Glucotrol

Glucotrol is a medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. It works by controlling the patient's blood sugar levels. A diet and exercise plan may also be recommended along with a Glucotrol regimen. Glucotrol is available in an extended release form, called Glucotrol XL. Glucotrol is intended for patients who are not insulin-dependent.

Side effects of Glucotrol generally occur from your blood sugar levels being too far off normal in either direction-too high (hyperglycemia), or too low (hypoglycemia). Hyperglycemia causes an increase in hunger, thirst, and urination. Hypoglycemia may cause shaking, chills, and fainting. Both situations require immediate attention, and if severe enough, they may require emergency medical attention. Some patients report Glucotrol causes heart palpitations. You should not use alcohol with Glucotrol, as it may lower your blood sugar to a dangerous level. Glucotrol 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 Glucotrol, discuss the risks with your doctor first. Patients with medical conditions such as thyroid, liver, or kidney disease, may not be able to take Glucotrol. Certain medications like aspirin and cold remedies may interact badly with Glucotrol. It is important to tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have, and all medications you take, including vitamin and herbal supplements, so that he or she may make the right decision about whether Glucotrol is right for you, and at what dosage.

Overdose of Glucotrol is possible, and may cause drowsiness, coma, and nausea. Overdose requires immediate medical care, as it may be fatal. It is extremely important that you take Glucotrol exactly as prescribed by your doctor to avoid overdose. You must also follow exactly any diet and exercise plans your doctor recommends. Failure to follow your medication, diet, and exercise regimens may lead to dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels. You should also check your blood sugar often while taking Glucotrol, to ensure your levels remain steady and normal. Patients taking Glucotrol should carry candy, juice, or glucose tablets with them at all times to treat low blood sugar.

Pfizer, the manufacturer of Glucotrol, offers a patient assistance program through its website. This program allows patients who cannot afford to purchase Glucotrol at full retail the opportunity to purchase it for discounted prices or possibly receive it for free. Pfizer's website has details on the requirements for this program.