Indications
Glucotrol XL is a prescription medication used with a proper diet and exercise program to improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is also known by its generic name glipizide, is an extended-release medication that is administered orally. It works by improving glycemic control and reducing high blood glucose levels to prevent complications such as blindness, loss of limbs, sexual dysfunction, kidney damage, stroke, and heart attack.
Glucotrol XL is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Its usage may come with certain limitations and requires careful dosage adjustments based on factors such as age and renal or hepatic impairment. Glucotrol XL is not recommended for patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Uses and Dosage
Glucotrol XL is prescribed as an extended-release tablet to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. You should take the tablet orally once a day, typically with breakfast or your first meal of the day. Swallow the tablet whole and drink a full glass of liquid afterward. Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablet because it could release the active ingredient all at once, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
Take Glucotrol XL exactly as directed and plan your doses ahead of time to avoid missing them. If you are also taking colesevelam, be sure to take it at least four hours after taking Glucotrol XL because it can decrease the medication's absorption.
Do not alter your dosage of Glucotrol XL without consulting your doctor, as it is based on your medical condition, other medications you are taking, and your response to treatment. You should also not stop taking this medication abruptly, even for a brief period, to avoid worsening your condition.
The recommended starting dose of Glucotrol XL is typically 5 mg taken orally once per day. This may be increased to 10 mg per day after several days, depending on the patient's response and need for glycemic control. In some cases, patients at higher risk for hypoglycemia may require a starting dosage of 2.5 mg per day. The maximum recommended dosage is 20 mg per day. As always, you should follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and administration of Glucotrol XL or any other medication.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Glucotrol XL (Glipizide XL):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Gas
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Vomiting
- Weight gain
Serious Side Effects of Glucotrol XL (Glipizide XL):
- Dark urine
- Easy bruising or blessing
- High blood sugar or hyperglycemia (flushing, fruity breath odor, palpitations, increased thirst, increased urination, confusion)
- Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia (shaking, sweating, blurred vision, tingling sensation, dizziness)
- Mental or mood changes
- Persistent vomiting
- Seizures
- Severe abdominal pain
- Severe fatigue
- Swelling of the extremities
- Symptoms of infection (sore throat, fever, chills)
- Yellowish eyes and skin
Form and Strength
Glucotrol XL (Glipizide XL) is available in the following forms and strength:
Glucotrol XL: ER (Extended Release) Tablet
- 2.5mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Glipizide XL: ER Tablet
- 2.5 mg
- 10 mg
Caution
- Glipizide can increase the risk of cardiovascular mortality with oral hypoglycemic drugs
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which is a common side effect of Glucotrol XL. Use with caution in elderly patients due to an increased risk of hypoglycemia.
- Caution is advised in patients with liver or kidney problems which may require dosage adjustments
- Colesevelam can decrease the absorption of Glucotrol XL, so it should be taken at least four hours after taking Glucotrol XL
- Glucotrol XL should not be stopped abruptly, even for a brief period, to avoid worsening the medical condition.
- Use with caution in patients with G6PD deficiency, as this medication may cause hemolytic anemia
- Glucotrol XL may cause blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness so caution is advised while driving or operating heavy machinery
- Caution is advised if alcohol is consumed when taking Glucotrol XL which may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Glucotrol XL cause weight gain?
It is possible for Glucotrol XL to cause weight gain as a side effect, but this is not common.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Glucotrol XL?
If you miss a dose of Glucotrol XL, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Glucotrol XL?
Use caution when consuming alcohol while taking Glucotrol XL, as it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
How long does it take for Glucotrol XL to work?
The onset of action for Glucotrol XL is usually within an hour, and the medication remains active for up to 24 hours.
Is Glucotrol XL safe for elderly patients?
Glucotrol XL should be used with caution in elderly patients, as they may be more susceptible to side effects such as hypoglycem
Resources
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-glipizide-oral-tablets
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/glucotrol-xl-dosage
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/glucotrol-xl.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/020329s22lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10095/glucotrol-xl-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=eed99b60-d043-4249-9b2a-f05e46fb588d
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