Glimepiride

Glimepiride is an oral medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Your doctor will recommend a diet and exercise plan for you to use in conjunction with Glimepiride. Glimepiride may also be prescribed in conjunction with other diabetes drugs-one such common combination is Glimepiride and Rosiglitazone. Glimepiride is sold under the brand name Amaryl, but as the Glimepiride patent expiration date was in the year 2005, more manufacturers may begin selling Glimepiride under other names. There is no set dosage of Glimepiride, as your doctor will adjust your dosage to the lowest that will work for you. Generally, Glimepiride tablets are available in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 4 mg doses.

Side effects of Glimepiride may be minor, such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, or major, like chest pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), or seizure. Glimepiride is not known to cause depression, but if you experience depression while on this medication, let your doctor know. Inform your doctor of any minor side effects you experience while taking Glimepiride, but get immediate medical help for any major side effects or allergic reactions. Glimepiride is a class "C" drug, so it should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women. If you plan to become pregnant or begin breastfeeding while on Glimepiride, discuss the risks with your doctor first. You should avoid alcohol use, as this may lower your blood sugar to dangerous levels. Patients with liver or heart disease may not be able to take Glimepiride, so your doctor should know about all your preexisting medical conditions. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, as even common drugs may interact poorly with Glimepiride. This includes common prescription drugs like birth control pills, and over the counter medications such as cold remedies. Vitamin and herbal supplement use should also be disclosed to your doctor, as they may also interact with Glimepiride.

Glimepiride must be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You must also follow your recommended diet and exercise plan to the letter. Failure to properly take Glimepiride or to follow your diet and exercise plan may result in blood sugar level fluctuations, either high or low. You may ask your doctor about a glucagon emergency kit, which consists of an injection you may take if your blood sugar levels become dangerously low. Alternately, you may keep certain foods or drinks, such as candy or orange juice, with you at all times, to be used to raise your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar often to make sure your levels are healthy and stable.