Glyset Description

Glyset or generic Miglitol is prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetics still have a pancreas that’s able to produce insulin, but the amount made is not enough to sustain a proper blood sugar level or their body is unable to use the insulin accordingly. Some folks can control their sugar through eating healthier, exercising or staying active, and giving up smoking while others need extra help to prevent high blood sugar levels and the risk of heart disease, kidney damage or failure, and possible vision loss. Glyset may be taken with other diabetes medication as directed by your doctor. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Glyset Works Differently Than Insulin Products

When taken with the first bite of your meal, Glyset goes to work by inhibiting your body’s ability to break down complex carbohydrates into glucose. Complex carbs include peas, beans, vegetables, and whole grains. By delaying the carbohydrates from being digested, there is a lesser amount of sugar being passed into your blood so you do not become hyperglycemic.

Unlike other diabetes drugs, Glyset does not cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hyperinsulinemia, or weight gain. However, if you skip or delay meals after taking Glyset, or have increased your activity or exercise routine, your blood sugar can drop. Always carry glucose tablets or paste with you as a precaution should this happen.

Information About Insulin and Diabetes

After a meal, your digestive system breaks down the carbs, proteins, and fat so the nutrients are smaller molecules that can be absorbed into your bloodstream. Glucose is one of these nutrients and as the concentration of them increases in your bloodstream, your pancreas is signaled that it must release insulin. This insulin attaches itself to cells, which tell the cells to allow glucose to enter. Glucose is then stored until it is needed for energy.

For type 2 diabetics, insulin resistance means that the cells are not responding to allow glucose in to be stored, so it remains in your bloodstream and builds up in your tissues. Type 2 diabetes can happen to those that are obese and tends to run in families. There is no cure for diabetes, but there are medications available, such as Glyset, to help you manage this condition.

Before You Take Glyset

Ask your doctor if Glyset is safe for you to take if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Let your doctor know about other medical conditions and allergies you have and list any OTC and Rx drugs you currently take pr use, including herbal preparations and dietary or vitamin supplements, and especially other diabetic medicine. This will allow your doctor to determine if Glyset is the right medication for you. If your diet changes and you have lost/gained weight, see your doctor as a dose adjustment may be required.

What Else You Should Know About Taking Glyset

Because Glyset is formulated to prevent the breakdown of table (cane) sugar, if your blood sugar drops, take glucose or dextrose to stop hypoglycemia and not sugar or fruit. Monitor your blood sugar and keep a record so you can show your doctor if there are any changes that should be addressed. Do not start or stop taking other meds without talking to your doctor first as the dosage of Glyset may have to be altered.

Possible Side Effects of Glyset

• Gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach pain

Drugs Similar to Glyset

• Precose
• Farxiga
• Glucotrol