Product Details: Glucotrol XL (Glipizide XL)

Generic Options - Manufacturer: Generic

What are Generics? A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, how it is taken, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name and works the same way in the body in the same amount of time.

The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is the generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (e.g. different shape or color), as trademark laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.

Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to invent a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name drug and sell it at substantial discounts.

Description

This is an anti-diabetic medicine (sulfonylurea-type) used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar. It is used in patients with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). It works by stimulating the release of your body's natural insulin. Effectively controlling blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, blindness, and circulation problems, as well as sexual function problems (impotence).

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. SWALLOW WHOLE. Do not break, crush, or chew before swallowing. This medicine is usually taken once daily with breakfast, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Take this medicine regularly to receive the most benefit from it. Taking the medicine at the same time each day will help you to remember. MONITOR BLOOD GLUCOSE levels on a regular basis. STORE THIS MEDICINE in a tightly-closed container at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C), away from heat, moisture, and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

IT IS IMPORTANT that you keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., liver and kidney function tests, fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, complete blood counts) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Regularly check your blood or urine for sugar as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. YOU MAY EXPERIENCE BLURRED VISION, dizziness, or drowsiness due to extremely low or high blood sugar levels. USE CAUTION ENGAGING IN ACTIVITIES REQUIRING ALERTNESS such as driving or operating machinery. LIMIT ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES while using this medicine because they can increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia. Rarely, alcohol can interact with glipizide and cause a serious reaction (disulfiram-like reaction) with symptoms such as facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or stomach pain. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of alcohol. During times of stress, such as fever, infection, injury, or surgery, it may be more difficult to control your blood sugar. Consult your doctor, as a change in your medicine may be required. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun or sunlamps until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period. YOU MAY NOTICE A TABLET SHELL IN YOUR STOOL. There is no cause for concern. The medicine has already been absorbed by your body even though the tablet shell has not dissolved. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN USING THIS MEDICINE IN THE ELDERLY since they may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially hypoglycemia. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. Glipizide is not recommended for use for at least 1 month before delivery due to the potential for fetal harm. Insulin may be preferred during pregnancy. Discuss all options with your doctor. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach, gas, headache, or weight gain. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience persistent sore throat or fever, easy bleeding/bruising, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness or weakness, unusual or sudden weight gain, mental/mood changes, swelling of the hands or feet, or seizures. THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE LOW BLOOD SUGAR (hypoglycemia). This effect may occur if you do not consume enough calories (from food, juices, fruit, etc). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, shaking, rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting, tingling of the hands or feet, or hunger. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you are in a situation where you do not have these reliable forms of glucose, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or drink a glass of orange juice or non-diet soda to quickly raise your blood sugar level. TELL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY about the reaction. To prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. SYMPTOMS OF HIGH BLOOD SUGAR (hyperglycemia) include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, TELL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY. Your medicine dosage may need to be increased. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Active Ingredients

Glipizide XL