What is Amaryl?
Amaryl is a prescription diabetes medication that assists in controlling the blood sugar level.Amaryl can be used in conjunction with diet and exercise to help improve blood sugar control for adults suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Amaryl is not a remedy meant to treat type 1 diabetes.Other diabetes medications, such as insulin, can be used with Amaryl in the event of need.
Warnings
You shouldn't make use of Amaryl if you suffer from diabetes ketoacidosis (call your physician to inquire about the treatment using insulin).Before you start taking Amaryl, inform your physician whether you're allergic to sulfa medications, if you suffer from liver disease, heart disease, kidney disease, the deficiency of enzymes (G6PD), pituitary gland or adrenal problems, or if you're insufficiently nourished.Make sure you don't let your blood sugar go too low. Blood sugar levels are low (hypoglycemia), which is possible if you do not eat or exercise too much, drink alcohol, or are under stress. The symptoms include hunger, headaches, weakness, sweating, irritability, tremors, or difficulty staying focused. Keep a bag of hard candy or glucose tablets to help if you are suffering from insufficient blood sugar. Other sources of sugar include milk and orange juice. Make sure that your family members and friends know how to assist you in the event of an emergency.
Prior to use this drug
Do not take Amaryl in the event that you are allergic to glimepiride or sulphonamides or if you suffer from
- An allergy to sulfa-based drugs an allergy to sulfa drugs
- Diabetes ketoacidosis (call your doctor to seek treatment)
To ensure that amaryl is safe for you, ask your doctor if you have previously had:
- Heart disease;
- Kidney or liver disease
- An enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (g6pd).
Amaryl could increase your chances of developing serious heart problems. However, not taking care of your diabetes could also harm your heart as well as other organs. Discuss with your physician the potential dangers and advantages of the medication.Follow the instructions of your physician about the use of Amaryl if you're expecting or are planning to be pregnant. Controlling diabetes is essential during pregnancy. Having high blood sugar can cause problems for both the mother and the child. You may have to discontinue using Amaryl for a brief period prior to your due date.The same glimepiride-like medications have resulted in extreme hyperglycemia in infants whose mothers took the medication at the time of birth. If you are taking glimepiride during your pregnancy, stop taking this medication at least two weeks before the due date.If you are breastfeeding during treatment with glimepiride, Call the doctor in case your infant exhibits symptoms of hypoglycemia (extreme fatigue, vomiting, skin mottling, or swollen lips, jittery or cold sensations, or having seizures).Amaryl is not recommended for use by anyone less than 18 years old.
Similar or related drugs
Ozempic, Mounjaro, metformin, Trulicity, Lantus, Victoza, and Levemir
How to take Amaryl?
Consume Amaryl exactly as directed by your physician. Follow the instructions on the prescription label and go through all medication guides and instructions sheets. Your doctor may alter your dosage.Amaryl is generally taken twice each day at breakfast or at the beginning of the main dinner in the morning. Follow the directions of your physician. You should take the tablet along with a bottle of fluid.Your blood sugar levels will need to be monitored regularly, and you might require additional blood tests in the doctor's office.It is possible to suffer from insufficient glucose levels (hypoglycemia) and feel extremely hungry, dizzy, angry, and anxious. You may also feel confused, anxious, or even shaky. To treat hypoglycemia quickly, consume or drink sugar that is fast-acting (fruit juice crackers, hard candy or raisins, or other non-diabetic sodas).Your physician may recommend the use of a glucagon injection kit if you suffer from severe hypoglycemia. It is important that your family or friends are aware of how to administer the injection in an emergency.The blood sugar levels may change due to stress or illness, surgical procedures, exercise, alcohol consumption, or eating infrequently. Talk to your physician before making changes to your medication or dosage schedule.Amaryl is only a part of a treatment plan that could also include exercise, diet, the control of weight and blood sugar, and medical treatment. Follow the directions of your doctor carefully.Keep it at room temperature, free of heat and moisture.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Diabetes Type 2:
Initial dose: 1–2 mg taken orally at least once per day.
Maintenance dosage: Increase by increments of 1 or 2 mg, not more frequently than once every 1 or 2 weeks, based on the glycemic response.
Maximum dose: 8 mg per day.
Comments:
Administration begins with breakfast, or the first primary meal in the morning.
Patients at a higher risk of developing hypoglycemia should begin with 1 mg taken orally, once every day, and gradually increase the dose.
If patients are transferred to this drug from a higher half-life sulfonylurea that has a lower half-life, it may take up to two weeks to detect any overlap effects of the drug.
Use as an adjunct to exercise and diet to increase glycemic control in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Usual Geriatric Dose for Diabetes Type 2:
Initial dose: 1 mg taken orally at least once per day; increase gradually and keep track of closely
Usual Paediatric Dose for Diabetes Type 2:
Not recommended due to adverse consequences for weight loss and the effects of hypoglycemia.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take the medication as quickly as you can. However, avoid your missed dosage if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't have two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention immediately, or contact us for help at the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. An amaryl overdose could cause the life-threatening condition of hypoglycemia.The symptoms of severe hypoglycemia are extreme weakness as well as tremors, confusion, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and trouble speaking. sickness, vomiting, and rapid breathing. They may also experience the feeling of fainting and seizures (convulsions).
What should be avoided?
Beware of drinking alcohol. It reduces blood sugar levels and can interfere with treatment for diabetes.Avoid exposure to the sun as well as tanning areas. Glimepiride could make you more susceptible to sunburn. Protect yourself with protective clothes and sunscreen (SPF 30 or greater) while you're outdoors.
Side effects of Amaryl
See a doctor immediately when you notice symptoms or warnings of an allergic reaction (hives and breathing difficulties or swelling in your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever and sore throat, burnt eyes, irritation, or an ailment that is purple or red and blisters and peels).
Contact your doctor immediately in the event that you are suffering from:
- Skin that is pale, yellowed, or sallow; dark-coloured urine;
- Insecurity, confusion,
Common amaryl side effects can include:
- Headache;
- Dizziness, weakness;
- Nausea;
- Low blood sugar.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could be present. Contact your doctor to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any symptoms to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs
Amaryl may not function in the same way if you take other medications at the same time. Certain drugs may affect the blood levels of other drugs you are taking, which could create side effects or render the medication less effective.If you are also taking colesevelam, then ensure you are taking your Amaryl dosage at least four hours prior to the time you start taking colesevelam.Other drugs can be incompatible with glimepiride, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about your current medications as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.
