Glimepiride: An Overview Glimepiride, manufactu...

Glimepiride: An Overview

Glimepiride, manufactured by American Health Packaging, is a medication used in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonylureas and is prescribed as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Indications and Usage

Glimepiride tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is important to note that Glimepiride tablets should not be used for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus or diabetic ketoacidosis, as it would not be effective in these settings.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended starting dose of Glimepiride is 1 or 2 mg once daily. The dose may be increased in 1 or 2 mg increments no more frequently than every 1 to 2 weeks based on glycemic response. The maximum recommended dose is 8 mg once daily. It is important to administer Glimepiride with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. Additionally, a 1 mg starting dose and slow titration are recommended for patients at increased risk for hypoglycemia, such as the elderly or those with renal impairment.

Special Considerations

Patients being transferred to Glimepiride tablets from longer half-life sulfonylureas (e.g., chlorpropamide) may have overlapping drug effects for 1 to 2 weeks and should be appropriately monitored for hypoglycemia. When colesevelam is coadministered with Glimepiride, the maximum plasma concentration and total exposure to Glimepiride are reduced, so Glimepiride tablets should be administered at least 4 hours prior to colesevelam.

FAQs about Glimepiride

Q: What is Glimepiride used for?

A: Glimepiride is used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Q: How should Glimepiride be taken?

A: The recommended starting dose of Glimepiride is 1 or 2 mg once daily, to be taken with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. The dose may be increased based on glycemic response, with a maximum recommended dose of 8 mg once daily.

Q: Are there any special considerations when taking Glimepiride?

A: Patients at increased risk for hypoglycemia should start with a 1 mg once daily dose and titrate slowly. Additionally, patients being transferred to Glimepiride from longer half-life sulfonylureas may require monitoring for hypoglycemia due to overlapping drug effects.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health or medication.