Micronase

Generic name: Glyburide

What is Micronase?

Micronase is an oral antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body either does not make enough insulin or fails to use insulin properly. Insulin transfers sugar from the bloodstream to the body's cells, where it is then used for energy.

There are two forms of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes results from a complete shutdown of normal insulin production and usually requires insulin injections for life, while type 2 diabetes can usually be treated by dietary changes, exercise, and/or oral antidiabetic medications such as Micronase. This medication controls diabetes by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin and by helping insulin to work better.

Micronase can be used alone or along with a drug called metformin, if diet plus either drug alone fails to control sugar levels.

What is the most important information I should know about Micronase?

Always remember that Micronase is an aid to, not a substitute for, good diet and exercise. Failure to follow a sound diet and exercise plan can lead to serious complications, such as dangerously high or low blood sugar levels. It is very important for you to monitor your blood sugar regularly and inform your doctor of any changes. Remember, too, that Micronase is not an oral form of insulin, and cannot be used in place of insulin.

A recent study showed that treatment with Micronase may increase the risk of heart-related death in patients treated with blood sugar-lowering medications over an extended period of time.

Who should not take Micronase?

You should not take Micronase if you have had an allergic reaction to it or to similar drugs. Also, do not take Micronase if you have type 1 diabetes mellitus and are taking Micronase as your only means of sugar control.

Micronase should not be taken if you are suffering from diabetic ketoacidosis (a life-threatening medical emergency caused by insufficient insulin and marked by excessive thirst, nausea, fatigue, pain below the breastbone, and fruity breath).

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Micronase?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Micronase. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney impairment or disease, don't eat a sufficient amount of calories, exercise excessively, have impaired adrenal or pituitary gland function, or drink alcohol.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5-5 milligrams (mg) taken once daily with breakfast or the first eaten meal. If you are sensitive to drugs that lower blood sugar your doctor may start you on 1.25mg once daily therapy.

Your doctor may increase your individual dose depending on if you are also using insulin or you have taken other oral blood sugar lowering medications. Daily doses greater than 20 milligrams are not recommended.

How should I take Micronase?

Micronase should be taken at the same time every day in the morning with breakfast or with the first meal eaten.

What should I avoid while taking Micronase?

You should avoid drinking alcohol, not eating enough, and exercising excessively.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Micronase?

If Micronase is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Micronase with the following: beta-blockers such as the blood pressure medications atenolol and propranolol; blood thinners such as warfarin; calcium channel blockers such as the blood pressure medications diltiazem and nifedipine; certain antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin; chloramphenicol; corticosteroids; estrogens; isoniazid; MAO inhibitors such as the antidepressants phenelzine and tranylcypromine; miconazole; nicotinic acid; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen; oral contraceptives; phenothiazines; phenytoin; probenecid; salicylates; sulfonamides; sympathomimetics; thiazide-type diuretics and other diuretics; and thyroid medications.

What are the possible side effects of Micronase?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: allergic reactions, arthritic pain, blistering and irritation of the skin, bloating, heartburn, increased sensitivity to sunlight, itchy skin, low blood sodium levels, low blood sugar, lowering of the number of cells in your blood, nausea, rash

Micronase, like all oral antidiabetics, may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Signs and symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, shakiness, tremor, or light-headedness. The signs of low blood sugar may be hard to recognize if you are elderly or you are taking a medication known as a beta-adrenergic antagonist. Eating sugar or a sugar-based product will often correct mild hypoglycemia. Severe hypoglycemia should be considered a medical emergency, and prompt medical attention is essential.

Can I receive Micronase if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Micronase during pregnancy are unknown. If you remain on Micronase during your pregnancy, you should stop taking Micronase at least 2 weeks before your expected date of delivery.

Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Drugs similar to Micronase are excreted in breast milk, therefore, discuss with your doctor whether to discontinue breastfeeding or Micronase therapy.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Micronase?

If you miss a dose of Micronase, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not double your next dose.

How should I store Micronase?

Micronase should be stored at room temperature, in a tightly closed container.