Generic name:glipizide (oral route) [ GLIP-i-zide ]
Drug class:Sulfonylureas
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 11, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Glucotrol
- Glucotrol XL
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet, Extended Release
- Tablet
Therapeutic Class: Hypoglycemic
Chemical Class: 2nd Generation Sulfonylurea
Uses for Glucotrol XL
Glipizide is used to treat high blood sugar levels caused by a type of diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes) called type 2 diabetes. In type 2 diabetes, your body does not work properly to store excess sugar and the sugar remains in your bloodstream. Chronic high blood sugar can lead to serious health problems in the future.
Proper diet is the first step in managing type 2 diabetes, but often medicines are needed to help your body. Glipizide belongs to a class of drugs called sulfonylureas. It stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, directing your body to store blood sugar. This helps lower blood sugar and restore the way you use food to make energy.
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using Glucotrol XL
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of glipizide in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of glipizide in t...
