Drug Uses
Amaryl is an oral medication used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes when their high blood sugar level cannot be controlled with diet and exercise alone. Amaryl can also be used along with insulin.
How it is taken
The best way to take Amaryl is with the breakfast or the first main meal of the day. You may also take it as recommended by your doctor. You may also check dosage instructions on the product label.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Amaryl, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Overdose
An Amaryl overdose can cause low blood sugar and coma, confusion, convulsions, light headedness, loss of consciousness, tingling of the lips and tongue, rapid pulse, stupor, sweating, seizures, tremor and vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Storage
Store it at room temperature (between between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, increased levels of acid in your bodily fluids (acidosis), intestinal problems, a high fever, liver problems, a weak stomach, kidney problems, severe diarrhea, or thyroid problems, recently suffered from major surgery or trauma.
You must not take Amaryl if you have type 1 diabetes, severe second or third degree burns, increased ketone levels, a history of a diabetic coma or if you are using bosentan or drink alcohol.
Alcohol when combined with Amaryl can lead to low blood sugar.
Low blood sugar can make you anxious, sweaty, weak, dizzy, drowsy, or even faint. You must carry a reliable source of glucose at all times to control this. If nothing is available, then drink or eat a quick source of sugar like table sugar, honey, candy, orange juice, or non–diet soda.
To prevent low blood sugar, you must eat the meal at the same time each day and avoid skipping meals.
Monitor your blood sugar level at all times to gauge the effectiveness of the treatment.
Speak to your doctor about maintaining your blood sugar level at all times (fever, stress, fatigue, injury)
Certain drugs can interact with Amaryl and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking, especially any of the following.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Amaryl. It is unknown whether Amaryl is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Periodic lab tests may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
Medicines like Amaryl (sulfonylurea anti-diabetic) are associated with an increased risk of death due to heart disease. So discuss the pros and cons of the medicine with your doctor.
Amaryl is not to be used by children as the safety and effectiveness is yet to be verified.
It has been noted that elder patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
Some of the common side effects of Amaryl are diarrhea, dizziness, headache, nausea, tiredness and weakness.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions, rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
You must seek medical attention immediately if these side effects occur.
