Drug Uses
Glucotrol is an oral anti-diabetic drug used to control blood sugar levels in people suffering from type-2 diabetes. The drug is usually used in combination with other medicines and a good diet.
How it is taken
Glucotrol is taken about 30 minutes before a meal. Ensure that you do not take charcoal containing medicines (read product label if unsure) within 2 hours of taking Glucotrol. Take Glucotrol at the same time each day to avoid skipping doses.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Glucotrol 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
Some of the typical symptoms of a Glucotrol overdose include confusion, loss of consciousness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, shakiness, sweating, tingling of the lips and tongue, vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, if you are debilitated, have a high fever, have a severe infection, have suffered from severe trauma (eg, injury), or will be having surgery, if you have certain hormonal problems (eg, adrenal or pituitary problems), an electrolyte imbalance, acidosis, or high blood pressure, have stomach or bowel problems, severe diarrhea, or are malnourished , if you have liver, kidney, thyroid, or heart problems.
Glucotrol may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.
You must not take Glucotrol if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or certain problems associated with diabetes (eg, diabetic ketoacidosis, diabetic coma), severe burns, severe acidosis, or type 1 diabetes.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Glucotrol and contact your doctor immediately.
Certain drugs can interact with Glucotrol and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.
It is unknown whether Glucotrol is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Avoid alcoholic beverages while using Glucotrol because they can increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Rarely, alcohol can interact with Glucotrol and cause a serious reaction (disulfiram–like reaction) with symptoms such as facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or stomach pain.Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of alcohol.
The tablet shell may be seen in the stool. This is normal. Check blood sugar levels daily according to your doctor's directions.
Call your doctor if symptoms of low blood sugar develop (eg, tiredness, nausea, confusion, headache, blurred vision, dizziness, fainting, shaking, agitation, excessive hunger, chills, heavy sweating, rapid heart rate, numbness or tingling of lips, tongue, legs, arms, feet), or if symptoms of high blood sugar occur (eg, excessive thirst or urination, flushing, rapid breathing, fruity breath odor).
Proper diet, regular exercise, and blood sugar testing are important for best results. Glucotrol is not a substitute for them. Eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals.
Use of similar medicines has been associated with an increased risk of heart problems. If you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, swelling in your hands or feet, or unusual or sudden weight gain, contact your doctor immediately.
Glucotrol should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.
Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.
Glucotrol may make you more sensitive to the sun so please avoid the sun, sunlamps or a tanning booth until you know how your body reacts to the drug. If you cannot avoid going out in the sun for a long while, then wear protective clothing or use a proper sunscreen.
Periodic lab tests including blood sugar may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.
It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are abnormal skin sensations, anxiety, constipation, decreased sensitivity to stimulation, diarrhea, fainting, gas, headache, indigestion, itching, joint pain, leg cramps, loss of appetite, muscle pain, nausea, runny nose, sleeplessness, sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, weight gain. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), chest pain or irregular heartbeat, dark urine, depression, easy bleeding/bruising, fever, mental/mood changes, persistent sore throat, seizures, stomach pain, swelling of the hands or feet, tremor, unusual tiredness or weakness, unusual or sudden weight gain, yellowing eyes or skin.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.
