Chemical Name: GLIMEPIRIDE (GLYE-me-pye-ride)
Common uses
Amaryl is a sulfonylurea used to treat diabetes.
Prior to Use
Be aware that pre-existing medical conditions, or taking additional medications could interfere with the
effectiveness of this one. Let your physician or pharmacist know about any other medications -- prescription or over-the-counter -- that you are using. If you are taking any of the following, your dose or condition may need regular supervision: chloramphenicol, dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, gemfibrozil, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), oxyphenbutazone, phenylbutazone, sulfa antibiotics, certain "water pills" (diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide), or medicine for high blood pressure or heart conditions (ACE inhibitors). Inform your physician of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. You should not take Amaryl if you have a history of acidosis. If you have questions or concerns about Amaryl, be sure to let your physician or pharmacist know.
Instructions for Use
Follow your physician's instructions for taking Amaryl. Take Amaryl with breakfast or your first main meal. Store Amaryl at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. Should you skip or forget a dose of Amaryl, begin using it immediately. If it is almost time for your next dose, omit the skipped dose and continue to follow your original dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.
Warnings
Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, consult your pharmacist or physician . Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your physician. Follow the dietary plan provided by your physician. Amaryl may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Amaryl. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period. Do not drink alcohol without first discussing it with your physician. Amaryl may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs of hypoglycemia include an increased heart rate, headache, sweating, tremor, increased hunger, changes in vision, nervousness, or tiredness. Discuss with your physician or nurse how to handle hypoglycemic reactions. If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your physician the benefits and risks of using Amaryl during pregnancy. The effects of Amaryl on breast milk is not known. You should not breast-feed if you are using Amaryl.
Potential Side Effects
Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dizziness, weakness, headache, or nausea. Consult your physician if they do not go away or if they bring you difficulties. Let your physician, pharmacist, or nurse know if you experience any side-effects not listed here.
Drug interactions
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.
In Case of Overdose
Contact a poison control center or visit an emergency room immediately, if you think you have overdosed. Indications of an overdose are lightheadedness, sweating, rapid pulse, tremor, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
Additional information
Do not let anyone else use Amaryl. Do not take Amaryl to treat health conditions other than what it was prescribed for. Store this and all medication away from the reach of children. If using Amaryl for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
