Glucotrol (glipizide) is an oral tablet made up of a sulfonylureas drug called glipizide. We carry the generic alternative to this medication in 5mg! You can also purchase Glucotrol XR (extended release) here at MyDrugCenter!

Glucotrol (glipizide) is prescribed in combination with a proper diet and exercise plan to help improve blood sugar levels in those with Diabetes type 2. This medication is not a treatment for Diabetes type 1. Having high blood sugar can lead to conditions such as heart disease, heart attack, stroke, nerve damage, eye damage, and skin problems. By controlling blood sugar levels, not only are lowering the risk for these health conditions, but also lowering the symptoms of high blood sugar such as intense thirst or hunger, blurry vision, frequently urinating, and numb/tingly feet.

Glucotrol (glipizide) is effective in controlling blood sugar levels because it teams up with your pancreas to help produce more insulin. Insulin is one of many hormones in our body that help us turn food into energy and to help store it for later use. It does this by taking the sugar from our blood stream and placing it into our bodys cells to make fat, protein and sugar for energy when we do not have it.

Always follow directions given to you by your doctor. Most prescription labels have the directions written on them for your convenience.

Take Glucotrol half an hour (30 minutes) before you eat in the morning.

Ensure you are keeping up with blood tests during the duration of treatment.

Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture, heat and light.

If you have a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), you should not take Glucotrol. Medications containing glipizide (and other sulfonylureas) are contradicted when used as a treatment for patients with DKA.

If you have renal or liver disease, you may need a dose adjustment or alternate medication. This medication is metabolized in the liver and those with impaired liver and/or renal function may be exposed to higher levels of the drug and may induce severe hypoglycemia.

If you have G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency), you may also need a dose adjustment or alternate medication. Medications like glipizide (sulfonylureas) may cause hemolytic anemia (a condition where red blood cells are abnormally broken down and can lead to serious complications) in patients who suffer from G6PD.

You may also need to consider a different medication or need a dose adjustment when taking Glucotrol if you are a patient with kidney disease, chronic diarrhea, and blockage in the intestines, a disorder of your pituitary or adrenal gland, a history of heart disease or if you are malnourished.

If you are a pregnant female with diabetes type 2 and need to take Glucotrol; follow directions from your doctor very carefully as it is important to control blood sugar levels during pregnancy. You will likely need a dose adjustment every trimester of pregnancy. During the last 2 weeks of pregnancy, you will need to discontinue use until after you have given birth.

Consult your doctor if you are a breast feeding women needing to take Glucotrol. It may not be safe for you to breast feed while using this medication.

Common side effects of Glucotrol (glipizide) may include:

diarrhea, constipation, gas;

dizziness, drowsiness;

tremors; or

skin rash, redness, or itching.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Signs to watch for:

Allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): headache, hunger, sweating, irritability, dizziness, nausea, fast heart rate, and feeling anxious or shaky.

If you notice any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

What is a glucagon emergency injection kit?

A glucagon emergency injection kit is for the treatment of severe hypoglycemia and may be prescribed to you with Glucotrol incase severe hypoglycemia occurs.

Is this safe for children?

It has not been established as safe or effective in the use of children.

How should I store this product?

Store away from children and pets at room temperature, protected from moisture, heat, and light.

What type of diet should I follow while on this medication?

You may eat foods like beans, legumes, eggs, seafood, dairy, peas, tofu, and lean meats and poultry. You may also follow a diet such as a vegetarian or vegan diet, the American Diabetes Association diet (which also emphasizes exercise), the Paleo Diet, and the Mediterranean diet.

What if I miss a dose?

Take this missed dose as soon as you remember if you are able to eat. Skip the missed dose if you are not hungry or if the next dose is approaching. Do not take two doses at one time.