug, including Glucotrol, consult a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on whether the medication is safe, appropriate, and effective for you.

For elderly patients, debilitated or malnourished patients, and those with impaired renal or hepatic function, the initial and maintenance dosing should be conservative to avoid hypoglycemic reactions.

Dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

The metabolism and excretion of Glucotrol may be slowed in patients with impaired renal and/or hepatic function, which can affect its effects and potential risks.

When transferring patients from insulin to Glucotrol, specific guidelines should be considered, and the patient should be informed of the potential risks and advantages of Glucotrol and alternative modes of therapy.

Glipizide has a warning for a higher risk of death related to heart problems based on a study of a similar blood sugar medication. If you have heart problems or are concerned about them, discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Before taking Glucotrol, inform your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver disease, chronic diarrhea or a blockage in your intestines, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD), a disorder of your pituitary or adrenal glands, a history of heart disease, or if you are malnourished.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions for Glucotrol. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.