Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Glimepiride

Glimepiride: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Glimepiride?

Glimepiride is an anti-diabetic medication sold under the brand name Amaryl. It is used alone or with other medicines to control high blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients. Glimepiride belongs to the class of hypoglycemic drugs called sulfonylureas. It lowers blood sugar by increasing the production of the hormone insulin from the pancreas. Glimepiride is not approved for use in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

What are the uses of Glimepiride?

Glimepiride is used with a healthy diet and a regular exercise program to treat people with type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood sugar levels and prevents complications of diabetes such as kidney problems, nerve damage, delayed wound healing, loss of limbs, sexual problems, blurred vision, and blindness. Proper control of blood sugar also reduces the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and death in people with type 2 diabetes.

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    What are the side effects of Glimepiride?

    Patients taking Glimepiride may experience common side effects, including dizziness, nausea, headache, and weakness. This medicine can also cause serious side effects such as low blood sugar, fast heartbeat, yellowing of the skin and eyes, severe abdominal pain, dark urine, easy bleeding, blurred vision, skin rash, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, and trouble breathing.
    Talk to your doctor immediately if you notice any side effect of Glimepiride that bothers you or does not go away.

    What is Glimepiride

    Uses of Glimepiride

    Side effects of Glimepiride

    References

    1. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a696016.html
    2. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/glimepiride/
    3. https://www.goodrx.com/glimepiride/what-is#basics
    4. https://www.rxlist.com/amaryl-drug.htm#description

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Glimepiride

    Glimepiride is available in oral tablets and is taken once daily in the morning with breakfast or the first meal of the day. You should swallow the tablet whole with water without chewing or crushing it. Always take medicines at the same time each day for maximum benefits.

    Both metformin and Glimepiride are safe medicines to control blood sugar in type 2 diabetic patients. But metformin can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea, gas, or stomach cramping. So, if you already have stomach problems, your doctor may prescribe Glimepiride. However, Glimepiride can cause low blood sugar and weight gain.

    Glimepiride starts reducing blood sugar levels in about 2-3 hours after a single dose. The effectiveness of the medicine can last for up to 24 hours. If Glimepiride stops working after some time, your doctor may increase the dose or add another diabetic drug such as metformin to your treatment plan.

    No. Taking the medication on an empty stomach can cause your blood sugar levels to become too low. Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, shaking, anxiety, irritability, a fast heartbeat, and confusion. Therefore, you should always take Glimepiride with breakfast or the first meal of the day. If you are skipping your meal, then you should also avoid taking Glimepiride.

    Glimepiride is a sulfonylurea drug and causes the pancreas to release insulin. It may stimulate hunger and cause mild weight gain in some people. Patients are advised to eat a healthy balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep their weight stable. You can also consult our expert to know how Glimepiride will impact your body.

    Glimepiride can sometimes cause low blood sugar if you have kidney or liver problems. Before starting the medication, tell your doctor if you have had kidney problems, liver diseases, or other medical conditions. Your doctor may need to reduce the dosage of Glimepiride to minimize the risk of low blood sugar.

    Glimepiride is effective for lowering blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. It also prevents your organs from the harmful effects of high blood sugar levels such as kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, and sexual problems. Additionally, it is a good option for those who do not take insulin injections due to the pain or limitations in daily activities.

    Glimepiride is a safe medicine for diabetes and can be used for long-term treatment. It does not cause any harm to your pancreas or your body. But if you don't take it as directed by your doctor, it can cause high blood sugar. Over time, it can cause damage to your kidneys, nerves, eyes, or heart.

    Some medications for Type 2 diabetes increase the risk of inflammation and swelling in the pancreas or pancreatitis. Fortunately, Glimepiride is not known to affect the pancreas or cause pancreatitis. But you should always follow a low-fat and high-protein diet while taking anti-diabetic medication to reduce your risk of pancreatitis.

    Glimepiride does not increase your blood pressure. Instead, the regular intake of medicine reduces the damage and stiffness in the blood vessels and arteries that lead to high blood pressure. The medication can also lower your risk of having more heart problems, a heart attack, or stroke in the future.
    S.no Product Name Dosage Form
    1. Amaryl 1mg Glimepiride (1mg) + Metformin (500mg) Tablet
    2. Amaryl 2mg Glimepiride (2mg) + Metformin (500mg) Tablet
    3. Glycomet-GP 1 1mg Tablet
    4. Glycomet-GP 2 2mg Tablet
    5. Glycomet-GP 0.5 Glimepiride (0.5mg) + Metformin (500mg) Tablet