Generic Name: Glimepiride

  • What is this medication and its most common uses?

    Amaryl is a medicine used along with diet and exercise to help control high blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.

  • What should I know when beginning and continuing on this medication?

    How does this medication work?

    Amaryl helps your body release more insulin, thereby helping to control your blood sugar.

    What are the beneficial effects of this medication and when should I begin to have results?

    What: Lowering your blood sugar to a normal level may prevent or delay potential complications associated with diabetes, such as blindness, kidney failure, or heart problems.

    When: Everyone responds differently to treatment, so try to be patient and follow your healthcare provider's directions. It is important that you take Amaryl exactly as your healthcare provider has prescribed.

    How do I know it is working?

    Check your blood sugar regularly and as per your healthcare provider's recommendations. Your healthcare provider will also do regular blood tests to measure your blood sugar levels and your hemoglobin A1C (which estimates your average blood sugar levels over a 2- to 3-month period). Stay on your prescribed diet and exercise program, as this will also affect the results of your blood tests.

  • What are the possible side effects of this medication?

    The following is not a full list of side effects. Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Only your healthcare provider can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this medication.

    More common side effects may include: low blood sugar, headache, nausea, dizziness.

    Symptoms of low blood sugar include: shaking, sweating, rapid heartbeat, changes in your vision, hunger, headache, or changes in your mood.

    Less common side effects may include:

    Serious allergic reactions with symptoms such as rash; hives; and swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat that may cause trouble breathing.

    Increased risk of life-threatening heart problems.

  • Who should not take this medication?

    Do not take Amaryl if you are allergic to it, any of its ingredients, or other sulfonamide medications (such as sulfamethoxazole).

  • What should I tell my healthcare provider before I take the first dose of this medication?

    Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Amaryl. Also, talk to your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have a condition known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency; heart, kidney, or liver problems; or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What is the usual dosage?

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

    Adults: The recommended starting dose is 1 or 2 milligrams once a day. Your healthcare provider may increase your dose as needed, until the desired effect is achieved.

    If you are elderly or have kidney impairment, your healthcare provider may adjust your dose appropriately.

  • How should I take this medication?

    Take Amaryl exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change your dose or stop taking Amaryl without first talking to your healthcare provider.

    Take Amaryl with breakfast or the first main meal of the day.

    While you are taking Amaryl, stay on your diet and exercise program, and check your blood sugar regularly as directed by your healthcare provider.

  • What should I avoid while taking this medication?

    Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in other tasks requiring alertness until you know how Amaryl affects you.

  • What are the possible food and drug interactions associated with this medication?

    If Amaryl is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Amaryl may interact with numerous medications. Therefore, it is very important that you tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking.

  • May I receive this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

    The effects of Amaryl during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What should I do if I miss a dose of this medication?

    If you miss a dose of Amaryl, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

  • How should I store this medication?

    Store at room temperature.

Meet the Pharmacists

I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!

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