Indications
- Glimepiride is used to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.
- It is part of a treatment plan that includes a proper diet and exercise program.
- The medication may be used alone or in combination with other diabetes medications.
- Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent complications such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, limb loss, and sexual function issues.
- Proper diabetes control can also reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Glimepiride belongs to the class of drugs called sulfonylureas.
- It works by triggering the release of the body’s natural insulin to lower blood sugar levels.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Patient Information Leaflet before starting glimepiride and each refill.
- Take the medication by mouth with breakfast or the first main meal, usually once daily.
- Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
- Use the medication regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions, starting with a low dose to reduce side effects.
- If switching from another diabetes drug, follow your doctor’s directions.
- Colesevelam can affect glimepiride absorption; take them at least 4 hours apart.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens (high or low blood sugar).
Side effects
- Possible side effects may include nausea and upset stomach; inform your doctor if they persist.
- This medication is prescribed considering the greater benefit over the risk of side effects.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects like yellowing eyes/skin, abdominal pain, dark urine, unusual tiredness, signs of infection, mental/mood changes, sudden weight gain, or seizures.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can occur; symptoms include sweating, shaking, fast heartbeat, hunger, blurred vision, dizziness, or tingling hands/feet. Have glucose tablets or gel and follow recommended actions if needed.
- If you miss a meal, check with your doctor or pharmacist to know what to do to prevent low blood sugar.
- Report symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), such as increased thirst/urination, to your doctor promptly. Adjustments to medication, exercise, or diet may be needed.
- Rare but serious allergic reactions may occur.
- Seek medical assistance immediately if you experience symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies to glimepiride or inactive ingredients in the product.
- Share your medical history, especially liver or kidney disease, thyroid disease, hormonal conditions, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Be cautious about activities requiring alertness or clear vision, as glimepiride may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness.
- Limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar.
- Notify your doctor if your body is stressed due to fever, infection, injury, or surgery, as it may affect blood sugar control.
- Use sun protection measures, as glimepiride may increase sensitivity to the sun.
- Inform healthcare providers about all medications, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products, before surgery or dental procedures.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the drug’s side effects, particularly low blood sugar.
- During pregnancy, use glimepiride only if necessary. Discuss blood sugar management plans with your doctor. If used during pregnancy, consider switching to insulin before the expected delivery date due to the risk of low blood sugar in the newborn.
- It’s unknown if glimepiride passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.