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antidiabetics-oral

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GENERIC NAME: ANTIDIABETICS - ORAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication is used in the treatment of diabetes. Controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, circulation problems, and blindness.

HOW TO USE: May be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication at the same time(s) each day in order to maintain a constant blood level. Monitor blood glucose levels on a regular basis while taking this medication. This medication must be used along with a proper diet and an exercise program.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea or vomiting may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if you develop: itchy skin, dark urine, fever, sore throat, swelling of the hands or feet, unusual bleeding or bruising. This medication can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, shaking, rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting. If you experience these symptoms, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, orange juice, honey, non-diet soda. Tell your doctor about the reaction. To help prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. This medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, any allergies. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication. It can cause facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, dizziness or stomach pain. This medication may make you prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen if needed. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Insulin therapy may be necessary during pregnancy. Certain oral antidiabetic medications are excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.