GLUCOTROL

Drug Name: GLUCOTROL

GLUCOTROL DESCRIPTION:
GLIPIZIDE - ORAL TABLET (GLIP-eh-zide)

COMMON GLUCOTROL BRAND NAME(S):
Glucotrol

GLUCOTROL SIDE EFFECTS:
Headache, stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop itchy skin, dark urine, fever, sore throat, swelling of the hands or feet or unusual bleeding or bruising while taking GLUCOTROL. GLUCOTROL can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, shaking, rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting. If you experience these symptoms, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, orange juice, honey or non-diet soda. Tell your doctor about the reaction. To help prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing or fruity breath odor. If any of these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. GLUCOTROL can increase sensitivity to sunlight. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE GLUCOTROL:
GLUCOTROL: GLUCOTROL should be taken 30 minutes before a meal. Take GLUCOTROL at the same time(s) each day in order to maintain a constant blood level. Monitor blood glucose levels daily while taking GLUCOTROL. You may need to be switched to insulin therapy if you develop a severe infection, diabetic coma or undergo major surgery.

GLUCOTROL USES:
GLUCOTROL is used in the treatment of non-insulin dependent diabetes. It must be used in conjunction with proper diet and exercise to help decrease blood sugar levels.

GLUCOTROL PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your complete medical history, especially if you have high blood pressure or liver or kidney disease. Your medicine may need to be changed. Avoid alcohol while taking GLUCOTROL. It can cause facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or stomach pain. GLUCOTROL may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Insulin therapy may be necessary during pregnancy. Some oral antidiabetic medications appear in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

GLUCOTROL DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription) especially if you are using "blood thinners" (Coumadin-like drugs), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, propranolol, timolol) including certain glaucoma eye medicines, aspirin-like drugs or probenecid because your dose may need to be adjusted. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

GLUCOTROL OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include headache, sweating, shakiness, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, tiredness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

GLUCOTROL NOTES:
It is recommended to attend a diabetes education program to understand diabetes and all aspects of its treatment including diet, exercise, personal hygiene, medications and getting regular eye exams. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease and circulation problems.

MISSED GLUCOTROL DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

GLUCOTROL STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.