Amaryl (Glimepiride)

Common uses

This medicine is a sulfonylurea used to treat diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes).

Before using

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking 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 doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Use of Amaryl is not recommended if you have a history of acidosis. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking Amaryl.

Directions

Follow the directions for using Amaryl provided by your doctor. Take Amaryl with breakfast or your first main meal.

Store Amaryl at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor.

Follow the dietary plan provided by your doctor. This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to this medicine. 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 doctor.

This medicine 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 doctor or nurse how to handle hypoglycemic reactions.

If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Amaryl during pregnancy. It is unknown if Amaryl is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Amaryl.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dizziness, weakness, headache, or nausea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include lightheadedness, sweating, rapid pulse, tremor, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

Additional information

Do not share Amaryl with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use Amaryl for other health conditions.

Keep Amaryl out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with Amaryl. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.