One of the sulfonylureas drugs used by type 2 diabetics to help with the production and utilization of insulin is sold under the brand name of Amaryl. Diabetes patients are frequently prescribed this drug, either alone or in combination with other medications, along with diet and exercise, to lower and maintain blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that Amaryl at least moderately decreased hemoglobin A1c, which is a measure of long-term blood sugar control. The sulfonylureas drugs may help prevent serious complications of the disease, such as nerve problems, amputations, kidney damage and blindness. However, the Amaryl diabetes drug is not without its own risks. Patients and their doctors must examine the benefits and health concerns to come up with the most sensible treatment plan for that individual, based on blood sugar levels, the severity of symptoms, and lifestyle considerations.
Diabetes and Amaryl – The Health Concerns
People who should not use the Amaryl diabetes drug include those who are allergic to glimepiride or who have diabetic ketoacidosis. Extreme caution should be taken by people with liver, kidney or heart disease; those who have sulfa sensitivities, adrenal or pituitary issues, or enzyme deficiencies; and those who are malnourished. Women who are pregnant or nursing are advised not to take Amaryl. Low blood sugar may occur with extensive exercise or a delayed meal after taking Amaryl. Stress and alcohol may increase symptoms, which include weakness, headache, tremors, loss of concentration and irritability. Side effects of the Ameryl diabetes drug range from milder symptoms such as tiredness, dizziness, headache and gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain) to more serious conditions like allergic skin reactions, numbness and tingling, muscle pain, or seizure. The risk of low blood sugar increases if you are also taking drugs such as antibiotics, aspirin, Pepto-Bismol, or NSAIDs (e.g. Advil, Motrin).
Amaryl for Diabetes – What Are Your Other Options for Lowering Blood Sugar?
If you and your doctor decide that the health risks are too great with Amaryl, diabetes treatment can be accomplished with many other options. Other drugs such as metformin and insulin may be less harsh on the body, but the safest of all is to go the natural route. For some, this may mean major lifestyle changes (cutting out harmful fats, sugars and starches from the diet, and eliminating “fast foods” and processed foods), but the health benefits will be worth the effort. There are also plant-based supplements that have been used for centuries to help lower blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. Bitter melon and mulberry leaves have been proven in clinical tests to be at least as effective as the sulfonylurease drug Glyburide, which is similar to Amaryl. Other helpful natural remedies that can be found in anti-diabetes supplements include the mineral chromium, fenugreek, cinnamon, gymnema sylvestre, and ginseng.
