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General Medication Fact Sheet for Glipizide
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Glipizide |
| Brand Name Versions | Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL |
| Purpose | To lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus |
| Mechanism of Action | Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells and increases sensitivity to insulin in peripheral tissues. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, Extended-release tablets |
| Available Strengths | 5 mg, 10 mg (immediate release); 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg (extended release) |
| Dosage Frequency | Immediate release: Usually once or twice daily; Extended release: Once daily |
| Common Side Effects | Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), nausea, diarrhea, constipation |
| Serious Side Effects | Severe hypoglycemia, allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), liver problems |
| Drug Interactions | Beta-blockers, NSAIDs, certain antifungals (e.g., fluconazole), warfarin, alcohol |
| Important Notes | Take 30 minutes before meals (immediate release); Take with breakfast (extended release); Monitor blood sugar levels regularly; Alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycemia |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Metformin, Glyburide, Glimepiride, Pioglitazone, Sitagliptin |
Glipizide Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metformin (Glucophage) | Decreases hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity | First-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. |
| Glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase) | Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells | Another sulfonylurea, similar to glipizide. |
| Glimepiride (Amaryl) | Stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells | A longer-acting sulfonylurea. |
| Pioglitazone (Actos) | Increases insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues | A thiazolidinedione (TZD). May have a risk of fluid retention. |
| Sitagliptin (Januvia) | Inhibits DPP-4, increasing incretin levels and stimulating insulin release | A DPP-4 inhibitor. |
Glipizide Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) | Severe hypoglycemia (seizures, loss of consciousness) |
| Nausea | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) |
| Diarrhea | Liver problems (jaundice, dark urine) |
| Constipation | |
| Dizziness |
Glipizide Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Immediate Release) | 5 mg | 2.5-20 mg per day (divided doses if >15mg) | Take 30 minutes before meals. |
| Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (Extended Release) | 5 mg | 5-20 mg once daily | Take with breakfast. |
Glipizide Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $10 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $15 |
| From Canada | $5 |
