CHLORPROPAMIDE - ORAL (Diabinese) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: CHLORPROPAMIDE - ORAL (klor-PROE-pah-mide)

BRAND NAME(S): Diabinese

USES: Chlorpropamide is used along with a proper diet and exercise program to control high blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes (non-insulin-dependent diabetes). Effectively controlling high blood sugar helps prevent heart disease, strokes, kidney disease, blindness, and circulation problems, as well as sexual function problems (impotence). Chlorpropamide belongs to the class of drugs known as sulfonylureas. It works by stimulating the release of your body's natural insulin, thereby lowering your blood sugar.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with breakfast, or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: sun sensitivity, skin changes (e.g., darkening, thickening), unusual fatigue, fast/pounding heartbeat, easy bruising/bleeding, mental/mood changes, sudden weight gain, swelling of the hands/feet, muscle weakness/spasm, painful bowel movements, bloody or black stools. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes or skin, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), seizures. This medication can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This effect may occur if you do not consume enough calories (from food, juices, fruit, etc.). The symptoms include chills, cold sweat, blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, shaking, rapid heart rate, weakness, headache, fainting, tingling of the hands or feet, or hunger. It is a good habit to carry glucose tablets or gel to treat low blood sugar. If you are in a situation where you don't have these reliable forms of glucose, eat a quick source of sugar such as table sugar, honey, or candy, or drink a glass of orange juice or non-diet soda to quickly raise your blood sugar level. Tell your doctor immediately about the reaction. To help prevent hypoglycemia, eat meals on a regular schedule and do not skip meals. Closely monitor your blood sugar levels and eat frequent small meals for at least 3-5 days after an episode of hypoglycemia with chlorpropamide because this drug has a long effect in your body. Consult your doctor for further instructions. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about what you should do if you miss a meal. Symptoms of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) include thirst, increased urination, confusion, drowsiness, flushing, rapid breathing, or fruity breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor immediately. Your medication dosage may need to be increased. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.