What is Glimepiride (Amaryl)?
Glimepiride is a hypoglycemic medication that is used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a medical condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin. When blood sugar levels rise, the body will stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin, which helps glucose enter the muscle cells for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream. Patients with type 2 diabetes can take this medication to help the body produce insulin. As a result, this medication helps to reduce high blood sugar levels. It can be used in combination with other diabetes drugs and insulin.
Glimepiride Dosage
The starting dose is typically 1 mg taken during breakfast or with the first main meal, or as guided by a medical care provider. If blood sugar levels aren’t lowered, or the desired results aren’t achieved, the doctor may increase the dose to 2 mg. However, any further adjustments are usually done in increments of 1 mg in one to two week intervals, depending on your response. Adult maintenance dose ranges from 1 mg to 4 mg once daily and 8 mg is the maximum dose taken daily. It’s crucial to swallow the tablet whole with at least a half a glass of water or liquid. Never chew nor crush the medicine. As you use the medicine, you should be mindful to be on the lookout for the side effects of Amaryl, discussed later in this article.
Some patients with type 2 diabetes are able to control their blood sugar levels with diet and exercise only. Hence, sticking to a planned diet and physical activity is of the essence while on Amaryl. For the drug to be most effective, your dosage should be balanced with the food you consume and the physical activity you participate in. If you change your eating habits, your exercise routine or both, it’s important to check if your blood glucose levels change. Your physician will give more information about this.
Take the medication as instructed by your medical care provider only. Do not take more or less of the medicine than you have been prescribed. Store the drug at room temperature, away from children’s reach. Protect the tablets from sunlight, as well as moisture, and don’t dispose of it in waste water or the garbage. Instead, ask the pharmacist or your doctor about the best way to discard drugs that are no longer in use or are expired.
Doctor’s Recommendation
Always check with your doctor before adjusting your Amaryl dosage. If you have any questions or concerns about the right dosage for your condition, talk to your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Taking too much Amaryl can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), with symptoms like shakiness, nervousness, sweating, and clammy skin. In rare but serious cases, severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures, unconsciousness, or even a coma. If you notice any of these symptoms, get medical help right away.
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Disclaimer: Please note that the contents of this community article are strictly for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. This article, and other community articles, are not written or reviewed for medical validity by Canadian Insulin or its staff. All views and opinions expressed by the contributing authors are not endorsed by Canadian Insulin. Always consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.
