What is this medication for?
Tolbutamide belongs to the class of medications called oral hypoglycemics.
It is used for the control of blood glucose (sugar) for people with type
2 diabetes. It is used when diet, exercise, and weight reduction have
not been found to control blood glucose well enough on their own. Tolbutamide
works by increasing the amount of insulin (a hormone produced by the pancreas
that allows sugar to enter into cells where it is needed for energy) released
by the pancreas and by helping the body to use 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 have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to 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. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Tolbutamide by Watson Pharmaceuticals is available as:
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 adult dose of tolbutamide ranges from 500 mg twice
a day to 1,500 mg twice a day depending on the need according to blood
glucose tests and as prescribed by your doctor. The tablets should be taken
with or before food at breakfast and supper. It is very important to monitor
blood sugar levels closely, especially when increasing and decreasing doses
of medication or when exercise levels or weight changes occur. Your doctor or
diabetes educator will instruct you on the best use of a glucose monitor.
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 taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as
prescribed by your doctor. If you forget a dose of tolbutamide, take it as soon
as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and go back to your regular schedule. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is an important
concern if too much of this medication is taken for your circumstances. Ask
your doctor or diabetes educator what you should do when you are not going to
be eating for a long period of time or when you are going to be exercising more
than usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Tolbutamide should not be used by anyone who:
- has type 1 diabetes (they should always be using insulin)
- is allergic to tolbutamide or any ingredients of the medication
- has diabetic ketoacidosis