What is this medication for?
Glimepiride belongs to a class of medications known as oral hypoglycemics. This medication is used to control blood sugar for people with type 2 diabetes in addition to diet and exercise. Glimepiride works by increasing the release of insulin by the pancreas and also helps the body use this insulin more efficiently.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended usual starting dose is 1 mg to 2 mg once daily taken with breakfast or the first main meal. Your doctor may increase the dose depending on your response to the medication. The maximum daily dose is 8 mg. Glimepiride should be taken at the same time each day for optimal control of blood sugar levels.
Glimepiride can be used either alone or together with other antidiabetic medications (i.e., metformin or insulin).
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use this medication if you:
- are allergic to glimepiride or any ingredients of the medication
- have diabetic ketoacidosis, with or without coma (this condition should be treated with insulin)