Glucotrol - Mechanism of Action and Side Effects

Glucotrol is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes by helping the pancreas produce more insulin and the body use insulin more effectively. It belongs to the sulfonylurea class of drugs.

Glucotrol FAQ

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What are the side effects of Glucotrol?

Glucotrol is available in 5 and 10 mg strength tablets. The usual starting dose is 5 mg about 30 min before breakfast. Serious side effects of Glucotrol include hypoglycemia, jaundice, liver damage, fever, bleeding or bruising, skin changes, SIADH, and porphyria. What Drugs, Substances, or Supplements Interact with Glucotrol?

What is Glucotrol (glipizide)?

What Is Glucotrol? Glucotrol (glipizide) is blood glucose lowering drug of the sulfonylurea class used to help maintain glucose control in type 2 diabetics, in conjunction with an appropriate diet and exercise program. Glucotrol is available as a generic named glipizide.

What is Glucotrol used for?

Glucotrol is an oral diabetes medicine that helps control blood sugar levels by helping your pancreas produce insulin. Glucotrol is used together with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Glucotrol is not for treating type 1 diabetes.

What is Glucotrol XL?

Glucotrol XL contains an extended-release form of the active drug glipizide. Glucotrol XL is FDA-approved for use with a balanced diet and exercise to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. Note: Glucotrol XL is not approved to treat type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of diabetes.

When should Glucotrol be given?

Short-term administration of GLUCOTROL may be sufficient during periods of transient loss of control in patients usually controlled well on diet. In general, GLUCOTROL should be given approximately 30 minutes before a meal to achieve the greatest reduction in postprandial hyperglycemia. The recommended starting dose is 5 mg, given before breakfast.

Can Glucotrol cause low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar may happen with Glucotrol. Very low blood sugar can lead to seizures, passing out, long lasting brain damage, and sometimes death. Talk with the doctor. If you are 65 or older, use Glucotrol with care. You could have more side effects. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

How should I take Glucotrol?

Use Glucotrol as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely. Take 30 minutes before meals. Take Glucotrol 30 minutes before the first meal of the day, if taking once a day. Be sure you know what to do if you do not eat as much as normal or if you skip a meal.