GLICLAZIDE

Gliclazide belongs to the class of medications known as oral hypoglycemics. It is used for the control of blood glucose in people with type 2 diabetes.

Uses

This medication is used in conjunction with diet and exercise regimens to control high blood sugar in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, circulation problems, and blindness.

Warnings

Do not take this medication if you:

are allergic to gliclazide or any ingredients of the medication
are allergic to other sulfonylureas (such as glyburide) or sulfonamides (such as sulfamethoxazole)
are pregnant or breast-feeding
are taking some forms of miconazole (ask your doctor or pharmacist for details)
are undergoing surgery or have suffered from recent severe trauma
have a serious infection
have severely reduced kidney or liver function
have type 1 diabetes
have unstable diabetes or ketoacidosis (high ketones in urine)

Side Effects

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

abdominal pain
back, muscle, or joint pain
constipation
diarrhea
dizziness
headache
heartburn
increased skin sensitivity to sun
nausea
vomiting

Precautions

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have liver problems, kidney problems, any allergies.
This drug may make you more sensitive to the sun’s effects so you should avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen when outdoors.
Notify your doctor if you become ill, are injured or acquire a severe infection.
Gliclazide is not recommended for use during pregnancy and should be used only if clearly needed while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Interactions

This drug may interact with any over-the-counter or prescription medication you are taking especially: sulfonamide antibiotics, blood thinners, antidepressants, aspirin, propranolol, rifampin, phenylbutazone, disopyramide, probenecid, clofibrate, water pills, steroids, oral contraceptives, cimetidine. Notify your doctor about this. Avoid drinking of alcohol while taking this drug. It may cause intolerance resulting in flushing, giddiness, nausea, rapid heart rate. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose & Brands

If overdose is suspected, contact your local emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include headache, sweating, shakiness, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, tiredness, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

Available brands:

Azukon MR
Diaclid
Diamicron
Glitab
Gluconil