Glipizide (generic Glucotrol)

Uses

Glipizide is used with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It may also be used with other diabetes medications. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Glipizide belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonylureas. It lowers blood sugar by causing the release of your body’s natural insulin.

How to use Glucotrol

Take this medication by mouth 30 minutes before breakfast or the first meal of the day as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Some patients, especially those taking higher doses, may be directed to take this drug twice a day. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

If you are already taking another diabetes drug (such as chlorpropamide), follow your doctor’s directions carefully for stopping the old drug and starting glipizide.

Colesevelam can decrease the absorption of glipizide. If you are taking colesevelam, take glipizide at least 4 hours before taking colesevelam.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (your blood sugar is too high or too low).

Information on this medication quoted from WebMD.com