Diabeta (Glyburide)

What is Diabeta?

Diabeta (glyburide) is an oral anti-diabetic medicine, which when used with proper diet and exercise schedule, helps control high blood sugar.

What is Diabeta used for?

Diabeta is indicated for the treatment of type2 (non insulin dependent) diabetes. Controlled blood sugar level further helps prevent blindness, kidney damage, loss of limbs, nerve problems, and problems related to sexual function. It may also help reduce the risk levels associated with heart attacks or strokes.

However, it is important to note that the medicine does not treat type 1 (insulin dependent diabetes).

How does Diabeta work?

Diabeta works by increasing the release of insulin produced naturally by the body.

How to use Diabeta

Use Diabeta in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine is usually taken once daily, with breakfast or the first main meal of the day. Your doctor may direct you to take the medicine twice daily, in some other manner. If such is a case, follow your doctor’s instructions wisely.

Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. Get your blood tested on a regular basis, while you are on the dosing schedule of this medicine.

Diabeta warnings and precautions

Do not take Diabeta if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or if you have type-1(insulin dependent) diabetes. Also, the medicine should not be taken by persons being treated with bosentan (Tracleer) or suffering from a state of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Before using Diabeta tell your doctor if you are suffering from kidney or liver disease, nerve disorder that is affecting bodily functions, a certain kind of enzyme deficiency known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency or G6PD, lack of RBCs or red blood cells, allergy to sulfa drugs, or if you have been using chlorpropamide or insulin.

Elderly are more sensitive to the medicine and may have lowered blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is advisable that you contact a doctor, in such a case.

Limit the use of alcohol as it can reduce blood sugar. Also, avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission.

What do I do if I have missed a Diabeta dose?

If you have missed a Diabeta dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Diabeta overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Diabeta, consult your doctor right away.

Diabeta interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Diabeta when used in tandem with it. These include blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), disopyramide, ketoconazole, fluconazole, cyclosporine, fluoxetine, rifampin, antibiotics like levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin; or ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril, ramipril, enalapril, etc.

Also, use of certain other drugs, namely, albuterol, reserpine, clonidine, and beta-blockers, should be restricted along with the use of Diabeta.

Therefore, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription drugs that you are taking, before using Diabeta. Also, tell him about any herbal medicines, or mineral or vitamin supplements that you have been using.

Do not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Diabeta side effects

Side effects from Diabeta include hives, breathing trouble, swelling on the face, throat, lips or tongue; pale skin, yellowing eyes and skin (jaundice), nausea, stomach ache, loss of appetite, weakness, clay-colored stools, dark urine, bruising, bleeding, concentration troubles, headache, hallucinations, memory problems, confusion, seizure, fainting, red or purple spots under the skin.

Mild nausea, pain in joints or muscles, blurred vision, skin rash or mild itching, and heartburn are some less serious side effects of Diabeta.