Glipizide is a prescription medication that is used to control blood sugar levels in patients that have type 2 diabetes. Glipizide works to control blood sugar levels by helping the pancreas to produce insulin. Glipizide is often prescribed as part of a diabetes treatment program that can also include diet and exercise.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take glipizide tablets 30 minutes before the first meal of the day.
• Swallow whole without chewing or crushing the tablet.
• Your doctor may want to regularly check your blood sugar and do other blood tests while taking this medication.
• Watch out for the signs of low and high blood sugar levels.
• Glipizide may be prescribed as part of a treatment program that includes diet and exercise.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, intestinal blockage, chronic diarrhea, adrenal gland disorder, pituitary gland disorder, G6PD, or malnourishment.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Your dosage may need to be altered or your treatment may need to be paused.
• If you are breast-feeding.

You should also know:

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking glipizide.
• This medication may affect your concentration. Do not drive or operate machinery until you can do so safely.
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Common side effects of Glipizide include but are not limited to:

• Skin rash, itching, or redness.
• Drowsiness.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Gas.
• Tremors.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of glipizide.

• Headaches.
• Dizziness.
• Fast heart rate.
• Sweating.
• Feeling irritable, anxious, or shaky.
• Nausea.
• Hunger.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of glipizide?

If you miss a dose of glipizide, you should take it with your next meal. If you skip a meal, skip the dose as well and wait until your next meal.

What is the strength of glipizide?

Glipizide is available in a strength of 5mg.