First introduced in 1984 as a sulfonylureas class of medication for the treatment of diabetes, glipizide is sold under the brand names of Glucotrol®, GlucotrolXL®, and Metaglip® (as a combination of Glipizide and Metformin). It is prescribed for type 2 diabetes to assist the pancreas in producing insulin, thereby lowering blood sugar, and increasing the body’s efficiency in using that insulin. Glipizide is not a diabetes cure. It can only work if a person is able to produce at least some insulin; therefore, it is not for use by those with type 1 diabetes. Glipizide is available in regular form and extended release, and is to be taken orally 30 minutes before meals to control blood sugar.
Glipizid and Diabetes: Weighing the Benefits against the Side Effects
There are dozens of medications that may interact with glipizide, such as aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), cold medication, and insulin. Advise your doctor of any prescription and non-prescription drugs you are taking, and also any vitamins, supplements and herbs. Those with conditions involving the adrenal, thyroid or pituitary glands and hormonal disorders should tell their doctor, as should people who have liver, kidney or heart disease, those with a narrowing in the digestive tract, a planned surgery, and women who are pregnant or nursing. For those treating their diabetes, glipizide side effects may include allergic reactions such as hives, rash, or itchy skin; dizziness, jittery feelings, or uncontrollable shaking; flatulence and diarrhea. There may be a sore throat or fever, sensitivity to sunlight, or upper-right abdominal pain. Of special concern for those with diabetes, glipizide may also cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), more common in the elderly and those with liver, kidney, adrenal or pituitary issues. While some glipizide users report no side effects at all, there are many different conditions that may occur (as is the case with all diabetes drugs, though less so for insulin).
Glipizide Alternatives – The Importance of Diet and Exercise
For treatment of type 2 diabetes, glipizide is meant to be used along with a healthy diet and exercise. In fact, all healthcare professionals now recognize the importance of lifestyle changes in treating symptoms of diabetes and controlling blood sugar. Many diabetics have found that with regular exercise and a diet focused on fruits and vegetables, beans and whole grains, and “good oils” such as olive and omega-3, and by cutting out unhealthy fats, sugars and processed foods, they can reduce and sometimes even stop taking their diabetes medication altogether. Since stopping a drug suddenly can potentially be as dangerous as its side effects while taking it, any “weaning off of medications” should be done under the supervision of your doctor.
