1. How Does Glyburide Work?
Glyburide is an anti-diabetic medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas still secretes insulin but not enough insulin is produced to aid the body in absorbing glucose. Glyburide stimulates the pancreas so it produces more insulin and lowers the blood glucose level. Glyburide is not effective for insulin dependent diabetics, because their pancreas has stopped producing insulin, and they must have insulin to replace it.
2. Understand How to Take Glyburide
Glyburide is a pill that is taken once a day at breakfast. If the doctor has prescribed a larger dose, glyburide can be taken twice a day. Make sure you understand the dosage directions or the pharmacist's directions if you've just increased the dosage to twice a day. Never take more than the prescribed dosage because it can lower your blood sugar. To help your body maintain balance, take glyburide at the same time every day.
3. Know the Side Effects
Some people who start taking glyburide experience a feeling of fullness, weight gain and drowsiness. Another side effect of glyburide is sensitivity to the sun. Because glyburide is an anti-diabetic medication, hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can occur. More serious side effects include unusual bleeding or bruising, dark colored urine, skin rash, itching, redness or unusual sunburn, yellow tinge to the skin or eyes, light colored stools or sore throat and fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
4. Understand Interactions With Other Drugs
Do not take glyburide if you are taking bosentan, a drug used to treat pulmonary hypertension. Make sure your doctor knows all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. Drug interactions can occur if you are taking antibiotics, birth control pills, hormones, blood thinners, aspirin, NSAIDS, decongestants, thyroid medication or heart medication. Make a list of all the medications you take so your doctor can decide if you should take glyburide.
5. Special Precautions You Need to Know About
If you've been treated for heart or kidney disease in the past, make sure your doctor knows about it. If you are pregnant or plan on a pregnancy, discuss taking glyburide with your doctor first. Do not breast feed while taking glyburide because it can enter into breast milk. Many doctors recommend taking insulin if you're pregnant. Let the dentist know you are taking glyburide if you are planning any dental surgery.
