Try Glucotrol for Help Controlling Type 2 Diabetes

Glucotrol is a sulfonylurea medication prescribed for treating those with type 2 diabetes to keep their blood sugar in check. Type 2 diabetics may still be able to produce insulin but possibly not enough to control glucose levels or your body is unable to use it properly so glucose is not being removed from your blood sufficiently enough. Glucotrol is not prescribed to those with type 1 diabetes.

How Glucotrol Works in Your Body

When taken as instructed, Glucotrol or generic Glipizide triggers an increase of calcium concentrations inside the beta cells of your pancreas and sets off the release of insulin. The insulin then removes sugar (glucose) from the blood and reduces the amount of sugar the liver produces. This sugar is then stored in cells until your body needs it for energy. There is no cure for diabetes but taking Glucotrol can help blood glucose from rising and avoiding other health risks that can develop. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Glucotrol and a Healthy Lifestyle

If you have a family history of diabetes, try to eat healthier, exercise, stop smoking, and have your blood checked often so becoming a diabetic is not such a high risk. Taking Glucotrol can help control blood sugar levels but it still needs your co-operation to live healthier. Glucotrol will be a long-term medication and as time goes on, possibly require other drugs as your pancreas may stop producing insulin altogether. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs, and sexual function problems. Proper control of diabetes may also lessen the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Before You Take Glucotrol

Make sure the doctor is aware of other medical conditions you have and list any current prescription drugs and over the counter medicine you take or use, including vitamin supplements and homeopathic remedies. Ask about the safety of taking Glucotrol while you are pregnant, if you are trying to conceive, or you are breast feeding.

Precautions and Recommendations for Glucotrol

You should not skip meals while taking Glucotrol as it causes beta cells to produce insulin all day long. If you have not eaten, your insulin will process whatever glucose is in your body and possibly cause hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. You will need regular blood tests to be sure the dosage of Glucotrol is correct. Do not try to adjust your medication yourself, always speak with the prescribing doctor first.

Inform any medical staff that you are taking Glucotrol as you may receive other instructions if you are scheduled for a dental or surgical procedure and are required to fast overnight. You should also know what to do if you are sick and cannot eat anything or take your daily medications.

Possible Side Effects of Glucotrol

• Indigestion
• Mild nausea
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Skin rash or itching

Drugs Similar to Glucotrol

• ACTOplus Met
• Januvia
• Avandia